The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan

1 October 2025
Abdulshakoor Alarosi
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan for Saudi Citizens and Residents

Introduction

Kazakhstan, the largest country in Central Asia, is a unique destination that combines breathtaking natural landscapes, snow-covered mountains, vast steppes, turquoise lakes, and a rich cultural heritage shaped by Turkic, Islamic, and Russian influences.

At Selah Plus, we believe traveling is more than just moving from one place to another – it is an unforgettable experience. That is why we have prepared this comprehensive guide for Saudi citizens and residents who are planning to explore Kazakhstan.

1. Visa Requirements for Saudi Travelers

For Saudi Citizens

  • Saudi nationals can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days, thanks to the bilateral agreement between the two countries.
  • For longer stays, an official visa application is required through the Kazakh Embassy or the e-visa platform.

For Residents in Saudi Arabia (Non-Saudis)

  • Requirements depend on nationality.
  • Most Arab and Asian expats need a visa in advance.
  • An e-visa (E-Visa) is available online through the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Main requirements:
  • A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
  • Recent passport photo.
  • Hotel booking or invitation letter from a Kazakh travel agency (Selah Plus can arrange this).
  • Return flight ticket.

2. Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

  • Spring (April – June): Perfect for nature lovers, colorful flowers, and green steppes.
  • Summer (July – August): Ideal for mountain adventures and lake trips, such as Kaindy Lake and Big Almaty Lake.
  • Winter (December – February): The best season for snow and skiing, especially at the famous Shymbulak Ski Resort near Almaty.

3. Top Cities and Attractions

Almaty (former capital & main tourist hub)

  • Medeu Ice Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort.
  • Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest.
  • The bustling Green Bazaar for local shopping.

Astana (Nur-Sultan – current capital)

  • Bayterek Tower (symbol of Kazakhstan).
  • Hazrat Sultan Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia.
  • Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center.

Shymkent & Turkistan (southern Kazakhstan)

  • Turkistan: Home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Shymkent: Known for its markets, history, and hospitality.

4. Kazakh Cuisine

  • Beshbarmak: The national dish made with boiled meat and flat noodles.
  • Shashlik: Grilled skewered meat, a Central Asian favorite.
  • Kumis: A traditional drink made from fermented mare’s milk, often offered to guests.

5. Accommodation Options

  • 5-Star Hotels: International chains such as Ritz Carlton, Hilton, and Marriott in Almaty and Astana (luxury comfort).
  • Serviced Apartments: Great for families or long stays.
  • Mountain Resorts: For a unique natural retreat experience.
  • Selah Plus provides hotel booking services at competitive rates, often combined with transport and tour packages.

6. Transportation

  • Flights: Direct connections from Riyadh and Jeddah to Almaty via Flynas or Air Astana.
  • Within Cities: Taxis, ride-hailing apps (Yandex Go, Uber), or luxury chauffeur services through Selah Plus.
  • Between Cities: Comfortable domestic flights or trains (affordable and scenic).

7. Travel Tips for Saudis and Residents

  1. Always pack warm clothes, even in summer, as weather can change quickly.
  2. Exchange rate is favorable; credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted.
  3. Locals are welcoming. Russian and Kazakh are the main languages, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  4. To ensure comfort, it is best to use a trusted travel agency such as Selah Plus for bookings and guided tours.

Conclusion

Kazakhstan is an ideal destination for Saudi citizens and residents – whether you seek stunning landscapes, cool weather, or rich Islamic heritage.

With Selah Plus offering visa support, hotel bookings, flight reservations, and chauffeur-driven transport, your journey to Kazakhstan will be seamless and memorable.