Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa (eVisa)

The Saudi tourist eVisa is one of the simplest travel visas in the Middle East. Introduced in September 2019, it replaced the old system where tourists needed an invitation letter, a travel agent, or an embassy visit. Today, the entire process is online and takes minutes.

The eVisa is electronically linked to your passport. When you arrive at a Saudi airport, immigration officers scan your passport and the visa appears in their system automatically. You do not need a printed copy, although it is wise to keep one as a backup. The 90-day total stay limit means you can split your visits however you like within the 1-year validity - for example, three 30-day trips or one 60-day and one 30-day trip.

As of 2026, citizens of 49+ countries can apply for the Saudi tourist eVisa online. The list has expanded significantly since the program launched in 2019, and Saudi Arabia continues to add new nationalities. Here are some of the eligible countries:

This is a partial list. The full list includes most European Union member states, several Southeast Asian nations, and a growing number of countries from other regions. Saudi Arabia's tourism authority regularly updates the eligible country list on the official Visit Saudi website.

If your nationality is not on the list

Citizens of countries not eligible for the eVisa can still visit Saudi Arabia through alternative routes:

• Embassy visa: Apply through the Saudi embassy or consulate in your country. This is a traditional visa application with more documentation requirements and longer processing times (2-4 weeks).
• Sponsor-based visit visa: A Saudi citizen, resident, or company can sponsor your visit. The sponsor applies through Absher or Muqeem and you receive a visa number to present at the embassy.
• US, UK, or Schengen visa holders: If you hold a valid visa or residency from the US, UK, or Schengen area, you may be eligible for a visa on arrival regardless of your nationality. Check the latest rules on the Visit Saudi portal.
• Transit visa: If you are transiting through Saudi Arabia to another destination, you may be eligible for a free transit visa (up to 96 hours) through Saudi Airlines (Saudia) or other participating carriers.

The application process is straightforward and entirely online. You do not need to visit an embassy, submit physical documents, or use a travel agent. Here is the complete process:

The document requirements for the Saudi tourist eVisa are deliberately minimal. Saudi Arabia designed the system to attract more tourists, and they removed most of the bureaucratic hurdles that other countries still require. Here is what you need:

For the eVisa application

1. Valid passport - Must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your planned entry date. The passport must be in good condition with at least one blank page.
2. Digital photograph - A recent passport-sized photo with a white background. Can be taken with a smartphone if lighting is good.
3. Email address - A valid email where you will receive the eVisa confirmation and PDF.
4. Payment method - Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit or debit card for the 300 SAR fee.

Recommended (not required for application, but useful)

• Return flight ticket - Not required for the eVisa application, but immigration officers may ask to see proof of onward travel at the border.
• Hotel reservation - You enter accommodation details during the application. Having a confirmed booking helps, but the system accepts hotel names without booking references.
• Travel insurance - Basic medical insurance is included in the eVisa fee. If you want more comprehensive coverage (trip cancellation, luggage loss, etc.), purchase separate travel insurance.

What you do NOT need

Unlike many countries, Saudi Arabia does not require any of the following for tourist eVisa applicants:

• Bank statements or proof of financial means
• Employment letter or proof of income
• Invitation letter from someone in Saudi Arabia
• Embassy or consulate visit
• Biometric data collection before travel
• Travel itinerary or detailed trip plan

In addition to the online eVisa, Saudi Arabia offers a visa on arrival option at international airports. This is essentially the same visa as the eVisa but obtained at the immigration counter when you land. The cost, validity, and conditions are identical.

How visa on arrival works

When you arrive at a Saudi airport (Riyadh King Khalid, Jeddah King Abdulaziz, Dammam King Fahd, or other international airports), proceed to the immigration counter. Present your passport, and the officer will process your visa application on the spot. You pay the 300 SAR fee by card and receive an electronic visa linked to your passport.

eVisa online vs visa on arrival

US/UK/Schengen visa holders

There is a special provision for citizens of non-eligible eVisa countries who hold a valid visa or residency permit from the United States, United Kingdom, or a Schengen-area country. These travelers may be eligible for visa on arrival at Saudi airports. This provision has expanded the number of people who can visit Saudi Arabia significantly. Check the Visit Saudi portal for the latest rules, as this policy is updated periodically.

The Saudi tourist visa permits a wide range of activities, but it is important to understand the boundaries. Violating visa conditions can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

Permitted activities

• Tourism and sightseeing - Visit historical sites, museums, natural landscapes, and cities across the country
• Umrah - Perform Umrah in Mecca at any time outside the Hajj season (see the Umrah section below for details)
• Visiting family and friends - Stay with relatives or friends who live in Saudi Arabia
• Events and entertainment - Attend concerts, sports events, Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, Formula 1, and other festivals
• Business meetings - Attend meetings, conferences, and exhibitions (but no paid work)
• Transit - Use Saudi Arabia as a stopover to another destination
• Religious tourism - Visit mosques, Mecca, Medina, and other religious sites
• Recreational activities - Diving in the Red Sea, desert safaris, camping, and outdoor sports

Not permitted

• Employment or paid work - Any form of employment, freelancing, or receiving payment for services is strictly prohibited. Fines reach up to 100,000 SAR.
• Performing Hajj - Tourist visa holders cannot perform Hajj. A separate Hajj visa is required, issued only during the Hajj season through authorized agents.
• Studying - Enrolling in educational institutions requires a student visa.
• Overstaying - Staying beyond 90 days total incurs fines of 100 SAR per day. Serious overstaying leads to deportation and a re-entry ban.
• Commercial activities - Trading, selling goods, or conducting commercial business requires a commercial visa.
• Applying for residency - You cannot convert a tourist visa into a work visa or Iqama while in Saudi Arabia. You must exit and apply through proper channels.

One of the most significant changes since 2019 is that tourist visa holders can now perform Umrah. Previously, a separate Umrah visa was required, which involved booking through authorized travel agents and paying higher fees. Now, you can perform Umrah with your regular tourist eVisa.

What you need to know

• You can perform Umrah at any time of the year except during the Hajj season (specific dates in the month of Dhul Hijjah)
• During Hajj season, tourist visa holders cannot enter Mecca at all
• You must book an Umrah permit through the Nusuk or Tawakkalna app before visiting the Haram
• There is no additional fee for the Umrah permit - it is free
• You can visit both Mecca and Medina, and pray at the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) in Medina without restriction

Practical tips for Umrah on a tourist visa

If performing Umrah is part of your trip, plan your itinerary so that Mecca and Medina are included. Many tourists combine Umrah with visits to Jeddah (the nearest major city to Mecca, about 50 miles / 80 km away) and Taif (a mountain city near Mecca known for its pleasant climate). The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah, making it easy to travel between these cities.

Saudi Arabia has modernized rapidly, but it remains a conservative country with laws rooted in Islamic principles. Understanding and respecting these rules is essential for a smooth visit. Most rules are common sense, and tourists who are respectful rarely encounter any issues.

Alcohol and drugs

Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout Saudi Arabia. You cannot bring alcohol into the country, purchase it, or consume it anywhere - including in hotels. There are no exceptions for tourists. Penalties for alcohol violations include fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Drug laws are among the strictest in the world. Drug trafficking carries the death penalty. Even small amounts of recreational drugs can result in years of imprisonment. Do not bring any controlled substances into the country, including some medications that may be legal in your home country. Check with the Saudi embassy if you take prescription medication.

Dress code

Saudi Arabia has significantly relaxed its dress code for tourists. Women are no longer required to wear an abaya (the traditional black robe) in most public places. However, modest dress is expected. Men should wear long trousers and shirts in public - shorts are acceptable in tourist areas, resorts, and malls. Women should cover shoulders and knees in public areas. At religious sites (mosques, Mecca, Medina), stricter dress codes apply - women should cover their hair and wear loose, full-length clothing. Swimwear is perfectly acceptable at hotel pools, private beaches, and resorts.

Photography

Taking photos of tourist sites, landscapes, and cities is fine. However, do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or security checkpoints. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. In some traditional areas, photography of locals is considered rude without consent.

Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. As a tourist, you are not required to fast, but you should not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours out of respect. Hotels and some restaurants serve food to non-fasting guests in designated areas. Ramadan is actually a fascinating time to visit - the evening iftar (breaking of fast) celebrations are vibrant, and many attractions have special Ramadan programming.

General conduct

• Public displays of affection (even between married couples) should be kept minimal
• Respect prayer times - many shops and restaurants close briefly during the five daily prayers
• Profanity and offensive gestures are taken more seriously than in Western countries
• Same-sex relationships are illegal in Saudi Arabia
• Importing religious materials for proselytizing is prohibited

Saudi Arabia is a vast country with diverse landscapes and a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Here are the must-visit destinations that most tourists include in their itineraries:

AlUla

The crown jewel of Saudi tourism. AlUla is home to Hegra (Madain Saleh), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site - a 2,000-year-old Nabatean city with rock-cut tombs similar to Petra in Jordan but far less crowded. The surrounding desert landscape features stunning sandstone formations, ancient rock art, and the old town of AlUla with its mud-brick buildings. AlUla also hosts international cultural events and has luxury desert resorts.

Riyadh

The capital city blends ultra-modern architecture with traditional culture. Visit the Kingdom Centre Tower for skyline views, explore the historic Diriyah district (another UNESCO site and birthplace of the Saudi state), and experience the bustling Riyadh Seasonentertainment festival (October-March). The National Museum offers an excellent overview of Arabian history. Riyadh is also the best city for shopping, dining, and experiencing Saudi Arabia's rapid modernization.

Jeddah

Saudi Arabia's most cosmopolitan city, located on the Red Sea coast. The Al-Balad historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Ottoman-era coral-stone buildings, traditional souks, and vibrant street art. Jeddah has a thriving food scene, the scenic Corniche waterfront, and world-class diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea. It is also the gateway to Mecca (50 miles / 80 km away) for those performing Umrah.

Red Sea coast

The Red Sea coastline offers some of the world's best coral reefs and marine life. The NEOM region in the northwest and the Red Sea Global resort developments in the central coast are creating world-class beach and diving destinations. Existing dive sites near Jeddah, Yanbu, and the Farasan Islands are already popular with experienced divers. Water sports including snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips are widely available.

The Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)

A dramatic cliff formation about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of Riyadh, offering breathtaking views of an ancient seabed stretching to the horizon. Popular for day trips from Riyadh, hiking, and sunset watching. Accessible by 4x4 vehicle - most tourists book a guided tour from Riyadh.

Mecca and Medina

The holiest cities in Islam. Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca - the city is restricted to Muslims only, and checkpoints enforce this. Medina is partially accessible to non-Muslims (the city itself), but the Prophet's Mosque area has similar restrictions. For Muslim tourists, visiting these cities is often the highlight of a Saudi trip. See the Umrah section above.

Currency and payments

The Saudi currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), pegged to the US Dollar at 3.75 SAR = $1 USD. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including small shops, taxis, and street vendors. Apple Pay and mada (the Saudi debit card system) are widely used. ATMs are abundant. You rarely need cash, but it is useful for small purchases in traditional souks.

Transportation

Ride-hailing apps (Uber and the local app Careem) are the most convenient way to get around cities. They are affordable, reliable, and available in all major cities. For intercity travel, domestic flights are cheap and frequent (Saudia, flynas, flyadeal). The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Mecca, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City. Car rental is available but note that traffic in Riyadh and Jeddah can be intense.

Climate and when to visit

Saudi Arabia is hot. Summer temperatures (June-September) exceed 113°F (45°C) in most cities and the desert. The best time to visit is October to March when temperatures are pleasant (68-86°F / 20-30°C). Riyadh can get cold at night in winter (below 50°F / 10°C). The Red Sea coast and Jeddah are warm year-round. If visiting in summer, plan indoor activities during midday and explore in the early morning or evening.

SIM card and internet

Purchase a local SIM card at the airport on arrival. STC, Mobily, and Zain are the main providers. A tourist SIM with data (10-20 GB) costs about 50-100 SAR and is essential for ride-hailing apps, navigation, and the Tawakkalna app (which you may need for some government services). Free WiFi is available in most hotels, malls, and restaurants.

Apps to download before your trip

• Tawakkalna - Saudi Arabia's government services super-app. May be needed for some attractions and services.
• Nusuk - Required for booking Umrah permits and visiting the Haram in Mecca.
• Uber / Careem - For ride-hailing and transportation.
• Google Maps - Navigation works well across Saudi Arabia.
• HungerStation / Jahez - Food delivery apps popular in Saudi Arabia.

Emergency numbers

• 911 - Police
• 997 - Ambulance
• 998 - Fire department
• 920022220 - Tourist helpline (Ministry of Tourism)