government visit visa saudi arabia

Family Visit Request   //

Skip Navigation Links

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  Service Description

  service beneficiaries,   conditions and requirements.

  • Complete the online form via  Visa services platform ​  and stamp it electronically and authenticate it from the Chamber of Commerce or from the employer.
  • Enter all the data in Arabic except if​ the visitors are not from Arab nationalities, in that case their names should match their passports.
  • For residents, they should have valid for residents.
  • The visitors should be of first degree relatives
  • Rresidents should have a work Iqamah not relative Iqamah.

We inform you that the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs Portal uses the cookies to meet basic security requirements and to ensure that the Portal works properly!

Update January 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Saudi Arabia

Travel Advisory January 24, 2024

Saudi arabia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to  the threat of missile and drone attacks.   Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to  terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat of  missile and drone attacks  and  terrorism :

  • Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
  • Abha airport;
  • Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary : U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission responsibility must adhere to the above travel restrictions.  As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations.

Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023.  The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes.  Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past.  Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia.  U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur.

Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia.  Attacks can occur with little or no warning.  Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.  Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations.  Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest .  This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life.  U.S. citizens have been convicted for social media activity under Saudi laws concerning cybercrime, terrorism, and disrupting public order.  Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases.  Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

The importation of drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, alcohol, weapons, pork, or any materials that could be considered pornographic or suggestive, is prohibited.   Penalties for drug possession, consumption, and trafficking are severe by U.S. standards.  An extensive list of banned items is available on our Saudi Arabia country information page .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:

  • Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas .
  • Stay alert in large crowds and/or locations frequented by foreign nationals.
  • Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
  • Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrest notification and the Department of State’s general information on arrests of U.S. citizens abroad .
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Follow the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report   for Saudi Arabia.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Militants in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets .  Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk.   Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area.

Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

A valid passport is required for U.S. citizens to enter or exit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A minimum of six months’ validity beyond the date of travel is recommended.

One page required for entry stamp.

Required for certain visa classes

More than 16,000 USD must be declared. Customs details are here .

Embassies and Consulates

The normal work week in Saudi Arabia is Sunday through Thursday.

U.S. Embassy Riyadh Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundbaout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (11) 488-3800 Emergency Telephone: (966) (11) 488-3800 Fax: (966) (11) 488-7670 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Jeddah Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near the new American School building. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000 Fax: (966) (12) 220-5093 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Dhahran Off King Saud bin Abdulaziz Road, at the corner of Salaheddin al Ayoubi Street and Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Street, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Telephone:   (966) (13) 839-5700 Emergency Telephone:   (966) (13) 839-5700 Fax:   (966) (13) 330-6816 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

See the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia’s website  for visa information.

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

For residency permit-holders (iqama), an exit/reentry permit is required to leave Saudi Arabia as well as six month’s validity on your passport to request an exit/reentry permit.

  • Saudi law requires that residency permit-holders carry their residency card (iqama) at all times while in the Kingdom. Failure to do so could result in a fine of 3,000 Saudi riyals and a jail sentence of six weeks.
  • Females and minors may require a male guardian’s permission to leave the country, including U.S. citizens or dual-nationals.
  • You must exit Saudi Arabia using the passport for the nationality corresponding to the one on which you entered Saudi Arabia.

Saudi law requires all Saudi citizens to enter and depart the country with a Saudi travel document. If you enter the country on a Saudi laissez-passer (temporary travel document), you may encounter difficulty leaving the Kingdom.

Saudi embassies do not have the authority to adjudicate citizenship claims or issue passports, but they may issue a laissez-passer for presumed Saudi citizens for whom citizenship has not been adjudicated, such as children of a Saudi parent or parents who were married outside of Saudi Arabia. Once admitted to Saudi Arabia on a laissez-passer, the traveler must obtain a Saudi passport before leaving the country. Saudi nationality is not conferred quickly or easily, and the processing time for a Saudi passport in these cases has often been six months or years in some cases. Obtaining a U.S. passport will not help, as you will not be able to leave Saudi Arabia without an exit visa which will not be granted if you entered as a Saudi citizen.

The Department strongly recommends that U.S. citizens enter Saudi Arabia on a U.S. passport and Saudi visa, and not a laissez-passer.

Length of Stay:  Bearers of tourist visas are generally admitted for a 90-day stay and may not remain in the Kingdom more than 180 days in a twelve month period. Carefully check your visa validity and length of stay granted, and clarify any questions on permitted length of stay with Saudi immigration officials on arrival. Dates are calculated in accordance with the Hijri calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar.

If you overstay your visa, you could face significant fines, detention, and/or deportation, and a ban from returning to Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Embassy is unable to intercede, reduce fines, or prevent incarceration if you violate Saudi law.

Travel Bans:  When placed under a travel ban, you cannot exit the country, even if you are a U.S. citizen or a dual U.S.-Saudi citizen. Travel bans are rigidly enforced and can take months or even years to resolve. Only Saudi Arabian authorities and sponsors can remove travel bans.

The government may issue travel bans on people who are/have:

  • charged with criminal offenses;
  • under investigation;
  • involved in financial or labor disputes;
  • failed to report to work according to the terms of the contract (absconded);
  • unpaid debts or who have passed bad checks.

The list above is not exhaustive. Private Saudi citizens may also initiate travel bans against foreign citizens for various reasons.

Residency Permits:  If you are seeking residency in Saudi Arabia, make sure you have all required legal documents authenticated before arriving. Neither the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh nor the U.S. Consulates General in Jeddah or Dhahran can provide this service.

You should have all U.S. issued documents authenticated by the  Department of State Office of Authentications  (202-485-8000) and attested by the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia  in Washington D.C.

Work Visas: If you plan on working in Saudi Arabia, you must obtain a work visa before you arrive. Foreigners working in Saudi Arabia are subject to the country’s sponsorship system, which concedes substantial legal authority over the worker to the employer. This can include the ability to prevent the employee from leaving the country. American citizens considering working in Saudi Arabia should carefully review the information about employment in the “Local Laws and Special Circumstances” section below.

If the visitor or business visa has been annotated “not permitted to work,” you are not allowed to legally work in Saudi Arabia. You risk substantial financial penalties, detention, deportation, and a ban from returning to Saudi Arabia if you work without legal permission. Additionally, without a work visa, there would be no legal grounds to pursue a case against an employer should a dispute arise.

HIV/AIDS:  To obtain work and residence permits, you are required to obtain a medical report or physical examination confirming that you are free from contagious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. If you test positive for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis, you will not be allowed to work in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has not imposed HIV/AIDS or hepatitis travel restrictions on other categories of travelers. Please inquire directly with the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia  before you travel.

Vaccinations:  Visitors to Saudi Arabia should check vaccination requirements on the  Saudi Ministry of Health website.

Yemen Travel:  The Department strongly advises U.S. citizens against travel to Yemen due to the ongoing conflict in that country. See our  Yemen Travel Advisory  for further information. A visa is required to enter Saudi Arabia, and Saudi authorities generally do not permit foreign citizens to enter Saudi Arabia using land border crossings from Yemen. The Embassy and Consulates General cannot provide assistance to U.S. citizens seeking to cross the Yemeni-Saudi border.

Safety and Security

The Department of State advises you to exercise increased caution when traveling to Saudi Arabia due to terrorism and the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian targets. See the Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia here .

Do not travel:

  • Within 50 miles of the border with Yemen due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and Western government interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens and other Westerners.

Houthis operating in Yemen have fired long-range missiles into Saudi Arabia, specifically targeting populated areas and civilian infrastructure; they have publicly stated their intent to continue doing so. Missile attacks have targeted major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, Riyadh’s international airport, Saudi Aramco facilities, and vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Rebel groups are also in possession of unmanned aerial systems (UASs or drones) which they have used to target civilian infrastructure and military facilities in Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens living and working on or near such installations, particularly in areas near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk of missile and drone attack.

On October 11, 2018 the Saudi General Authority for Civil Aviation issued a Notice to Airmen about threats to civil aviation and airports in Saudi Arabia posed by missiles and UASs launched from Yemen. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. Government’s Defense Internet NOTAM Service (Type “OEJD” in the search field, then click “View NOTAMs,” then scroll down to W0438/18 and click to view).

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the following locations as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to:

  • Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, including the cities of Jizan and Najran;
  • Qatif in the Eastern province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

You can find additional details relating to safety and security in our Travel Advisory and Alerts and the website of the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia .

Crime: Crime in Saudi Arabia has increased over recent years but remains at levels far below most major metropolitan areas in the United States.

  • You should be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight and secure, and travel with a companion, if possible.
  • Some Saudi citizens who perceive that a foreigner is not observing conservative standards of conduct or dress have been known to harass, pursue, or assault that person.
  • Even when released from detention, witnesses to criminal incidents may be prohibited from leaving the country until investigation of the incident is complete.

See the websites of the Department of State  and the  FBI for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime, you should contact the local police at “999” and contact the Embassy in Riyadh or one of the Consulates in Jeddah or Dhahran.Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See the Department of State’s webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The Department can:

  • help you identify appropriate medical care;
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
  • contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
  • explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
  • provide a list of local attorneys;
  • provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home;
  • replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: If you are the victim of any form of physical violence, including domestic violence, you should contact the Saudi police by calling “999”.  In addition, victims of domestic violence can contact the Saudi National Domestic Violence Hotline by dialing “1919.” The Saudi Ministry of Labor and Social Development runs a network of shelters for women and children. Contacting the domestic violence hotline (“1919”) is the only way to access these shelters. The Saudi National Family Safety Program also runs a Child Help Line “116111” and can assist children in accessing Saudi social services.

When reporting domestic violence, it is imperative to get a case reference number as all Saudi social and legal assistance is tied to this case number. It is also a good idea to document any injuries and obtain a copy of any medical reports. U.S. citizens should be advised that filing a police report or utilizing any Saudi victims’ assistance services may result in the Saudi authorities informing your sponsor or guardian.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Dual Citizenship: Saudi Arabia generally does not recognize dual nationality. Saudi law requires Saudi citizens to obtain official permission from the government before obtaining a second nationality. At times, Saudi authorities have confiscated the passports of U.S. citizens applying for Saudi citizenship. This does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship. If this happens to you or someone you know, report the incident to the U.S. Embassy.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately. Be aware that Saudi Arabia generally restricts consular notification of the arrest of foreigners to the Embassy of the country that issued the travel document used to enter the Kingdom. If you enter Saudi Arabia with a Saudi travel document, or with the passport of a country other than the United States, it will be extremely difficult for the U.S. Embassy to provide consular services if you are subsequently detained. Persons detained in Saudi Arabia may be held without charges for lengthy periods and denied access to counsel; dual citizens may not have consular assistance. See the Embassy’s webpage for further information.

Drones: The importation of drones for commercial or personal use is prohibited without prior approval from the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA). A customs clearance certificate authorizing importation can be obtained as part of the GACA approval process. Visit GACA’s website for further information.

Criminal Penalties: While in Saudi Arabia, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Saudi laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled; arrested; imprisoned; held without trial for lengthy periods of time; interrogated without counsel; subject to corporal punishments, including lashings; or executed.

Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession, and consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs in Saudi Arabia are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, public floggings, and deportation. The penalty for drug trafficking is death. Furthermore, some laws are prosecutable in the United States regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website .

There are substantial limitations on freedom of speech and political expression in Saudi Arabia. For additional information see the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Saudi Arabia .

Faith-Related Travel Issues: Islam is the official religion of the country and is present in all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. See our Hajj and Umrah Fact Sheet .

  • Saudi authorities do not permit criticism of Islam or Muslim religious figures, including on social media.
  • The government prohibits the public practice of religions other than Islam. Non-Muslims suspected of violating these restrictions have been jailed and/or deported. Church services in private homes have been raided, and participants have been jailed and/or deported.
  • Muslims who do not adhere to the strict interpretation of Islam prevalent in much of Saudi Arabia may encounter societal discrimination and constraints on public worship.
  • Public display of non-Islamic religious articles, such as crosses and Bibles, is not permitted.
  • Non-Muslims are forbidden to travel to Mecca and parts of Medina, the cities where two of Islam’s holiest mosques are located.
  • See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex sexual relations, even when consensual, are criminalized in Saudi Arabia. Violations of Saudi laws governing perceived expressions of, or support for, same-sex sexual relations, including on social media, may be subject to severe punishment. Potential penalties include fines, jail time, or death. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is generally found in the United States. Saudi law does not prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities, and there is no legislation requiring public accessibility. Newer commercial and government buildings, however, often include such access. According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, there are numerous government-sponsored centers for people with disabilities. Note that Saudi Arabia has limited infrastructure to care for those with mental disabilities.

Students: See the Department’s Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Residents and Travelers: Married women, including non-Saudis, require their husband's permission to depart the country, while unmarried women and children require the permission of their father or male guardian.

Minor children must have their father’s permission in order to leave the Kingdom. Children visiting their fathers in Saudi Arabia, even when there is a custody agreement, can be prevented from leaving unless the father consents. This is true even if the child is an American citizen. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates cannot obtain exit visas for the departure of minor children without their father/guardian's permission.

If a foreigner and a Saudi living in Saudi Arabia divorce, Saudi courts rarely grant permission for the foreign parent to leave the country with the children born during the marriage, even if he or she has been granted physical custody.

Foreign mothers of Saudi children, who are divorced or widowed, may apply for a permanent residency permit(iqama) without the need for a sponsor. To do so, they must prove maternity and that they were legally married to the Saudi father.

Also see the Department’s travel tips for Women Travelers .

Employment: The Arabic text of a contract governs employment and business arrangements under Saudi law. Verbal assurances or side letters are not binding under Saudi law. In the event of any contract dispute, Saudi authorities refer to the written contract.

  • Sponsors have wide latitude and responsibilities for employees and family members under their sponsorship, including obtaining residence permits for the employee and for any family members.
  • All residents should be issued a Saudi residence permit (iqama) and are legally required to carry it at all times.
  • The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in Saudi Arabia cannot sponsor private U.S. citizens for Saudi visas.
  • Sponsors have been known to demand that residents working in Saudi Arabia surrender their passports while in the Kingdom. Such practices are illegal and should be reported to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development .
  • Since the Saudi sponsor controls the issuance of exit permits, U.S. citizens may be prevented by the sponsor from leaving Saudi Arabia in the event of a labor or business dispute, which could take months or years to resolve.
  • To change employers within the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia requires the written permission of the original sponsoring employer.
  • The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General cannot assist in labor or business disputes, nor can they provide translation or legal services.
  • U.S. consular officers can provide lists of local attorneys to help U.S. citizens settle business disputes, but ultimate responsibility for the resolution of disputes through the Saudi legal system, and payment for those services, lies with the parties involved. For additional information on Saudi labor law, please refer to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development’s webpage .
  • Saudi customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning the importation of such banned items as alcohol, weapons, and any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam (such as pork, anything considered pornographic under strict Islamic principles, and religious materials).
  • Imported and domestic audiovisual media and reading matter are censored.
  • Christmas and other holiday decorations, fashion magazines, and "suggestive" videos may be confiscated and the owner subject to penalties and fines.
  • Electronic devices may be subject to inspection upon entry or exit. Please see the Department’s Customs Information page as well as the Saudi Customs webpage.

Importing Animals: The Saudi Ministry of Agriculture must approve all pets imported into Saudi Arabia.

  • Cats and dogs entering Saudi Arabia require a Veterinary Health Certificate and a dated letter from the veterinary practitioner addressed to his/her sponsor to obtain the necessary approval from the Ministry of Agriculture.
  • Both documents must be authenticated by the Department of Agriculture Veterinary Service Office and the State Department's Authentications Office and attested by the Embassy of Saudi Arabia .
  • The certificate must indicate that the animal was examined and is free from disease and confirm that rabies and other vaccines are current. Information on the name, breed, sex, color, and age of the animal must also be stated.
  • Please see additional information on taking a pet overseas .

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia: In recent years, increasing numbers of American language teachers have experienced contractual and other problems. Some teachers have complained about arbitrary dismissals, difficult living conditions, salary arrears, unwanted reassignments, restrictions on their movement, and inability to leave the country. Prospective teachers in Saudi Arabia should vet their potential employer and carefully review their employment offer as well as the detailed information found in the Embassy’s Guide to Teaching English in Saudi Arabia . Additionally, prospective teachers should also take care to make sure that they obtain the appropriate work visa prior to coming to Saudi Arabia. The Embassy cannot help you if you violate Saudi labor law.

Standards of Conduct and Religious Police: Norms for public behavior in Saudi Arabia are extremely conservative. Both the uniformed police and the religious police, referred to colloquially as the mutawwa or al-hay’a, are charged with enforcing these standards.

  • Mutawwa are required to carry special identification and usually are accompanied by uniformed police.
  • While a 2016 government decree withdrew the authority of the mutawwa to make arrests independently of regular police forces, visitors should be prudent in their interactions with mutawwa.
  • An individual must, if requested, present his/her residence permit (iqama) or other identification to the mutawwa or the police.
  • U.S. citizens who are involved in an incident with the mutawwa should report the incident to the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh or the U.S. Consulates General in Jeddah or Dhahran.

In most areas of Saudi Arabia, and particularly in Riyadh and the central part of the Kingdom, women wear a full-length covering known as an abaya. Most women in conservative areas also cover their hair with a hijab for modesty, and many also cover their faces with a niqab.

Tourists are expected to dress modestly in public, avoiding tight fitting clothing or clothes with profane language or images; women are not required to wear abayas or cover their hair but are expected to cover their shoulders and knees, and men should not go without a shirt. Women who choose not to conform to Saudi Arabia’s dress code face a risk of confrontation by mutawwa, negative or hostile comments by Saudi citizens, and possible detention Guidelines on public decorum for tourists are available at the Saudi government’s official tourism website, www.visitsaudi.com. Many areas of life in Saudi Arabia are segregated by sex to ensure that unrelated men and women have no possibility of mingling (a punishable crime) by unmarried men and women. Less frequently, members of the mutawwa try to enforce this by asking for proof that a couple is married or related. Men and women detained for socializing with individuals who are not relatives may be charged with moral crimes such as khulwa (mixing with unrelated members of the opposite sex). Less frequently, some restaurants may refuse to serve women who are not accompanied by a close male relative In addition, a few restaurants or cafes do not have a "family section" in which women are permitted to eat. Men not accompanied by a close female family member are not allowed to enter family sections and cannot use services (such as registers at supermarkets) designated as “family.” These restrictions are not always clearly posted.

While there are now movie theaters, musical concerts, and artistic performances in Saudi Arabia, the country remains socially conservative. Social media postings which contravene cultural standards can have legal and/or criminal consequences.

Photography: The Saudi government does not permit photography of governmental facilities, such as military bases and government buildings, nor military, security, or police personnel. The Saudi government is also sensitive to photographs that may be perceived as portraying the country in an unfavorable light. This policy can include photos of mosques, impoverished areas, the local population, and traditional souks (markets). You should not take anyone’s picture without clear consent, and never take a picture of a woman or a place where women congregate. Be aware of local sensitivities whenever you are taking pictures in public. U.S. citizens have been routinely detained for violating these policies. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General are unable to intervene if you violate Saudi law.

The Hajj and Umrah: Please review the Department of State’s Hajj and Umrah Fact Sheet for useful information on traveling to perform the Hajj or Umrah.

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID-19 testing is available to U.S. citizens throughout Saudi Arabia at public and private facilities. Private hospitals and clinics charge a fee for COVID-19 testing.  Cost, delivery method, and timing of results varies. Some facilities can electronically deliver results within 24 hours or less.  

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Saudi Arabia. For more information, please see the Ministry of Health’s website.

Visit the FDA's website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

Medical care varies greatly in quality, and high-profile cases of medical malpractice and errors have occurred. Consult your regular physician if you are considering serious medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers in Saudi Arabia accept cash or credit card payments.  See the Department’s webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation is strongly recommended. If you are covered by Saudi insurance, be sure to read the fine print: local insurance can have exclusions that are unusual in the United States. For example, some local policies may not supply coverage for accidents that occur while engaging in adventure sports, such as riding quad vehicles in the desert, that are a common past-time for expatriates.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Saudi Arabia  to ensure the medication is legal in Saudi Arabia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Please note:

  • Saudi Arabia has a dry climate with extreme heat several months of the year – travelers should stay hydrated.
  • Air pollution is a significant concern in many parts of Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Al Jubail, Jeddah, and Dammam.
  • Many infectious diseases, such as measles, typhoid, dengue, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), are present in Saudi Arabia.

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to:

  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   (CDC)
  • Saudi Ministry of Health

Medical care varies greatly in quality, and high profile cases of medical malpractice and errors have occurred. Consult your regular physician if you are considering serious medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. If you are covered by Saudi insurance, be sure to read the fine print: local insurance can have exclusions that are unusual in the United States. For example, some local policies may not supply coverage for accidents that occur while engaging in adventure sports, such as riding quad vehicles in the desert, that are a common past-time for expats.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Saudi Arabia  to ensure the medication is legal in Saudi Arabia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

For health-related information on the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), formerly called “novel coronavirus,” visit the  CDC’s MERS-CoV webpage .

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations   recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Saudi Arabia can be hazardous due to speeding and aggressive driving, lax enforcement of traffic regulations, and a high volume of traffic.

Beginning on June 24, 2018, women have been able to obtain a driver’s license and can legally drive in Saudi Arabia. With a valid visitor visa and U.S. or international driver’s license, visitors may drive a rental car. However, outside the major cities of Riyadh, Dhahran and Jeddah, visitors—especially women—may experience difficulty renting a car. Female residents with independent sponsorships and U.S. or international driver’s licenses also may obtain a Saudi driver’s license, necessary to drive vehicles other than rental cars. Foreign women residing in Saudi Arabia who are listed as dependents on their Saudi residency permit (“iqama”) may experience difficulties in obtaining Saudi driver’s licenses. To drive vehicles other than rental cars, a Saudi driver’s license, appropriate car registration, and auto insurance are required. Police may detain you if you cannot produce these documents.

See the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior website for further information.

Traffic Laws :

  • Temporary visitors may drive using their valid U.S. or international driver's license for up to 90 days.
  • Foreigners resident in Saudi Arabia who wish to drive must obtain a local driver's license from the Department of Traffic Police.
  • In the event of a traffic accident, U.S. citizens should dial “993” to report the accident. You must remain on the scene until the traffic police arrive. Failure to do so can result in a criminal offense.
  • Additionally, U.S. citizens should contact Najm, a private company contracted by the traffic police to complete the accident report (+966 9200 00560).
  • In the event of a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, everyone involved (if not seriously injured) is likely be taken to the local police station.
  • All drivers, regardless of fault, can be held in custody for several days until responsibility is determined and any reparations paid.
  • Use of front seat belts (driver and passenger) is required by law.
  • U.S. citizens involved in a serious accident resulting in injury or death should immediately contact their sponsors and the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate.
  • Residents should update their personal details through one of the methods available here to receive SMS notifications once a traffic ticket is issued.
  • Delay in payment of any ticket might result in doubling of the ticket amount.
  • Travelers will need to pay any fines issued through this system before leaving the country.

Public Transportation:

  • U.S. Government employees are prohibited from using taxis in Saudi Arabia with the exception of Uber Black in Riyadh, Kareem First in Jeddah, and Majestic taxi service in Dhahran. If you must use a taxi, only use established companies, such as those offering cabs with meters. Taxis and lift services are available throughout major cities, and you should arrange a pickup by telephone or via smartphone app when possible.
  • Avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxi, do not travel to unfamiliar areas, and do not enter taxis with unknown passengers.

Please refer to the Department’s Road Safety page for more information. Also, it is recommended that you visit the website of the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Saudi Arabia's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards for oversight of Saudi Arabia's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA safety assessment page .

Information for Mariners:

Mariners should also review U.S. maritime alerts and advisories on the Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Saudi Arabia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, saudi arabia map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia

Home

Tourist Visa

For more information about the Tourist Visa and how to apply, please, Visit Saudi  website.

The only verifiable source for the tourist visa is the link provided on the Embassy’s website. Please do not use outside links as they cannot be verified and will not be accepted.

Complete Guide for Beginners to Saudi Arabia eVisa

First time traveling to saudi arabia and worried about lengthy paperwork no more manual visa applications it’s saudi evisa now. here’s the guide for you..

Feeling excited to explore the rich culture, history, and heritage of Saudi Arabia? But are you worried about handling lengthy paperwork? Stop worrying! Gone are the days of filling out visa application forms manually.

Good News for travelers: Like many other countries, Saudi Arabia has embraced digitization for their visa application procedure and switched to  Saudi eVisa .

Saudi Arabia online visa  means less hassle when applying for the Saudi tourist visa, giving you more time to plan your trip perfectly. Overall, it has made getting to Saudi Arabia easier than ever!

Saudi Visa Online is an electronic travel authorization or travel permit to visit Saudi Arabia for a period of time upto 30 days for travel or business purposes. International visitors must have a Saudi e-Visa to be able to visit Saudi Arabia . Foreign citizens can apply for an Saudi e-Visa Application in a matter of minutes. Saudi Visa Application process is automated, simple, and completely online.

What is an eVisa to Saudi Arabia?

Saudi eVisa is a legal electronic permit to enter, stay, and explore the beauty and culture of Saudi Arabia. The difference from the previous Saudi visa application process is just that it is 100% online. Your eVisa is directly linked to your passport electronically. Hence, you no longer must take trips to your nearest Saudi embassies or consulates or wait in queue to get a stamp or sticker on your passport after arriving at Saudi international airports, such as Dammam International Airport, Jeddah International Airport, Medina Airport, and many more.

However, you may have to show the printed copy of your Saudi eVisa at the port of entry sometimes, depending on why you are traveling, especially when you are a foreign visitor. For example,  Saudi eVisa for US visa holders  needs at least two printed copies to be carried during the trip.

Benefits of Using a Saudi Online Visa for Travel

The best thing about  applying for a Saudi travel visa online  is its effortless and hassle-free process. You can say goodbye to the lengthy manual paperwork for visa application- Everything’s online. There’s no need to visit embassies or consulates to make an application. Moreover, it speeds up the entire process. You will receive your eVisa to Saudi Arabia via email just within three business days, which means you can travel sooner. Overall, everything will be at your fingertips, from online applications to  online visa status checks  to getting notified.

Note : Saudi eVisa is not only available for travel and tourism, business, or sightseeing. There's a  Saudi eVisa for Umrah , which you can apply for to visit Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Umrah at any time of the year. In fact, you can do Umrah using a  Saudi tourist eVisa  and stay there for up to 90 days to explore the best places in this country.

How Does a Saudi eVisa Work? A Step-by-step Guide

Saudi Arabia E Visa A Compleate Guide for Biginners

Now, let’s move to the  Saudi visa application process online . Here’s the step-by-step guide for you:

Online application

Applying for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia is no different than booking your flight or hotel rooms these days. You need to include your personal details and travel itinerary, as asked in the online visa application form, including your full name, date of birth, and passport details.

Document submission

You just need to upload scanned copies of all the required documents, including your passport, your photograph, return flight tickets, and travel insurance. Hence, you can avoid the hassle of losing files or printing documents and paper forms.

Make sure you have a valid credit or debit card to pay securely online for the Saudi eVisa fees.

Get the eVisa confirmation

Once the payment is done, your e-visa will be linked with your passport, and you will receive the visa via email. Just print it out or show the downloaded PDF on your smartphone during the trip.

In Conclusion

At  SAUDI ARABIA VISA , our expert agents will help you in the entire  Saudi online visa  process, from filling out the form to document translation to reviewing the application for accuracy. We can also help obtain travel authorization to Saudi Arabia.  Apply today .

READ MORE: Saudi e-Visa is a required travel authorization for travelers visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. This online process for Electronic Travel Authorisation for Saudi Arabia was implemented from 2019 by Saudi Government, with the goal of enabling any of the future eligible travelers to apply for an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia. Learn more at Saudi Visa Online .

Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. British citizens , US citizens , Australian citizens , French citizens , Spanish Citizens , Dutch Citizens and Italian citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa. Should you need any help or require any clarifications you should contact our Saudi Visa Help Desk  for support and guidance.

An error has occurred, please try again.

Pardon Our Interruption

As you were browsing something about your browser made us think you were a bot. There are a few reasons this might happen:

  • You've disabled JavaScript in your web browser.
  • You're a power user moving through this website with super-human speed.
  • You've disabled cookies in your web browser.
  • A third-party browser plugin, such as Ghostery or NoScript, is preventing JavaScript from running. Additional information is available in this support article .

To regain access, please make sure that cookies and JavaScript are enabled before reloading the page.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

government visit visa saudi arabia

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Saudi Arabia

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Saudi Arabia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Saudi Embassy in the UK . 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Saudi Arabia.

Passport validity requirements 

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel 

You may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows that you have travelled to, or were born, in Israel. 

Visa requirements 

You must get an e-visa or an electronic visa waiver (EVW) either before you travel or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports. The type of e-visa or EVW you choose depends on your reason for travelling and how long you want to stay.

If you overstay your visa, you could face large fines, detention and deportation. You could be banned from returning to Saudi Arabia.  

Applying for an e-visa 

You can apply for an e-visa if you are a tourist. You must get an e-visa to perform Umrah. 

E-visas are: 

  • valid for 365 days from the date of issue 
  • for visits of up to 90 days 
  • for multiple entries  

Apply online or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports.  

You will need a separate visa for Hajj. See guidance on the Umrah and Hajj application process . 

Applying for an electronic visa waiver (EVW) 

You can apply for an electronic visa waiver (EVW) if you’re travelling for: 

  • medical treatment 

An EVW allows you to enter Saudi Arabia once and stay for up to 6 months.  

Apply online for an EVW at least 48 hours before your flights, or up to 90 days in advance. You will need to give your flight details.

Travelling overland  

Your visa may only allow you to enter Saudi Arabia by air. If you plan to travel to Saudi Arabia by the Bahrain causeway, check your visa before travelling. Ask your travel agent or the Saudi Embassy if you need help. 

Travelling through Saudi Arabia 

If you’re transferring through Saudi Arabia, you may need a transit visa if: 

  • you will pass through immigration control 
  • you will leave Saudi Arabia on a separate ticket to the one you arrive on 
  • the connecting time between your flights is more than 12 hours 

Check with your airline or travel agency if you require a transit visa.

Exit, re-entry and final exit permits 

If you live in Saudi Arabia, you must get an exit or re-entry permit from your sponsor to leave and re-enter the country. If you leave Saudi Arabia on a final exit permit, you must apply for a new visa to return to the country.  

Wives and children of Saudi nationals 

If you’re a woman married to a Saudi national, you must get a re-entry or final exit permit from your husband to leave Saudi Arabia. This also applies to children of Saudi nationals.

Flight restrictions around Hajj 

If you plan to travel around the time of the Hajj pilgrimage, check with your airline for any flight restrictions. 

The Saudi authorities have stopped visitors who are not performing Hajj from flying to Jeddah, Madinah and Taif. You may need a Hajj visa to board flights to these places during Hajj.  

You will still be able to enter Saudi Arabia through other airports.

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Saudi Arabia guide . 

Depending on your circumstances, these may include: 

  • a yellow fever vaccination certificate  
  • meningococcal quadrivalent vaccine

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Saudi Arabia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

It is illegal to import: 

  • pork and pork products 
  • pornographic material 
  • distillery equipment 
  • re-treaded or used tyres  
  • used clothing except for personal use  

certain sculptures such as religious symbols     Other items may be examined, including: 

  • personal videos 
  • electronic devices  

You may need to special approval to bring: 

  • agricultural seeds 
  • live animals 
  • religious books (except for personal use) 
  • chemicals and harmful materials 
  • some pharmaceutical products 
  • wireless equipment  
  • radio-controlled model airplanes 
  • archaeological artefacts 

Using technical equipment 

You may need a licence for: 

  • satellite phones 
  • listening or recording devices 
  • radio transmitters 
  • powerful cameras or binoculars 

If you need information on customs rules, contact the Saudi Embassy . 

Related content

Is this page useful.

  • Yes this page is useful
  • No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

A Complete Guide on all Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

Whenever you plan for a trip to any country the first concern is about your visa. If you are planning for a trip to Saudi Arabia then select the all type of visa in Saudi Arabia according to your purpose of the trip. Saudi Arabia gives multiple types of visas. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide of some common types of visas, their requirements, their fees, and some prohibited things in Saudi Arabia. By reading this you will definitely have knowledge about all the concerns about different types of visas of Saudi Arabia.

Importance of all Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

Like most other countries in Asia such as Iran, Iraq, and Thailand, Saudi Arabia requires its citizens to obtain a visa before entering. But Saudi Arabia offers the opportunity to travel to four countries without Visa. These countries are Bahrain, Oman, UAE, and Kuwait.  The people of these countries just need their ID cards to enter Saudi Arabia. 

Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

There are many types of visas in Saudi Arabia. Online applications are possible for some, but for others, you have to visit the consulate in Saudi Arabia. In this article, we will provide the most common types of Visas of Saudi Arabia.

  • Saudi Arabia family visit visa : The following link will provide more information and detail.
  • Saudi Arabia eVisa 
  • Saudi Arabia business visa
  • Saudi Arabia visitor visa
  • Saudi Arabia work visa :The following link will provide more information and detail.
  • Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa/Hajj Visa

Student Visa of Saudi Arabia

Saudi arabian government visa, saudi arabia family visit visa.

If one of your family members lives in Saudi Arabia and you want to visit him. Then you can apply for a family visit visa in Saudi Arabia online if your country is present in eligible countries for eVisa service. Whether you follow a variety of religious beliefs or none at all, it is required that you abide by the Islamic laws of the country while on a Family Visit Visa. only your family members like your wife and children are eligible for a family visit visa. Your parents are not eligible for a Family vise in Saudi Arabia . Your son who is more than 18 years old is not eligible for a family visit visa. 

Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

Prohibited Items from Bringing Into Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia EVisa

Saudi Arabia introduced the eVisa in Saudi Arabia for tourism, family visit, or business purposes. Saudi Arabia selects 51 countries that can apply for eVisa in Saudi Arabia. Applicants for a Saudi eVisa can apply online through the official Saudi Ministry of Tourism website. Saudi Arabia offers eVisas to citizens of the following countries.

Saudi Arabia EVisa

Saudi Arabia Business Visa

Saudi Arabia business visas are available for foreign visitors who wish to visit the kingdom for business purposes such as meetings, training, business deals, etc. With this Saudi visa, you will be able to visit Saudi Arabia for short-term business meetings, discussions, and training events. Saudi visas are available for three months or six months, depending on whether you wish to enter the country once or more. At most, you can stay for 30 days during a single visit. Saudi visas will be issued according to the government’s regulations regarding multiple entry or one-time entry.

In order to get more details and further information, please click here: Saudi Arabia’s Labour Reform Initiative – Latest Update

government visit visa saudi arabia

Saudi Arabia Visitor Visa

A Saudi visitor’s visa is necessary if you intend to visit relatives or friends in Saudi Arabia. You can easily get one. You can get a Saudi Arabia visa from an embassy if you are not eligible for an eVisa or visa on arrival. You will be permitted to enter Saudi Arabia with a Saudi Arabian tourist visa for the sole purpose of sightseeing and tourism .

Saudi Arabia Visitor Visa

Saudi Arabia Work Visa

If Saudi Arabia offers you a job then the only thing you need is your work visa in Saudi Arabia. Employers in Saudi Arabia are only eligible for a work visa or employment visas Saudi Arabia. Once you enter the KSA with the Saudi Work Visa, you will also need to request a residency permit from the Ministry of Labor in the KSA. You can live and work in Saudi Arabia full-time with this visa. To be eligible for the job, you must have an employment contract, invitations, and all other necessary documents such as a medical report and attestation certificate. 

government visit visa saudi arabia

Saudi Arabia Hajj Visa/Umrah Visa

Those who qualify for a Saudi Arabia eVisa may also use it to perform Hajj/Umrah in the Kingdom.

This visa is free of cost for all Muslim countries. If you want to perform Umrah or Hajj then you need to apply for Hajj and Umrah Visa in Saudi Arabia. Such pilgrimages are centered in Makkah and Madinah.

The Saudi Government sets some rules for women for hajj and Umrah visas. Women must travel with a Maharam. But women over the age of 45 can travel with the organization with a letter signed by their husband or Maharam.

If you want to study in Saudi Arabia then Saudi Arabia offers a Student Visa.  The first step is to get accepted into an accredited university or institute in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To obtain a Saudi Student Visa, your university must apply to the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs. Once you have been granted your visa, you can apply for a Saudi study visa at the Saudi Consulate in your city.

If you want to visit Saudi Arabia just for the purpose of government events then you just need a Government visa of Saudi Arabia. Most often, this pertains to attendees at conferences (e.g. Cancer Research Conference), public events (e.g. Panel Discussions, Lectures, Concerts, FundRaising Events, Sporting Events like bard ), or the applicant is invited by an official Saudi government body, e.g. the Ministry of Defence, the Royal Bank of Saudi Arabia, an educational or medical institution, an association of lawyers, a court of justice, a hospital, a charity, an environmental organization, a human rights organization, etc.

How to apply for a Saudi Visa?

There are tw0 methods to apply for Saudi visas. Here we will provide you with these two methods.  

  • Through Online
  • Through Saudi Arabia Embassy

Saudi Arabia Visa Apply online

The first method is applying for a visa online through the website of Saudi Arabia. You can apply only for eVisa online on the official website of Saudi Arabia. You can only apply for this visa if you are eligible for eVisa. In the above portion, we will provide you with a list of 51 countries that are eligible for online eVisa service in Saudi Arabia.  

Saudi Arabia Visa through Saudi Embassy

If you are not eligible for an online service or visa then you have to go to any Saudi Embassy for a visa. So you can check for the visa requirements for Saudi Arabia in its embassy first, and then either make an appointment or contact the agency. Embassies required some documentary work for Visas. You require your passport first and all primary documents. Many agencies offer different Visas but beware of fake agencies. 

Fees for Saudi Arabia Visa

The Saudi Government sets some fees for all types of Visas in Saudi Arabia . Here we will provide you with lists of fees.  

Punishments if Visa Expired

If you overstay in Saudi Arabia. Overstay means when your visa expires but you still stay in the country then this country punishes them and sets some fines.  

Here, we provide you with the most common types of visas of Saudi Arabia and their description. Fees for the Visas, their methods, and punishments if you overstay in Saudi Arabia.

The following link will provide more information and detail : How to Check Saudi Work Visa Stamp Status Online?

In order to get more details and further information, please click here: A Complete Guide on How to Apply for a Permanent Family Visa in Saudi Arabia

Ali Muhammad

Hi everybody! myself Ali and I am exploring different places in KSA, and I’m a conveyed essayist. I’ve been making as a diversion activity for practically 10 years until I at last chose to uninhibitedly convey. I esteem sharing stories and drafting things that take individuals on the excursion of the psyche.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Gulfvisa Ltd

  • Algeria Visa
  • Ethiopia Visa
  • Ghana Visa Services
  • Indonesia Visa
  • Kuwait Visa
  • Mozambique Visa
  • Myanmar Visa
  • Saudi Arabia Visa
  • Uzbekistan Visa
  • Zambia Visa
  • Bahrain Embassy Attestation
  • China Embassy Attestation
  • Egypt Embassy
  • Ethiopia Embassy Attestation
  • Jordan Embassy
  • Kuwait Embassy Attestation
  • Malaysia Embassy
  • Philippines Embassy
  • Qatar Embassy Attestation
  • Saudi Arabia Embassy Attestation
  • UAE Document Attestation
  • Vietnam Embassy
  • Document Translation
  • Track Your Service

Saudi Arabia Government Visit Visa

Finished in 2 working days.

Saudi Arabia Government Visit Visa

In order to obtain a Saudi Government Visit visa, you must be invited by a Saudi Arabian Government Department or Institution (e.g. government hospital, university or ministry etc.). To obtain this, you must get an approved visa authorisation letter from the Saudi Arabia Foreign Ministry. GulfVisa is an accredited UK visa agent based in the heart of London which can provide you with this particular visa. 

GulfVisa provides a complete one solution service to obtain a Saudi Arabian Government Visit visa on your behalf. We make the complex visa process simple for you, allowing you to get your visa with minimal effort – saving you time for your busy daily schedule, money and any travel inconvenience. The Saudi Government visit visa process is full of many different parts, some of which can be difficult to understand and undergo. Therefore, by using us, you can have the peace of mind going about your working day, knowing fully well that GulfVisa is taking good care of your Saudi Arabian visa application.

IMPORTANT NEW NOTICE : From 13th November 2023 the Saudi Embassy will require all applicants to submit their fingerprints at a Saudi Visa Centre in London. We will make an appointment on your behalf based on your availability. 

government visit visa saudi arabia

How to obtain a Saudi Arabia Government Visit Visa - 3 simple steps

  • Passport   (must be valid for more than 6 months + two blank pages facing each other).
  • Two passport sized photos   (must be recently taken + have a white background).
  • Complete the Saudi Business Visa application form (available on page 2 of our Pack).
  • Original supporting/introduction letter from your UK company/department (template available on page 3 of our Pack).  This must be stamped from the British Chamber of Commerce if the letter is from a commercial company. We offer this service. (You don't need  to stamp it if the letter is from the UK Government, an NHS hospital or Government university). 
  • Visa invitation letter from your Saudi sponsor (see example on page 4 of our Pack).
  • Read and sign the Declaration form (available on pages 5 & 6 of our Pack).

Please select one of the following services

  • Free UK delivery (by Royal Mail Special Delivery)
  • Free Expert Service Pre-Checks
  • Free Debit / Credit Card Use (no surcharge)
  • Embassy / Institution Charges (if applicable)
  • GulfVisa Handling Fees
  • All Taxes Included
  • No Hidden Fees

Visa Validity

For  single visas , you must travel to Saudi Arabia witihin 89 days from the date of visa issue on your passport.

For  multiple visas , you must travel to Saudi Arabia within 180 days.

To  see how long you can stay in Saudi for  (starting from the day you land), please read the visa invitation/authorisation letter (requirement 5) that you would receive from a Saudi Government department. 

One Service, One Price

Prices quoted on our website include all costs for the required service. This means we include all the embassy/institution fees, Gulfvisa handling fees, pre-checks, all taxes and all other charges. There are no added surprises! Furthermore, there are no debit / credit card surcharges and we provide free special delivery within the UK. Rest assured with our transparent prices that Gulfvisa will not add unforeseen costs later on. Our aim is to  provide you with that peace of mind you deserve.

Free Pre-Checks Included

With many years of experience, our specialists will pre-check your documents before submission – a free included service whenever you use GulfVisa. This ensures the absolute best chance of getting your service done promptly, not only saving you time, but also money and effort. GulfVisa operates with high levels of expertise and security in everything we do. All this to ensure we deliver the most reliable and convenient service our customers need and want.

Amazing Customer Feedback

Address: Gulfvisa Limited, 17 Hanover Square, Mayfair, London, W1S 1HU, UK

Telephone: 020 337 11 554 (inside UK)     +44 (0)20 337 11 554 (outside UK)

Limited Company Registered Number: 07357610       VAT Number: 191251617

government visit visa saudi arabia

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Almosafer’s CEO on Navigating the Future of Saudi Tourism

Almosafer + Skift

Almosafer + Skift

March 25th, 2024 at 1:19 PM EDT

In rewriting its tourism narrative, Saudi Arabia’s shift towards broader offerings, digital integration, and infrastructure improvements signals a forward-looking approach aimed at tapping into new growth avenues within the global travel industry.

This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner.

Behind every successful travel destination is a story of adaptation and foresight. For Saudi Arabia, it’s about embracing change and rewriting the narrative. With the country hitting its tourism target of 100 million visitors seven years early , the sector is poised for unprecedented innovation and growth. Travel companies in the region now face the challenge of recalibrating to keep pace with emerging trends and new market realities.

SkiftX spoke with Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, to gain insights into the evolving dynamics shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape and the key forces and opportunities propelling the sector forward.

SkiftX: How has the way people plan and experience travel changed in Saudi Arabia in recent years?

Muzzammil Ahussain: Saudi travelers continue to explore destinations, with travel demand surpassing pre-pandemic levels. More people are eyeing luxury getaways and experiential tourism across the wider GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), Europe, and Asia, with trending destinations, including Turkey and Thailand, fueled by easy visa accessibility. 

Domestic tourism accounts for over 40 percent of our consumer booking volume, which indicates that the country’s efforts to promote local tourism are effective. While religious tourism and key cities still play a major role in domestic bookings, new leisure destinations such as Abha and Taif, as well as luxury getaways like AlUla and the Red Sea, have seen a growth in demand.

Saudi travelers spent more on longer trips in 2023, with both average trip length and spending rising compared to pre-pandemic levels. There’s been a shift towards more luxurious and meaningful experiences post-Covid. Meanwhile, low-cost carrier bookings have increased, showing that travelers prefer economical flights while allocating more for in-destination expenses.

SkiftX: What major opportunities do you foresee for new technologies to drive growth and innovation within the region’s tourism industry?

Ahussain: Technological innovations have revolutionized customers’ travel experiences in the region, with digital platforms becoming the go-to for complete travel planning. 

B2B portals and distribution platforms are also driving industry growth, while white-label solutions allow partners to adopt advanced technology without heavy IT investments. This promotes a more inclusive tourism ecosystem and stimulates growth across all levels of the industry.

The future of tourism relies on continuous digital innovation, including AI for personalized recommendations, VR for virtual tours, and blockchain for secure transactions. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leading digital tourism hub in line with Vision 2030 by staying at the forefront of these technological advancements. Almosafer will remain a key driving force behind digital developments in the sector.

As corporate and government travel requirements evolve, what are some new solutions Almosafer is introducing to redefine travel management, and how are they improving operational efficiency?

Ahussain: Almosafer Business, our corporate and government clients division in the Kingdom, provides customized travel management services by integrating Almosafer technology, travel advisory, and expertise across our 40-plus years of local market experience. We serve over 140 leading corporate and government entities as a one-stop shop for end-to-end travel management services. Our digitized system provides a flawless experience, making every step trackable, leading to improved efficiency.

We’ve also recently partnered with American Express Saudi Arabia to enable our corporate clients to centralize payments through its Corporate Travel Account (CTA). This consolidates and enhances corporate travel spending visibility, providing clients with an optimized, personalized business travel management solution.

What key destination development strategies are making the underexplored areas of Saudi Arabia more accessible to international tourists?

Ahussain: Saudi Arabia is making significant investments in infrastructure, new airports, increased flight frequencies, additional routes, the establishment of ground transportation facilities, and a richer array of “things to do,” making it easier for global hospitality brands to expand into underexplored areas, driven by growing interest from domestic and international tourists.

Destination management companies (DMCs) also play a big role in providing on-ground services. They increase awareness of local offerings in collaboration with regional destination management offices (DMOs). Enhanced connectivity and global marketing are bringing previously unexplored territories to the forefront, and our DMC, Discover Saudi, is well-placed to serve the influx of travelers from around the world.

Almosafer’s recent partnership with the upcoming Riyadh Air, investments in alternative accommodation, and ongoing collaborations with the Saudi Tourism Authority and key ecosystem players are all contributing to a seamless experience for international tourists looking for authentic immersion in the Kingdom.

How is Saudi Arabia planning to improve its religious tourism infrastructure?

Ahussain: Religious tourism is the largest economic contributor to the country’s tourism sector. The two holy cities of Makkah and Madinah are popular destinations throughout the year, as per Almosafer’s consumer and inbound tourism data. The Saudi government aims to increase the number of pilgrims to over 30 million by 2030 and is investing in infrastructure to improve the mosques, hotels, transportation, and tourist services in Makkah and Madinah.

Several projects are underway to accommodate increasing visitor numbers, including the Holy Mosque’s expansion and urban development projects like Rua Al-Madinah, a large mixed-use real estate development near the Prophet’s Mosque, and the Masar development giga-project in Makkah.

Recent reforms in Saudi Arabia now allow visitors to perform Umrah with any visa and have simplified visa policies, with residents of the GCC being able to obtain a visa on arrival.

What role does Almosafer play in streamlining the Hajj and Umrah experience?

Ahussain: Mawasim, Almosafer’s dedicated Hajj and Umrah tour operator, provides B2B partners worldwide with a portal to create seamless pilgrimage experiences. Religious tourism is critical to our growth and will be strengthened in 2024 by integrating with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official booking portal, Nusuk. This will expand our Umrah package offerings globally. 

Mawasim is also among the few companies licensed by the Ministry to provide Hajj-related services in select destinations via its B2C platform, Nusuk Hajj, with plans to serve 10,000 Hajj pilgrims annually, including new markets.

Almosafer has also recently been named the official flight partner for the direct Hajj program through Nusuk Hajj. This partnership will improve the Hajj experience for pilgrims from Europe, the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and select Asian and African countries, with reliable travel options and a range of additional services from the Nusk Hajj platform.

What trends are currently shaping the activities and tours market in Saudi Arabia?

Ahussain: Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage and diverse geography make it an ideal destination for those seeking immersive experiences. Almosafer has seen a growing demand for activities and recreation among Saudi residents, mainly in Riyadh and Jeddah, with personalized experiences like diving, snorkeling, and other adventure and nature-based activities being popular among domestic travelers.

Almosafer continues to promote local activations by partnering with key stakeholders in the industry. Additionally, we support SMEs through Almosafer Activities, the Kingdom’s first marketplace for tours and activities, which is now integrated with Almosafer’s other travel businesses and sells directly to domestic travelers.

What key trends do you predict will shape Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector over the next decade, and how should stakeholders adapt?

Ahussain: While religious tourism has traditionally been the cornerstone of the local tourism sector, leisure and entertainment travel are set to become additional major economic drivers moving forward. The development of giga-projects shows the ambitious scale of Saudi Arabia’s vision for the future. With outbound, domestic, and inbound tourism increasing, improving local infrastructure and offering seamless digital experiences will ensure travelers have unforgettable visits, making Saudi Arabia a must-visit destination.

For more information about Almosafer, click here .

This content was created collaboratively by Almosafer and Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX . 

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: accessible travel , booking technology , digital technology , infrastructure , religious travel , SkiftX Showcase: Destinations , SkiftX Showcase: Hospitality , SkiftX Showcase: Technology , Travel Trends

  • Latest News
  • Emergencies
  • Ask the Law
  • GN Fun Drive
  • Visa+Immigration
  • Phone+Internet
  • Reader Queries
  • Safety+Security
  • Banking & Insurance
  • Dubai Airshow
  • Corporate Tax
  • Top Destinations
  • Corporate News
  • Electronics
  • Home and Kitchen
  • Consumables
  • Saving and Investment
  • Budget Living
  • Expert Columns
  • Community Tips
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Cooking and Cuisines
  • Guide to Cooking
  • Art & People
  • Friday Partner
  • Daily Crossword
  • Word Search
  • Philippines
  • Australia-New Zealand
  • Corrections
  • From the Editors
  • Special Reports
  • Pregnancy & Baby
  • Learning & Play
  • Child Health
  • For Mums & Dads
  • UAE Success Stories
  • Live the Luxury
  • Culture and History
  • Staying Connected
  • Entertainment
  • Live Scores
  • Point Table
  • Top Scorers
  • Photos & Videos
  • Course Reviews
  • Learn to Play
  • South Indian
  • Arab Celebs
  • Health+Fitness
  • Gitex Global 2023
  • Best Of Bollywood
  • Special Features
  • Investing in the Future
  • Know Plan Go
  • Gratuity Calculator
  • Notifications
  • Prayer Times
  • Cinema Listing

Saudi Arabia: Valid iqama a must for final exit visa

Quarterly renewal of residency permit available in the kingdom

STOCK SAUDI VISA PASSPORT

Cairo: An expatriate cannot obtain a final exit visa in Saudi Arabia without holding a valid iqama or a residency permit, a Saudi lawyer has said.

“No expat can get a final exit visa issued until he/she renews the iqama,” lawyer Zyad Al Shalaan said in a TikTok video.

He was answering a query if an expat whose iqama was expired two years ago can still obtain a final exit visa.

However, the same lawyer contended that holding an expired iqama in Saudi Arabia is not a reason for arrest.

“A policeman is not authorised to arrest a foreign resident because of the iqama expiry,” Al Shalan previously said.

He explained that failure to renew the iqama in due time is automatically punishable by a fine, unless there is another reason than the document expiry for arresting the holder.

A fine of SR500 is imposed on the expatriate who fails to obtain the resident ID in a maximum of 90 days after entering the kingdom.

The Saudi General Directorate of Passports has said that a medical test is among the requirements for a foreigner to be issued a resident ID via the government platform Absher or Muqeem portal for his/her employer after also paying the related fees.

Expatriates in the kingdom can get three-month residency permits with a renewal option for the same period, and they can save a digital copy of the iqama on their smartphones under a system launched in 2021.

The quarterly renewal of iqama allows the expatriate to pay for the dependent’s fee on a quarterly basis too.

According to a government payment system, the iqama fee can be paid on a quarterly- or biannual basis.

Saudi Arabia, a country of around 32.2 million people, is home to a large community of foreign workers.

Foreigners make up around 13.4 million or 41.5 per cent of the kingdom’s overall population, according to a recent census.

Saudi authorities recently introduced a set of facilities for expatriates.

Foreign residents leaving on exit/re-entry visas can now return to Saudi Arabia until the last day of their valid visas.

More From Saudi

STOCK Lucid Motors

EV maker Lucid to raise $1b from Saudi's PIF affiliate

baby-1711361803087

Video: Two-year-old girl survives fall from 4th floor

Stock-AlUla-Sharaan-Resort-(Saudi-Arabia)

Saudi 'hotel in a mountain' project strikes milestone

Zamzam water

Safeguarding Zamzam water: Saudi's enduring legacy

Video: Two-year-old girl survives fall from 4th floor

Unified GCC biometric fingerprint linkage under way

Safeguarding Zamzam water: Saudi's enduring legacy

Saudi Arabia announces Eid Al Fitr holidays

Shun filming at Islam’s holiest sites, cleric says

Shun filming at Islam’s holiest sites, cleric says

Watch: Guests locked up to gulp down dinner

Watch: Guests locked up to gulp down dinner

Uae: flu shot mandated for umrah, hajj, 'rrr' star ram charan to reunite with 'pushpa' director, six killed in militant attack on pakistan naval base, dubai's one za'abeel gets its guinness world record, madonna to end 'celebration' tour with free show.

Gulf News

Get Breaking News Alerts From Gulf News

We’ll send you latest news updates through the day. You can manage them any time by clicking on the notification icon.

government visit visa saudi arabia

Dear Reader,

This section is about Living in UAE and essential information you cannot live without.

Register to read and get full access to gulfnews.com

By clicking below to sign up, you're agreeing to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Forgot password

IMAGES

  1. Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa: Everything You Need To Know

    government visit visa saudi arabia

  2. New Saudi Visit Visa at Consulate for All Countries

    government visit visa saudi arabia

  3. What are the different types of visas in Saudi Arabia?

    government visit visa saudi arabia

  4. Saudi Arabia issued 12 Lakh visas

    government visit visa saudi arabia

  5. Saudi Visit Visa 2023: Everything You Need to Know- Wego Travel Blog

    government visit visa saudi arabia

  6. PROCEDURE TO APPLY FOR A FAMILY VISIT VISA IN SAUDI ARABIA

    government visit visa saudi arabia

VIDEO

  1. Saudi Family Visit Visa Full Service

  2. Family Visit Visa Extension Latest Update

  3. How to apply Saudi Arabia Multiple Entry Tourist Visa Step By Step Guide

  4. Personal Visit Visa Saudi Arabia Good News

  5. Personal visit visa of saudi arabia

  6. Saudi arabia family visit visa a to z information

COMMENTS

  1. Government Visit Visa

    Click on "Apply for a visa to enter the Kingdom by Individuals" and complete the online request for a Government visit visa. It is important to record the request number on the application and present it to the consulate. To apply, Please use one of the authorized travel agencies by the Embassy. Note: to follow up on your visa status, please ...

  2. Saudi eVisa

    Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to the world through its new tourist visa. Through the fast and easy-to-use online portal, international visitors from 63 eligible countries can apply for an eVisa and discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse and breathtaking landscapes; from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea to the ...

  3. Government Visa

    You May Also Apply For the Visa by: Applying in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Via Mail to the Embassy's address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037. Through the Embassy's authorized travel agencies.

  4. Tourist visas

    Tourist visas - Visit Saudi Official Website Tourist visas. If you want to discover the warm hospitality, ancient heritage and diverse landscapes of Saudi Arabia, you can apply for a tourist visa online or on arrival. Find out the eligibility criteria, the visa fee and the tourism activities that you can enjoy with the tourist visa.

  5. Family Visit Request

    Service Description. This service aim to enable residents to send visit request of their first degree relatives like; parents, wife and kids. The time required to implement the service: 3 business days. NOTE: In exceptional cases, execution of the request may be delayed due to some additional actions.

  6. Visa Types

    Personal Visit Visa; Hajj and Umrah Visa Student Visa; You May Also Apply For the Visa by: Applying in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Via Mail to the Embassy's address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037. Through the Embassy's authorized travel agencies. General Note Visitors should not overstay their visas.

  7. Personal Visit Visa

    To fill your online application and make a visa payment, please log on to https://visa.mofa.gov.sa . (Guideline for Enjaz) Health insurance must be purchased from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Options for local health insurance providers will appear upon processing your Enjaz form. A visa referral note: indicating number and date of visa, issued ...

  8. Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements

    Are you planning to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, business or cultural exchange? Find out the visa requirements for your specific traveling needs on the official website of Visit Saudi. Discover the ancient heritage, breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities that Saudi Arabia has to offer. Apply for a one-year, multiple entry visa online and have a seamless journey.

  9. Ministry of Foreign Affairs Launches Unified National Visa 'KSA VISA

    Voice reader. Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Executive Affairs, Abdulhadi bin Ahmed Al-Mansouri, launched the Unified National Visa Platform (KSA VISA) at the second edition of the Digital Government Forum today. The Unified National Platform links more than 30 ministries, authorities, and private ...

  10. Saudi eVisa

    Resend Activation. Apply now for an Electronic Tourist Visa to visit Saudi Arabia in 3 simple steps from the Official eVisa Portal.

  11. Work Visits Visa

    An e-service provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Ministry's electronic visa services website, which enables applicants to request approval for two categories of visits to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first category, known as 'Individual' visits, covers all visa services aimed at individuals based abroad looking to work in the kingdom, while the second category ...

  12. Visas, Tourism and Entertainment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to enforce an abundant amount of effort and investment in the tourism sector. This section highlights the future aspirations and opportunities of tourism by taking you through the kingdom's tourism strategy, the newly implemented steps to issue a tourist visa, which also highlights the list of eligible countries, insight into the Tourism Development Fund ...

  13. Saudi Arabia International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  14. Tourist Visa

    The Embassy of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20037. Regular Business Hours Monday - Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

  15. Saudi Arabia eVisa: A Complete Guide for Beginners

    Saudi e-Visa is a required travel authorization for travelers visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. This online process for Electronic Travel Authorisation for Saudi Arabia was implemented from 2019 by Saudi Government, with the goal of enabling any of the future eligible travelers to apply for an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia.

  16. Tourist Visa

    Visa on Arrival. Tourist can apply for Visa on Arrival* at one of Saudi Arabia's entry points if any of the following conditions apply: The tourist is from one of the countries in the eligible countries list. The tourist is holding USA, United Kingdom, or Schengen visas. The following requirements must apply: The visa is valid.

  17. Entry requirements

    You can apply for an e-visa if you are a tourist. You must get an e-visa to perform Umrah. E-visas are: valid for 365 days from the date of issue. for visits of up to 90 days. for multiple entries ...

  18. Visa policy of Saudi Arabia

    Saudi entry stamp received at Jeddah Airport Saudi exit stamp received at Jeddah Airport. Visitors to Saudi Arabia must obtain a visa, unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries.. Some visitors are eligible to obtain a visa online or on arrival while others needs to apply at one of the Saudi diplomatic missions in advance. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

  19. A Complete Guide on all Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia

    2 Types of Visas in Saudi Arabia. 2.1 Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa. 2.2 Saudi Arabia EVisa. 2.3 Saudi Arabia Business Visa. 2.4 Saudi Arabia Visitor Visa. 2.5 Saudi Arabia Work Visa. 2.6 Saudi Arabia Hajj Visa/Umrah Visa. 2.7 Student Visa of Saudi Arabia. 2.8 Saudi Arabian Government Visa.

  20. Saudi Arabia: Regulation Establishes New Type of Visa

    To obtain the visa, applicants must (1) submit a complete visa application form, (2) hold a valid passport, (3) obtain medical insurance accepted by hospitals in Saudi Arabia, (4) register the address where they will be staying in the kingdom, and (5) pay the visa fee. All applicants must be above the age of 18, unless they are accompanied by ...

  21. Saudi Arabia's National Unified Portal for Government Services

    All your KSA government services in one unified national e-government portal. Most used services. Business and entrepreneurship. Education and training. Family and life events. Hajj and Umrah. Health services. Housing, Municipal services and utilities. Information, communication and postal services.

  22. A Visit Visa can be renewed a week before its expiry

    5 November 2023 - The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has requested visit visa holders, staying in the Kingdom, to renew its validity, seven days prior to the expiry of the visa. Applicants do not need to visit the Jawazat offices for the renewal and applications can be submitted online. Single entry visit visa holders can visit the Ministry of Interior ...

  23. Saudi Arabia Government Visit Visa

    Help. Customer Feedback. +44 20 337 11 554. [email protected]. Gulfvisa Ltd. 17 Hanover Square, Mayfair, London, W1S 1HU, UK. Those who have been invited by a Government Body in Saudi Arabia require a valid Government visa from the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the UK. Gulfvisa is an accredited visa agent in Mayfair which specialises in providing ...

  24. Visas

    Non-immigrant Visa to the United States for citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh and at the Consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran. Please visit our Global Support Services (GSS) website for complete information on applying for a nonimmigrant U.S. visa, including a directory of nonimmigrant visa categories .

  25. Almosafer's CEO on Navigating the Future of Saudi Tourism

    Saudi Arabia's shift towards broader offerings, digital integration, and infrastructure improvements taps into new growth within travel. Javascript is required for this site to display correctly ...

  26. Saudi Arabia: Valid iqama a must for final exit visa

    Saudi Arabia, a country of around 32.2 million people, is home to a large community of foreign workers. Foreigners make up around 13.4 million or 41.5 per cent of the kingdom's overall ...