Saudi Transit from and to Sudan

[achim-in-jordan]

While most travellers transiting Saudi these days come from Iran through the UAE and continue to Sudan via the Jeddah - Suakin ferry, this information might prove useful: The Saudi embassy in Amman issues Saudi transit visa only for continuing the trip to the Gulf states or Yemen, but NOT to Sudan! They claim that there exists a bilateral agreement between Jordan and Saudi Arabia with regard to this.

Since there has been other similar information concerning the Saudi embassy in Khartumon on this, this might develop into just another dead end street in the region. Too bad!

Greetings
Achim

[martheijnens]

Hi Achim,

Can you tell me: does the Saudi embassy in Amman issues transit visa to the gulf states for motorbikers? I was informed the saudis don't want motorbikes at all, only cars.

Thanks for your response,

Mathew

[achim-in-jordan]

Hi there,

Unfortunately, I can not say much more than what I wrote. The first guy in the consulate (in traditional Saudi dressing - if you happen to be there) was uncompromising and others told us he is not up for a smile. The second (in a suit) spoke English reasonably well and explained the situation as described above.

From what I heard in Khartoum, it seems still to be OK there. Hope that somebody can confirm again from very recent experience!

Greetings,
Achim

[Endurorally]

Sudan accepts right hand drive cars, no issue on the London to Cape Town, and we all had carnets. There were various import taxes to pay for on arrival after crossing the Red Sea to Saudi, and 50 cars rather overwhelmed them. Saudi transit visas are not available from London, everyone had to get a business visa upfront before departure, which is not easy as permission from a host in Saudi (in our case the motor-club) was needed.

[brennan]

Can someone please comment on visas for BIKES!!!!!

[brennan]

Originally Posted by brennan

Can someone please comment on visas for BIKES!!!!!

Thanks for the comment on the other thread RoamingYak. Much appreciated.