I was at the Embassy in Riyadh today for a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa, which I had gotten there in the past. The clerk asked for my flight information. I said it's right there. He says 'No, for the 2nd trip.'

That took me by surprise. Who books months ahead ? Anyway, he wouldn't budge, so I walked out with a receipt for a Single Entry. Not a major problem, I just wasn't expecting that and it's a 3 hour drive to Riyadh.

 

Is this a new rule ? 

I have commented in the past that I find it bizarre that the consulates feel the need to verify that those applying for visas have the intention of using them. I would be grateful if someone would tell me the damage Thailand would experience if someone really wanted a Thai visa in their passport, but never actually used it.

22 hours ago, bobonzo said:

Is this a new rule ? 

In Riyadh, evidently.  Each consulate makes up its own rules on the fly - and these can vary by the day.