LONDON: Saudi Arabia and Bahrain nationals have been given electronic visa waiver status by the UK, the Home Office has said in a statement. 

The status will be effective from June 1 and under this new amendment, all Saudi Arabian and Bahrain nationals can apply to travel to the UK for up to six months with an electronic visa waiver.

Citizens of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain can now travel to the UK without obtaining a visa provided they complete an online waiver for each visit.

“This visa waiver for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will better connect the people of our countries and boost economic prosperity,” said UK Home Secretary Priti Patel.

She added: “The visa improvements announced today will provide greater security for our citizens while making it easier and cheaper for visitors from the Gulf to travel here for leisure and business.”

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said this visa waiver will strengthen the UK’s relationship with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

“Our friendships with both countries are of great importance, built on shared priorities such as trade, investment and security,” said Truss.

The UK’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Neil Crompton, posted a video on Twitter explaining the move.