eDreams review: Unexpected transit visa request

REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF TRANSIT VISA EXPENSES

On December 12, 2023, I undertook a journey from Abu Dhabi (UAE) to Rome (Italy), transiting through Dammam (KSA). My eDreams booking reference is [protected], and airline booking reference is

GNT25R, UHX7LF, AGVEKJ.

The initial leg of the trip, EY327, operated by Etihad, proceeded without any issues. Upon arrival in Dammam, I was informed that a transit visa was mandatory for my onward journey to Rome.

Before my journey, I had verified the visa requirements for KSA on the IATA website, specifically under “TWOV (Transit Without Visa).” According to the information available, passengers transiting through

Dammam (DMM), Jeddah (JED), Medina (MED), or Riyadh (RUH) with a confirmed onward ticket for a flight to a third country within 12 hours were exempt from the need for a visa, provided they stayed

within the airport’s international transit area and had the necessary documents for their next destination.

Surprisingly, it was communicated to me that only passengers flying with Wizz Air were subject to this visa requirement due to the airline’s alleged non-payment of ground taxes. Consequently, I was compelled to purchase a transit visa for 480.00 SAR (approximately 119.00 euros) to continue my journey.

Faced with this unexpected expense, I approached the Wizz Air check-in desk and expressed my dissatisfaction with the situation. They confirmed that they routinely address such issues daily.

Moreover, I received no information from Wizz Air or eDreams about additional transiting visa requirements before traveling. I don't understand why eDreams sells combined tickets without providing the necessary visa information or services.

I appreciate any assistance you can offer,

Kind regards,

Elzbieta Mironowicz

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