Saudi Arabia plans to issue tourist visas for travellers from 65 countries as part of a new programme, a report said quoting a senior official.

The initiative, which will help steer the kingdom's economy away from its oil dependence, targets four categories: pilgrims and visitors, Muslim business visitors, government guests and Muslim transit passengers, said a report in Saudi Gazette.

A total of 13 historic locations and 10 museums have been selected as part of the tourism package.

Khalid Tahir, director of Saudi Arabia Muslims’ Destination initiative, said the aim is to serve pilgrims and visitors and achieve the Vision 2030 in increasing the number of pilgrims, enhance private sector contribution to tourism, cooperate with the public sector to develop infrastructure and highlight the historic heritage of the Kingdom.

The Saudi Arabia Muslims’ Destination initiative will also allow pilgrims to extend Umrah packages, the report said.