Saudi Arabia is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Middle East: a land that combines a millennia-old archaeological heritage, breathtaking desert landscapes, and an Arab-Islamic culture unlike any other in the world. The birthplace of Islam and home to the religion's holiest sites, the country offers a travel experience completely different from anywhere else.
Among its greatest attractions are Mecca and Medina, places of profound spiritual significance; Madain Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the rock art of Jubbah; the historic Hejaz Railway; and the modern, vibrant capital, Riyadh. Traveling to Saudi Arabia means stepping into a cultural universe that surprises at every turn. That said, it is well worth familiarizing yourself with the country's laws and customs before you go, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. If you've already made up your mind, apply for your Saudi Arabia visa online and receive it by email within 24–48 business hours.
Do you need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, all travelers wishing to enter Saudi Arabia, regardless of the purpose of their visit, must obtain a visa before flying. The tourist visa (eVisa) is the most requested: available to citizens of more than 50 countries, it is valid for 1 year and allows a maximum stay of 90 days. It includes mandatory medical insurance coverage through Saudi companies.
Types of visas for Saudi Arabia
The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your trip:
Tourist eVisa
This is the most common visa for entering Saudi Arabia. It is processed entirely online, valid for 1 year with multiple entries, and allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days, either continuously or across multiple stays. Once those 90 days are used up, you must leave the country and wait 180 days before re-entering.
Some important conditions of this Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa:
- It does not allow access to Mecca or Medina for non-Muslim travelers.
- It does not authorize working or studying in the country.
- Travelers under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- It can be used for tourism, family visits, events, leisure, or Umrah (the latter exclusively for Muslims and outside the Hajj period).
Business Visa
Intended exclusively for business travel: entrepreneurs, investors, executives, or representatives of foreign companies. It must be applied for in person at the Saudi Arabian consulate or embassy corresponding to the applicant's place of residence.
Hajj Visa
A specific visa for Muslim pilgrims performing the Hajj. It is issued annually between mid-Shawwal and the 25th of Dhul-Qa'da, and can only be applied for at a Saudi consulate.
Muslim women cannot undertake this journey without a male relative over the age of 18; those over 45 may travel in a female group led by a man. This restriction does not apply to non-Muslim female travelers.
Transit visa for cruise passengers
If you are making a port call in Saudi Arabia as part of a cruise, you will need to obtain the Saudi Arabia transit visa, where you will find all the information you need.
How to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa
The Hajj and Business visas must be applied for in person at the nearest consulate or embassy. For the tourist visa (eVisa), the process is entirely online:
- On your own: access the official Saudi government portal, enter your details, and complete the payment by credit card. The process is not immediate.
- Through Visagov: fill out a simple form and receive your visa within 24–48 business hours, with assistance and a guarantee throughout the entire process.
Who needs a visa for Saudi Arabia?
The eVisa is available to citizens of more than 50 countries. You can check whether your nationality is eligible using our eligibility checker. If your country is not included in the program, you will need to contact the nearest embassy.
Requirements for applying for a Saudi Arabia visa
To obtain the eVisa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Valid passport with an expiration date of at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
- Recent passport-size photograph, in color.
- Credit card to pay the applicable fees.
- Mandatory medical insurance taken out with a Saudi company (handled during the application process).
Can the Saudi Arabia visa be modified after applying?
It is not possible to modify a visa application once payment has been made, unless the Saudi government identifies an error or requests additional documentation. In that case, only the correction flagged by the authorities will be allowed. If you have made an error and have an application in progress or a valid visa, you will not be able to submit a new application: you will need to contact the Saudi government directly.
How much does a Saudi Arabia visa cost?
The official eVisa fees amount to 354 SAR, plus 130 SAR for the mandatory medical insurance. In approximate terms:
- 354 SAR ≈ 80 EUR
- 130 SAR ≈ 30 EUR
The exact price in euros varies daily based on the Saudi riyal exchange rate. When applying through Visagov, there are no currency conversions or additional bank charges. Calculate the cost of your visa and start your application now.
How far in advance should you apply for the visa?
The eVisa is typically processed within 5–7 business days. There is also an express processing option, with a response in 24–48 business hours. In any case, it is recommended to start the application at least 15 days before your travel date to avoid any unexpected issues or additional documentation requests.
Which entry points can be used to enter Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has 13 international airports, though only some are authorized to admit eVisa holders. The airports currently accepting the online visa are:
- King Khalid International Airport (RUH) — Riyadh
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) — Jeddah
- King Fahd International Airport (DMM) — Dammam
- Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) — Medina
It is also possible to enter the country by land with the eVisa from two neighboring countries:
- From Bahrain: via the King Fahd Causeway border crossing, which connects to the city of Khobar, less than 50 km from Dammam.
- From the United Arab Emirates: via the Al Batha border crossing, on the western border of the UAE, approximately 500 km southeast of Riyadh.
Do you need vaccines to travel to Saudi Arabia?
It is recommended to have your vaccination record up to date and to complete any necessary vaccinations at least 4–6 weeks before traveling:
| Vaccine | Recommendation | Notes |
| Yellow fever | Required | For travelers coming from endemic countries. |
| Meningococcal (ACWY135) | Required | Required during the Mecca pilgrimage period. |
| Tetanus-diphtheria / Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis | Recommended | Regardless of travel destination. |
| MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) | Recommended | Regardless of travel destination. |
| Hepatitis A | Recommended | Recommended for all travelers. |
Depending on your personal situation and the nature of your trip, you may also need: hepatitis B, typhoid fever, rabies, flu, and pneumococcal vaccines.
* Always consult your doctor or an international vaccination center before traveling.
What is the currency of Saudi Arabia?
The official currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR). Euros and US dollars are also accepted at many establishments, though it is advisable to always carry some local cash.
- 1 EUR ≈ 4.44 SAR
- 1 USD ≈ 3.75 SAR
The exchange rate varies daily. Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 SAR; coins in 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 halalas (100 halalas = 1 SAR). ATMs are easy to find, and most hotels, restaurants, and cafés accept card payments.
What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
The best months to visit Saudi Arabia are January through May and September through December, when the weather is most pleasant and rainfall is scarce. In July, temperatures can reach 42°C (108°F); in January, the average drops to 20°C (68°F). You can find more information in our guides on the best time to travel to Saudi Arabia.
Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?
Generally speaking, yes. Safety in Saudi Arabia is good compared to other countries in the region: theft is uncommon and crime rates are low. It is advisable, however, to avoid border areas near Yemen, where incidents may occur. As for road safety, aggressive driving is the most common risk for tourists, so extra caution is needed when crossing busy roads.
Do you need a visa for a layover in Saudi Arabia?
In most cases, yes, a Saudi Arabia transit visa is required. The exception applies when the layover lasts less than 12 hours and the traveler does not leave the airport's transit area.
Tips for traveling to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has its own laws and traditions that are worth knowing before you travel. Some key points:
Dress code and behavior
- Foreign women must be covered to the ankles and wear long sleeves. Covering the hair is not mandatory.
- Men must wear long trousers at all times. Short-sleeved shirts are permitted.
- The customary greeting is a handshake. Public displays of affection are prohibited.
- During prayer times, some shops and restaurants may close temporarily.
Legal prohibitions
- Alcohol is prohibited, even in five-star hotels.
- Drug use is severely punished, including by the death penalty.
- Publicly expressing atheism or blasphemy can lead to serious legal consequences.
Recent changes in social laws
- Men and women without direct family ties may share public spaces.
- Foreign women may travel alone throughout the country, regardless of their marital status.
- Women may drive and rent vehicles independently.
Practical tips
- Tipping: not mandatory, but leaving 10% at restaurants and for taxi drivers is customary.
- Bargaining: in souks, the displayed price is often double what a local would pay. Start by offering half.
- Eating with your hands: if you do, use only your right hand, though all restaurants provide cutlery.
- Discover the must-see places in Saudi Arabia before planning your itinerary.
If you've already decided on your destination, don't wait any longer: apply for your Saudi Arabia visa with Visagov quickly and hassle-free, and receive it within 24–48 business hours directly to your inbox.
