Sri Lanka is set to offer a free visa on arrival to travelers from seven select countries. The decision, which has garnered widespread attention, is expected to play a pivotal role in increasing the country's tourist arrival targets by at least 10%, according to the President of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL).

The Sri Lankan Cabinet recently gave the green light to this pioneering initiative, marking a turning point in the nation's efforts to revitalize its tourism industry. The project is scheduled to be implemented until March 31, with the goal of enhancing Sri Lanka's appeal as a prime tourism destination.

The primary beneficiaries of this visa-free access are tourists from seven countries: India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. These nations represent a significant portion of Sri Lanka's potential tourism market and have been specifically chosen to make traveling to the island nation more accessible and convenient.

The move is seen as a strategic effort to revitalize the tourism industry, which has faced challenges in recent years due to various factors, including the global pandemic. Sri Lanka boasts an array of attractions, from pristine beaches to cultural heritage sites, lush forests, and vibrant cities, making it an enticing destination for travelers from around the world.