Saudi Citizens Just Got a Faster Lane Into the United States

Saudi Arabia has joined the US Global Entry trusted-traveler program, according to The National, which reports the country now sits alongside 22 others on the list, including the UAE, Jordan, India and the United Kingdom.

Global Entry lets pre-approved, low-risk travelers clear US customs faster. Members use automated kiosks on arrival, and the program screens applicants’ security backgrounds before they travel. Membership lasts five years and depends on continued compliance, with breaches able to lead to enforcement action including termination.

There is an important limit. Saudi members still need a valid US visa to enter the country, since Global Entry speeds up processing and does not replace entry requirements. Approved members can also use TSA PreCheck on eligible domestic US flights, which can shorten security lines on onward journeys.

Diane Sabatino, CBP’s executive assistant commissioner for Field Operations, said travel should build bridges. The announcement arrives while US officials warn of security concerns in Saudi Arabia and many airlines have limited service there, so how quickly it helps travelers is still to be seen.

Sources: The National, Wego