Unprecedented Increase in US Visas to Saudis after Decade of Prohibition

The United States, a decade after Al Qaeda strikes in New York and Washington, has opened its doors to Saudi nationals.

The World Tribune reported that diplomats said the administration of President Barack Obama has removed most restrictions on the entry of Saudis to the United States. They said the percentage of visa approvals for Saudis has reached unprecedented levels.
Joseph Hood, US consul-general in the Saudi city of Dhahran, said “The United States aims to raise the number of visas that it issues annually, particularly to Saudi nationals, who represent an important group”.
Hood cited economic reasons for the easing of restrictions on Saudis. He said Saudi businessmen and students have been allowed to enter the United States in record numbers, with a 60 percent increase since 2010.
About 15,000 Americans were reported to be based in Saudi Arabia’s oil-rich Eastern Province.
The administration decision came amid a series of incidents in which Saudis were implicated in criminal and security offenses.