Saudi Arabia Visa Guide 2026
Saudi Arabia opened to international tourists in 2019 and the eVisa process is now one of the fastest and simplest in the region. Citizens of 60+ countries can apply online, receive approval within hours, and arrive in the Kingdom within days. This guide covers everything luxury travellers need to know about Saudi Arabia entry requirements, the tourist visa application, dress codes, and practical considerations for 2026.
Saudi Arabia Entry — Key Facts
Curated for discerning travellers
60+ Countries EligibleTourist eVisa — Who Qualifies
Citizens of over 60 countries are eligible for the Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa, including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, all EU member states, Japan, South Korea, UAE, and most other developed nations. The full list is on visitsaudi.com. Citizens of some countries may be eligible for visa-on-arrival at major Saudi airports — check the Saudi Embassy website for your specific nationality.
Approved in HoursHow to Apply
The Saudi tourist eVisa is applied for entirely online at visitsaudi.com — there is no embassy visit required. You will need: a valid passport (minimum 6 months remaining), a passport-style photo, credit or debit card for payment. The process takes approximately 10 minutes. Most approvals arrive within a few hours; occasionally within 24 hours. The visa is valid for 1 year from issue, with up to 90 days per stay.
Travel Insurance IncludedCost & What's Included
The Saudi tourist eVisa costs approximately SAR 535 (USD 135–145). Notably, Saudi Arabia includes travel insurance in the visa fee — a feature unique in the region and of genuine value for luxury travellers. The insurance covers medical emergencies during your stay. There are no additional charges upon arrival, and the eVisa is valid for multiple entries within the 1-year validity period.
Tourist-Friendly RulesDress Code & Practical Notes
Saudi Arabia's dress code for tourists was significantly relaxed in 2019. International female visitors are no longer required to wear abayas. The practical guideline is modest dress in public (shoulders and knees covered). At resort pools and hotel facilities, standard Western swimwear is completely acceptable. Photography of people requires consent; photography near government buildings or religious sites should be approached thoughtfully. Arabic is the official language but English is widely spoken at all luxury hotel and tourism facilities.
Saudi Arabia Travel — Practical Tips for Luxury Visitors
Currency and Payments
The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is pegged to the USD at approximately 3.75. All major credit cards are accepted at luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Cash is useful for small purchases in souqs and markets. ATMs are widely available throughout major cities and tourist areas. Tipping is not culturally expected but is appreciated — 10% for exceptional service is appropriate at luxury establishments.
Getting Around
The Haramain High Speed Railway connects Madinah, Jeddah, and Makkah at up to 300km/h. Private charter flights connect major cities and are the standard for luxury multi-destination circuits. Seaplane transfers connect Jeddah marina to Red Sea island resorts (20–30 minutes). Uber operates in all major Saudi cities and is the recommended transport in city areas. Blacklane luxury car service is available for airport transfers.
Health and Safety
Saudi Arabia requires no specific vaccinations for entry from most countries. Tap water in major cities is technically safe but bottled water is standard practice. Saudi Arabia has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the Middle East — it is consistently rated one of the safest destinations in the region for international visitors. Emergency medical services are of a high standard in major cities and luxury resorts have medical facilities on site or on call.
Best Time to Visit
October through March is optimal across all destinations — air temperatures range from 18°C in the evenings to 30°C during the day. April and May are warm but manageable. June through September is extremely hot in most of the country (35–45°C), though the Asir highlands (Abha, 2,200m) are cool year-round. The Red Sea is warm enough for swimming year-round and excellent for diving from October to April.
Saudi Arabia Visa — Common Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia as a tourist in 2026?+
Citizens of 60+ countries can apply online for a Saudi tourist eVisa at visitsaudi.com. This includes the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, all EU member states, Japan, South Korea, and most other developed nations. The eVisa costs approximately SAR 535 (around USD 143) and allows a 90-day stay within a 1-year validity period.
How long does the Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa take to process?+
The Saudi tourist eVisa is typically approved within minutes to a few hours. The application is entirely online at visitsaudi.com and requires a passport photo, passport details, and a credit card. Most applicants receive approval the same day. It is advisable to apply at least 48–72 hours before travel to allow time for any queries.
How much does a Saudi Arabia tourist visa cost in 2026?+
The Saudi tourist eVisa costs SAR 535 (approximately USD 135–145 depending on exchange rate) for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa valid for 1 year from the date of issue, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit. Travel insurance is included in the fee.
What is the Saudi Arabia dress code for tourists?+
Saudi Arabia significantly relaxed its dress code for international tourists in 2019. Female visitors are no longer required to wear abayas in public. Modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees covered is the practical guideline in public areas. At Red Sea resort islands and hotel pools, standard Western swimwear is acceptable. In religious sites, more conservative dress is required for both men and women.
Is alcohol available in Saudi Arabia for tourists in 2026?+
Saudi Arabia remains officially alcohol-free. All hotels, restaurants, and resorts operate without alcohol. The country's high-end bars and lounges serve sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails, mocktails, and premium beverages. Most luxury travellers who visit Saudi Arabia comment that the absence of alcohol is far less noticeable than expected — the food, the atmosphere, and the experiences more than compensate.
Can I visit Makkah and Madinah as a non-Muslim tourist?+
Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Makkah or the immediate central Haram precinct of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. However, Madinah city as a whole — including its luxury hotels, the Al Madinah Museum, Quba Mosque area, and surrounding districts — is open to all visitors. Non-Muslim tourists can visit Madinah and stay at any of the city's five-star hotels.
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