Frequently Asked Questions

Saudi Arabia Entry Policy Details

What is the Entry Procedure of Saudi Arabia?  

The entry policy of Saudi Arabia varies depending on the purpose of the visit and the traveler’s nationality. Saudi Arabia requires all foreign visitors to possess a valid passport and an appropriate Saudi visa to enter the country unless they are from a visa-exempt country. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the country.  

Additionally, visitors must ensure that their passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Regarding currency restrictions, travelers entering or exiting Saudi Arabia must declare any amount of cash over 60,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately 16,000 USD). It is also important to note that Saudi Arabia has strict customs regulations, and visitors are advised to familiarize themselves with the country’s rules and regulations before traveling. This may include restrictions on certain medications, food items, and other goods.  

Depending on the purpose of their visit, travelers may be required to provide additional documentation or undergo further screening, such as a medical examination or security clearance. Once cleared, travelers can enter the country and proceed to their intended destination. However, it is important to note that Saudi Arabia has strict laws and customs, and visitors are expected to respect and adhere to them during their stay.  

However, some general procedures apply to most visitors:  

1. All visitors to the country must obtain a Saudi Arabia visa before arrival, either through an embassy or consulate or online.  
2. Depending on the purpose of the visit, some travelers may be required to provide additional documents, such as a business visa or work permit.  
3. It is important to note that entry requirements and procedures are subject to change, and travelers should check with the Saudi embassy or consulate in their country for the most up-to-date information.  

Currently, travelers are advised to exercise a high level of caution regarding security.  

Travel Alert  

Travel within fifty miles of the Saudi-Yemen border is not recommended. The Eastern Province’s northern border and the area between Hafr Al-Batin and Khafji have been designated off-limits by the Saudi government. Therefore, caution should be exercised when traveling there.  

Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival  

Saudi Arabia currently only offers visas on arrival for some visitors. All visitors must obtain a Saudi Arabia visa before traveling to the country. However, there are a few exceptions:  

1. Visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which include Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa.
2. Visitors with a valid residency permit or visa from a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country can also enter Saudi Arabia without a visa.  
3. Visitors transiting through Saudi Arabia for less than 18 hours and not leaving the airport do not require a visa.  

It is important to note that Saudi Arabia’s entry requirements and visa regulations are subject to change. It is recommended to check with the Saudi embassy or consulate in the home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and procedures. 

Saudi Visa for GCC Residents  

GCC residents, comprising individuals from the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates), enjoy a unique set of advantages when it comes to obtaining a Saudi visa. Being part of the GCC, they benefit from a simplified visa application process and have the option to apply for a visa on arrival or an eVisa online. 

Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, a GCC resident can present their valid passport or national ID card along with proof of their GCC residency to receive a visa. The visa for Saudi Arabia allows for a stay of up to 30 days, enabling them to explore the country or conduct business activities with ease. 

Entry As a Tourist  

To enter Saudi Arabia as a tourist, there are several steps travelers need to follow:  

1. Obtain a Saudi Arabian tourist visa: Travelers can apply for a tourist visa online through the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The visa processing time can take several days to weeks, so it is recommended to apply well before the travel date.  
2. Book Accommodation: Travelers need to provide proof of their accommodation in Saudi Arabia, such as a hotel reservation.  
3. Travel to Saudi Arabia: Once they have obtained the Saudi tourist visa, they can travel to the country.  

It is important to note that tourist visas to visit Saudi Arabia are only valid for a limited time and have specific entry and exit dates, so plan the trip accordingly.  

Entering Saudi Arabia as a Student  

To enter Saudi Arabia as a student, travelers must obtain a student visa from the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate in their home country. They must also provide proof of enrollment in a Saudi educational institution and meet the country’s academic requirements.  

Entering Saudi Arabia as an Employee  

To enter the nation as an employee, travelers must be aware of the Saudi Arabia visa application process. They need to obtain a Saudi work visa and a residency permit. The employer in Saudi Arabia will usually be responsible for sponsoring the visa and obtaining the necessary approvals from the country’s government. Prospective employees will need to provide documents such as their passports, educational certificates, and employment contract.  

They may also need to undergo a medical exam and provide a police clearance certificate from their home country. Once they arrive in Saudi Arabia, they will need to register for their residency permit and obtain a national ID card. The process for obtaining a work visa and residency permit can take several weeks to months.  

Becoming a Resident in Saudi Arabia  

Becoming a resident in Saudi Arabia requires obtaining a residence visa, which allows the holder to live and work in the country for a specific period. The following are the requirements for obtaining a residence visa in Saudi Arabia:  

1. Sponsorship: An individual must have a Saudi Arabian sponsor who is either a citizen or a resident of the country. The sponsor can be an employer, a family member, or a friend.  
2. Employment: If an individual is coming to work in Saudi Arabia, they must obtain a work visa, which is issued by their sponsor. The Saudi work visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed.  
3. Medical Checkup: All visa applicants must undergo a medical checkup to ensure they are free from infectious diseases, including tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.  
4. Criminal Record Check: Applicants must provide a clean criminal record certificate from their home country or any other country they have lived in for the past five years.  
5. Passport: The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in Saudi Arabia.  
6. Photos: The applicant must provide two passport-sized photos.  
7. Visa Fees: Applicants must pay a fee for their residence visa and any other associated fees, such as for medical tests or visa processing.  

Once the residence visa is obtained, the holder can enter the country and apply for a residency permit (Iqama). The Iqama is a crucial document that allows the holder to open bank accounts, obtain a driver’s license, and avail themselves of other services within the country. Business and work visas have different validity periods depending on the applicant’s requirements and the agreement with the employer.  

Overstaying a visa can result in fines, deportation, or a ban from re-entering the country. Hence, it is crucial to respect the visa validity period to avoid complications during the visit to Saudi Arabia. It is essential to note that the visa regulations in Saudi Arabia are subject to change, and it is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities before making travel arrangements.  

What Documents Are Needed to Enter Saudi Arabia?  

The documents needed to enter Saudi Arabia vary depending on their visit’s purpose and nationality. However, here are some general documents that are typically required:  

1. Passport: A valid passport is required for all visitors to enter Saudi Arabia.  
2. Visa: Depending on the nationality and the purpose of the visit, travelers may need to obtain a visa before they can enter Saudi Arabia. This can be obtained through the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate in their home country or online (if travelers are citizens of eligible countries).  
3. Additional documents: Depending on the purpose of the visit, travelers may need to provide other documents such as a work permit, letter of invitation, or educational certificate.  

It is recommended to check the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate in the home country for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and required documents.  

eVisa for Saudi Arabia  

Saudi Arabia introduced eVisa in 2019, making it easier for visitors to obtain a visa for tourism, business, or sporting events. The Saudi Arabia eVisa can be obtained online through the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The process is relatively straightforward and involves filling out an online application, providing supporting documents such as a passport copy and a photograph, and paying the visa fee.  

The eVisa for Saudi Arabia is valid for up to a year and allows for multiple entries. It allows for a stay of up to three months. However, there are restrictions on the length of stay and the activities allowed under the eVisa. It is important to carefully read the visa conditions before applying and to ensure that all entry requirements are met. Overall, the Saudi eVisa has made it easier for visitors to obtain a visa for Saudi Arabia and has helped to promote tourism and business in the country.  

Tourism in Saudi Arabia

Tourism in Saudi Arabia has been growing in recent years as the country has opened up to visitors and started promoting its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.  Some of the top tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia include the ancient city of Mada’in Saleh, the Al-Ula archaeological site, the Red Sea coast, and the modern city of Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia, once elusive to tourists, now welcomes visitors with open arms. Offering diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences, travelers can explore ancient ruins, pristine coastlines, and modern cities. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aims to boost tourism, showcasing its religious landmarks, archaeological sites, and warm Arabian hospitality.

Cuisine of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabian cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices, herbs, and flavors. Traditional dishes include meat and rice dishes, such as Kabsa, which is made with chicken or lamb and flavored with saffron, cardamom, and other spices. Another popular dish is Mandi, which is similar to Kabsa but cooked in a special oven and served with a spicy tomato sauce. 

In addition to meat dishes, Saudi Arabian cuisine also features a variety of vegetarian and seafood options. For example, Foul is a popular breakfast dish made with fava beans, while Sayadiah is a rice dish with fish and spices. Overall, Saudi Arabian cuisine offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that reflects the country’s cultural heritage and influences from the Middle East and beyond.  

Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa (Pilgrimage)  

The Umrah visa is a type of visa that allows Muslims to perform the Umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Unlike the Hajj pilgrimage, which has a specific time and date, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. 

To obtain an Umrah visa, the applicant must be a Muslim and provide proof of their faith, such as a certificate of conversion or a letter from the mosque. They will also need to provide a passport valid for at least six months, a completed application form, and a confirmed travel itinerary. It is recommended to check with the Saudi embassy or consulate in their home country for the most up-to-date information on Umrah visa requirements and procedures.  

Entering Saudi Arabia Unauthorized  

Entering Saudi Arabia without proper authorization is a serious offense and is punishable by law. The Saudi Arabian government takes unauthorized entry into the country very seriously, and those found to have entered the country illegally may face severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. In addition to legal consequences, unauthorized entry into Saudi Arabia can also pose significant risks to personal safety and security.  

Those who enter the country illegally may not have access to necessary resources and services and may be vulnerable to exploitation or abuse. It is important to obtain the proper authorization and follow all entry procedures when entering Saudi Arabia to ensure a safe and legal entry. If travelers have any questions about entry requirements or procedures, it is recommended to contact the Saudi embassy or consulate in their home country for guidance.  

Visa Extension 

In case a traveler needs to extend their stay in the country, they can apply for a visa extension in Saudi Arabia before the current visa expires. To do so, they must visit the local General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) office with relevant documents, such as a valid passport and an extension application form. Timely submission and approval can help the traveler avoid penalties or legal issues associated with overstaying their visa. 

Additional Information 

In Saudi Arabia, customs regulations enforce strict rules on prohibited items. Travelers must ensure their passport meets requirements and carry necessary travel documents. Upon arrival, they follow specific procedures, including providing biometric data. Overstay penalties may apply if visa validity is exceeded. Common visa denial reasons include insufficient documentation or security concerns. Diplomatic and official visas cater to government officials and diplomatic personnel for their official duties. 

Safety Information for Travelers  

Saudi Arabia is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and high levels of security. However, as with any travel destination, there are some safety considerations that visitors should be aware of:  

1. Terrorism: There is a risk of terrorism in Saudi Arabia, particularly from extremist groups. Visitors should stay alert and aware of their surroundings and avoid large gatherings and areas known to be frequented by terrorists.  
2. Traffic: Traffic in Saudi Arabia can be chaotic, and accidents are common. Visitors should take extra precautions when crossing roads and using public transportation.  
3. Weather: Saudi Arabia can experience extreme weather conditions, including sandstorms and heat waves. Visitors should be prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment and stay hydrated.  
4. Dress code: Saudi Arabia has a strict dress code, particularly for women. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly in public places.  

It is also recommended to stay informed of any travel advisories or updates from the government and to register with the embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia for assistance in case of an emergency.

Why Do Foreigners Visit Saudi Arabia?  

Foreigners visit Saudi Arabia for various reasons, including religious pilgrimage, business, tourism, and work. Travelers require Saudi Arabia tourist visa as it helps authorities to ensure proper documentation, maintain border security, and regulate the influx of visitors. Obtaining a visa also helps Saudi authorities track and manage the stay duration of international visitors. 

Saudi Arabia is home to the two holiest sites in Islam, Mecca and Medina. Millions of Muslims worldwide visit these sites yearly for the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has also promoted tourism and attracted foreign visitors to its historical and cultural sites, such as the ancient city of Mada’in Saleh and the Al-Ula archaeological site.  

The country is also home to modern attractions like the Kingdom Tower in Riyadh and the Red Sea Project, a luxury tourism development on the country’s west coast.  In addition to religious and tourism purposes, many foreigners also visit Saudi Arabia for business and work opportunities, as the country is home to many international companies and has a growing economy.