Last updated: September 15, 2026
If you thought about visiting Saudi Arabia as a tourist a few years ago, chances are it felt nearly impossible. But that’s completely changed. Tourism in Saudi Arabia is now easier and more accessible than ever. The Kingdom has opened its doors to the world with a fast, simple electronic visa system, making it possible for almost anyone to book a trip to Saudi Arabia and arrive within just a few days.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything related to traveling to Saudi Arabia and the visa process: the different visa types, approximate prices, the entry requirements for Saudi Arabia you need to prepare, and answers to the most common questions on the mind of any foreign traveler planning a visit to Saudi Arabia.
Types of Saudi Arabia Visas
Not all visas are the same, so it’s important to know which category your trip falls under:
- Tourist eVisa: The most common option for foreign visitors, and the main focus of this guide.
- Umrah Visa: Specifically for Muslims performing Umrah, with different procedures from the tourist visa.
- Business Visa: For those traveling for business purposes or meetings.
- Family Visit Visa: For those with relatives or contacts residing in Saudi Arabia.
- Transit (Stopover) Visa: For travelers passing through Saudi Arabia between flights, allowing a stay of up to 4 days (96 hours). How to get it:
- If you’re booked through Saudia or flynas: the visa is issued automatically when you book your flight on the airline’s own website, and it’s sent straight to your email — no extra steps needed.
- If you’re booked with another airline: you can apply directly through the official visa platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, select “Transit Visa,” fill in your details and flight information, and pay the fee online.
The Saudi Arabia eVisa System
Most foreign nationalities — from the US and Europe to Asia and beyond — are now eligible to apply for the tourist visa entirely online, without needing to visit an embassy or consulate. The process is simple:
- Go to the official Saudi Arabia visa platform.
- Fill in your personal and passport details.
- Upload a personal photo and a scan of your passport.
- Pay the fee (which includes mandatory health insurance).
- Receive your approval, usually within minutes to a few days.
The visa is valid for a full year from the date of issue, allows multiple entries, and each visit can last up to 90 days.
Applicants can complete the process directly through the official website, which is the only trusted source for submitting a visa application — be cautious of any third-party sites requesting unofficial extra fees.
Approximate Prices
- Tourist eVisa: Around 480 SAR (~$127 USD), including mandatory health insurance.
- Umrah Visa: Fees vary depending on the season and issuing provider (usually through licensed companies and offices), and aren’t standardized like the tourist visa.
- Business Visa and Family Visit Visa: Fees vary based on the type of application and the sponsoring party — it’s best to confirm directly through the official platform or the inviting entity.
- Transit (Stopover) Visa: Free if booked through Saudia or flynas specifically. If booked with another airline, it costs approximately 300 SAR (~$80), including health insurance.
The prices listed are approximate and subject to change depending on nationality and timing — it’s always best to confirm the actual price at the time of application through the official website.
Quick Comparison Table of Visa Types
| Visa Type | Duration | Number of Entries | Available For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist (eVisa) | One year, up to 90 days per visit | Multiple | Most nationalities |
| Umrah | Depends on the season | Single or multiple | Muslims only |
| Business | Varies by application | Single or multiple | Business travelers |
| Family Visit | Varies by application | Single or multiple | Those with relatives in Saudi Arabia |
| Transit (Stopover) | Up to 4 days (96 hours) | Single | Saudia and flynas passengers |
Entry Requirements for Saudi Arabia You Need to Prepare
Before you plan your trip to Saudi Arabia, make sure you have:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from your entry date.
- A confirmed accommodation booking (hotel or any place of stay) covering your entire stay.
- A round-trip flight ticket or other proof of your departure from the country after your visit ends.
- Health insurance (automatically included in the tourist visa fee).
These requirements may be requested during your application or upon arrival at the airport, so it’s always best to have them ready in advance and keep a copy on your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my tourist visa? Extensions aren’t always easily available for the tourist visa, so it’s best to plan the length of your visit from the start within the allowed 90 days.
Is the tourist visa the same as the Umrah visa? No, they’re completely different. If your intention is to perform Umrah, you’ll need to apply for the dedicated Umrah visa, not the tourist visa.
Can I visit Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla on the same visa? Yes, the tourist visa allows you to travel freely between all regions of Saudi Arabia while visiting the country (except entry into the Haram area in Makkah if you’re not Muslim).
Final Tips Before You Travel
- Get comprehensive travel insurance (in addition to the mandatory health insurance) to cover your luggage and any flight delays.
- Keep a copy of your visa approval on your phone — it may be requested upon arrival.
Saudi Arabia is now a more accessible destination than ever, and the opportunity to explore tourism in Saudi Arabia is open to anyone who plans their trip properly. With a bit of preparation and a clear understanding of the entry requirements, your journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can be smooth from the very first step.
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Disclaimer: Visa systems and prices are subject to change. Always verify the latest details through the official Saudi Arabia visa website before traveling.
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