Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements

Citizens from 63 countries including the US, UK, EU nations, Australia, Japan, and China can obtain a tourist e-Visa online or on arrival. GCC nationals (UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman) enter visa-free. Other nationalities must apply through Saudi embassies.

The e-Visa allows tourism, Umrah (outside Hajj season), visiting friends/family, and attending events. Apply at visa.visitsaudi.com, receive approval within minutes, valid for 1 year with multiple entries and up to 90 days per visit.

The tourist e-Visa costs SAR 480 ($128) including mandatory health insurance. This is a one-time fee for the 1-year multiple-entry visa. Hajj and Umrah visas have different fee structures through authorized agents.

Saudi Arabia has a strong approval rate of approximately 88% for the tourist e-Visa program. German and Western applicants see rates above 98%, while some nationalities face slightly more scrutiny.

Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca or the central area of Medina. Muslims can perform Umrah on a tourist visa outside Hajj season. Hajj requires a special Hajj visa obtained through authorized tour operators.

Modest dress is required for all visitors. Women no longer need to wear abayas but should dress modestly (loose clothing, covered shoulders and knees). Men should avoid shorts in public areas.

Required: valid passport (6+ months validity), recent digital photo, email address, and payment card. No invitation letters, hotel bookings, or additional documents required for the tourist e-Visa.

Hajj visas are only issued during Hajj season through authorized operators with quotas. Umrah visas allow pilgrimage outside Hajj season. Both are separate from tourist visas and have specific requirements for Muslim travelers.