Saudi Arabia has undergone one of the most dramatic tourism openings in the modern history of travel. In just six years since the kingdom launched its first-ever tourist visa in September 2019, the country has expanded eligibility to over 66 nationalities, created a fully digital e-visa system, and reduced the application-to-approval timeline to as little as 24 hours for most applicants. Combined with Vision 2030’s target of welcoming 150 million annual visitors by 2030, Saudi Arabia is now one of the most accessible destinations in the Middle East.
Saudi Tourist e-Visa 2026
- Validity: One year from date of issue, multiple entry
- Maximum stay per visit: 90 days
- Cost: SAR 402.21 (approximately USD 107), includes mandatory travel insurance
- Processing time: Typically 24 hours; often instant
- Eligibility: Citizens of 66+ countries. Additionally, holders of a valid Schengen, US or UK visa are also eligible
How to Apply
- Visit the official portal: visa.visitsaudi.com
- Complete the online application with passport details
- Upload a digital passport photo (white background)
- Pay SAR 402.21 by credit/debit card, fee includes mandatory travel insurance
- Receive e-visa by email, typically within 24 hours
Saudi Business Visa
- Application route: Via Saudi sponsor through Qiwa portal or Saudi embassy
- Validity: Single or multiple entry, typically 30–90 days per visit
- Required: Passport, invitation letter from Saudi sponsor, company documents, proof of accommodation
- Processing time: 3–10 business days
Saudi Work Visa and Iqama
Professionals taking up employment in Saudi Arabia obtain a work visa before travel, then convert it to an Iqama (residence permit) after arrival. The process:
- Employer applies for a work visa block through Ministry of Human Resources via Qiwa
- Employee applies for the work visa stamp at a Saudi embassy in their home country
- Within 90 days of arrival, employer applies for Iqama via Absher
- Employee provides biometrics and receives the Iqama card
Saudi Premium Residency (“Saudi Green Card”)
- Permanent tier: One-time fee of SAR 800,000 (≈USD 213,000). Indefinite residency, right to work and invest without sponsorship.
- Annual tier: SAR 100,000/year. Same rights, renewed annually.
Practical Notes
- GCC residents: Can enter Saudi Arabia with national ID, no visa required
- Dress code: Significantly relaxed, modest clothing recommended at religious sites, Western-style accepted in hotels and malls
- Alcohol: Not permitted, a legal requirement throughout the kingdom
- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR). ATMs and cards widely available
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Tourism 2026: AlUla, Red Sea and Top Destinations | UAE Visa Guide 2026: Every Visa Type Explained
Read next: Jobs in Saudi Arabia 2026: Nitaqat Saudisation, Work Visas and In-Demand Sectors
Primary source: the Saudi visa platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
