The Saudi Arabia tourist visa is now available as an electronic visa (eVisa) for citizens of 66 countries. The Saudi tourist visa was introduced in 2019 as part of Vision 2030, marking the first time the Kingdom opened its doors to international leisure travelers.
What Is the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa?
The Saudi Arabia tourist visa – officially called the Saudi eVisa – is an electronic travel authorization that allows international visitors to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. Before 2019, Saudi Arabia did not issue tourist visas at all. The country was effectively closed to leisure tourism, with entry limited to religious pilgrims, business travelers, and work visa holders.
The introduction of the Saudi tourist visa transformed the country into an accessible travel destination. Visitors can now explore ancient archaeological sites, modern cities, Red Sea beaches, desert landscapes, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Key Features of the Saudi Tourist Visa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Electronic visa (eVisa) |
| Validity | 1 year from issue date |
| Entries | Multiple entry |
| Maximum stay | 90 days total |
| Eligible nationalities | 66 countries |
| Application | 100% online |
| Processing | 24-72 hours |
| Cost | ~$145 USD |
Saudi Tourist Visa vs Other Saudi Visa Types
Saudi Arabia offers several visa types for different purposes. Understanding the differences helps travelers choose the right option.
Tourist eVisa
The tourist eVisa is designed for leisure travel. It allows:
– Sightseeing and cultural exploration
– Attending events, concerts, and sports
– Visiting family and friends
– Performing Umrah (outside Hajj season)
– Desert tours, diving, and adventure activities
Business Visa
For business meetings, conferences, and professional activities. Requires invitation from a Saudi company and is processed through the embassy. Not available as an eVisa.
Work Visa
For employment in Saudi Arabia. Requires a Saudi employer sponsor and extensive documentation. Processed through the embassy with medical examination requirements.
Hajj and Umrah Visas
Dedicated religious pilgrimage visas. Hajj visas are issued through authorized Hajj operators during the annual pilgrimage season. Umrah can be performed on the tourist eVisa outside of Hajj season.
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Saudi Arabia to another destination. Limited validity and stay duration. Available through airlines for short layovers.
What You Can Do with a Saudi Tourist Visa
The Saudi Arabia tourist visa opens up a wide range of travel experiences across the Kingdom.
Top Destinations for Tourist Visa Holders
– **Riyadh** – Modern capital with museums, shopping, and the iconic Kingdom Centre Tower
– **Jeddah** – Historic port city with the UNESCO-listed Al-Balad old town and Red Sea corniche
– **AlUla** – Ancient Nabataean tombs and dramatic desert landscapes rivaling Petra
– **NEOM** – Futuristic megaproject region with pristine coastline
– **Abha** – Mountain city in the Asir region with cool climate and stunning scenery
– **Al Khobar and Dammam** – Eastern province cities with Gulf coast beaches
– **Taif** – Mountain resort city known for rose gardens and pleasant climate
– **Edge of the World** – Dramatic cliff formation near Riyadh
Events and Entertainment
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in entertainment and events since opening to tourism:
– Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah
– Riyadh Season entertainment festival
– Jeddah Season cultural events
– MDL Beast music festival
– Esports tournaments
– International concerts and performances
– Cultural heritage festivals
Saudi Tourist Visa Requirements
Requirements for the Saudi Arabia tourist visa are straightforward:
– Valid passport with at least six months remaining validity
– Passport from one of 66 eligible countries
– Recent passport-style photograph
– Active email address
– Credit or debit card for payment
– Medical insurance (automatically included in visa fee)
The passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. The photograph must have a white background with no glasses or head coverings (except for religious purposes).
Saudi Tourist Visa Cost
The Saudi Arabia tourist visa costs SAR 535 (approximately $145 USD) through the official portal at visa.visitsaudi.com. This includes:
– Base visa fee: SAR 395 (~$105 USD)
– Mandatory medical insurance: SAR 140 (~$37 USD)
Third-party agencies offer the same visa for $199 to $299 USD, adding their service fees. The official portal is the most affordable and equally efficient option.
Saudi Tourist Visa Application Process
Applying for the Saudi Arabia tourist visa takes about 15 to 20 minutes online:
1. Visit visa.visitsaudi.com and create an account
2. Complete the application form with personal, passport, and travel details
3. Upload passport scan and passport-style photograph
4. Pay the visa fee by credit or debit card
5. Receive approval by email within 24 to 72 hours
6. Print the eVisa PDF and carry it with your passport
Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa for Different Nationalities
US Citizens
US passport holders are eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa. The application process, cost, and validity are identical to other eligible nationalities. US citizens can apply entirely online without visiting an embassy.
UK and EU Citizens
Citizens of all EU member states and the United Kingdom can apply for the Saudi tourist eVisa. This includes recently added countries like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Croatia.
Asian Citizens
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), and several Central Asian nations are on the eligible list. India, Pakistan, Philippines, and Indonesia are not currently eligible.
Australian and New Zealand Citizens
Both Australia and New Zealand are on the Saudi eVisa eligible list. Citizens can apply online and receive the same one-year, multiple-entry visa.
Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa: What Has Changed
The Saudi tourist visa program has evolved significantly since its 2019 launch:
– **2019:** eVisa program launched with 49 eligible countries
– **2020-2021:** COVID-19 restrictions temporarily suspended tourism
– **2022:** Program resumed with expanded eligibility (57 countries)
– **2023:** Further expansion to 63 countries, new entertainment seasons launched
– **2024:** Reached 66 eligible countries, tourism infrastructure expanded
– **2025-2026:** Continued expansion with new attractions and events
Saudi Arabia aims to attract 100 million annual visitors by 2030, and the tourist visa program is central to achieving this goal.
Travel Tips for Saudi Tourist Visa Holders
Cultural Awareness
Saudi Arabia has modernized rapidly, but visitors should be aware of local customs:
– Dress modestly in public areas, especially in conservative regions
– Respect prayer times when shops and businesses may close temporarily
– Photography of government buildings and military installations is prohibited
– Alcohol is not available in Saudi Arabia
– Public displays of affection should be kept minimal
Practical Information
– Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR), pegged to USD at 3.75 SAR per dollar
– Language: Arabic (English widely spoken in cities and tourist areas)
– Climate: Hot desert climate; best visited October to March
– Transportation: Rental cars, ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem), and domestic flights
– Connectivity: Good mobile coverage; local SIM cards available at airports
Frequently Asked Questions About the Saudi Tourist Visa
Is Saudi Arabia open to tourists?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is fully open to international tourists. The Saudi tourist eVisa program has been active since 2019 and currently covers 66 eligible countries. All tourism activities, events, and entertainment are operating normally.
Can I drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
No, alcohol is prohibited throughout Saudi Arabia. This applies to all residents and visitors regardless of nationality.
Do women need a male guardian to visit Saudi Arabia?
No, women can travel independently to Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa. The male guardian requirement has been removed for tourists. Women over 18 can apply for and use the eVisa independently.
Is Saudi Arabia safe for tourists?
Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists. The country has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure and security. Petty crime rates are low, and tourist areas are well-maintained. Exercise normal precautions as you would in any destination.
Can I visit Mecca and Medina on a tourist visa?
Muslim visitors can perform Umrah in Mecca and Medina on the tourist eVisa outside of Hajj season. Non-Muslim visitors can transit through these cities but cannot enter the holy sites. For Hajj, a dedicated Hajj visa is required.
Last updated: July 2026. The evisasaudiarabia.info editorial team provides current information on Saudi Arabia tourism and visa policies.
Sources: visa.visitsaudi.com, Saudi Tourism Authority, visitSaudi.com
