The key facts
- Saudi Arabia has joined the Global Entry program, becoming the 23rd country on the list
- Members undergo automated customs clearance upon arrival in the US and gain access to TSA PreCheck for domestic flights
- A valid US visa is still required for entry; membership lasts for five years
What has changed
Saudi Arabia has been added to the Global Entry list — a US program that expedites customs clearance for pre-vetted, low-risk travelers. The US Customs and Border Protection described this decision as a 'significant step' in strengthening cooperation between Washington and Riyadh in the fields of travel, trade, and security. According to The National, the kingdom has become the 23rd country on the list, which already includes the UAE, Jordan, India, and the United Kingdom.
What this offers participants
Global Entry is a US government program that verifies applicants' backgrounds before travel and allows approved passengers to clear arrival procedures through automated kiosks instead of long queues and paper-based processing. For Saudi participants, this means faster arrival at US airports and access to TSA PreCheck on eligible domestic flights, featuring a simplified screening process. However, membership does not replace a visa: a valid US visa is still required for entry into the United States.
Membership conditions
Membership in the program is valid for five years, provided all requirements are continuously met. According to Customs and Border Protection, violation of the terms will result in 'appropriate enforcement actions, including termination of membership.' Diane Sabatino, Executive Assistant to the Commissioner of Field Operations, emphasized: 'Travel should build bridges. By extending Global Entry eligibility to citizens of Saudi Arabia, we are making international travel more convenient for trusted travelers while strengthening cooperation between our countries.'
