According Saudi General Sports Authority, Saudi Arabia will open up its borders to fans of live sport, music and culture for the first time with the launch of a new online visa process dedicated to welcoming international tourists. The new visa process platform known as ‘Sharek’ will be introduced for the inaugural Saudia Ad Diriyah E Prix being staged at a stunning UNESCO heritage site on the outskirts of Riyadh on December 15.

The historical city of Ad Diriyah, the first seat of power for Saudi Kings, will come alive by hosting the biggest festival of car racing, live music and entertainment. The first-of-its-kind event will be held over three days during which international superstars will entertain fans.

The announcement took place at a press conference and it was attended by Formula E stars Felipe Massa, Susie Wolff andAndré Lotterer.

Sharek was launched as part of the country’s Vision 2030, strategy for the future, spearheaded by H.H. Mohammed bin Salman. Organisers expressed hope that a large number of international fans would take advantage of the facility to travel to the Kingdom to witness Formula E’s Middle East debut, as well as Gen2 cars for the start of Season V.

The Ad Diriyah E Prix will be the first-time foreign travellers can access Saudi Arabia in such a fast and uncomplicated process as it opens its doors to sports tourism.
The Kingdom’s commitment to tourism, a cornerstone of Vision 2030, and the importance of Formula E on the sporting, social and business calendar of the region, were underscored by the announcement that Saudi Arabian Airlines is the new official airline of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship and the race title partner.