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Updated March 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is welcoming travellers from all over the world. While many international visitors set their sights on Saudi Arabia, travellers who want to pass through Saudi Arabia. However, for transiting through Saudi Arabia certain transit requirements have to be met.

For travellers who wish to pass through the Kingdom on their journey, here are the latest Saudi Arabia transit rules you need to know.

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Disclaimer: As rules are updated at a moment’s notice, we recommend contacting the airlines prior to making travel plan to get the latest information on transiting in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia transit news

According to the announcement made by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), an e-maritime transit visa for those coming to the Kingdom via cruise ships has been launched by the authorities in Saudi Arabia. As reported by the ministry, the e-maritime transit visa will be issued to those arriving via cruises, and the beneficiaries who wish to obtain the visa can submit their applications through MOFA’s electronic platform

Furthermore, as instructed by the authorities, the visa application should be filled up after purchasing the cruise ticket in cooperation with the Red Sea Development Company. The application data must be provided on the foreign ministry’s Visa Services Platform. The visa procedures will be processed after completing the application, and accordingly, the visa will be issued through the Saudi Embassy’s digital platform.

Saudi Arabia transit rules 2024

Travellers to Saudi Arabia who plan on transiting through the Kingdom and have a connecting time between their flights is more than 12 hours need to apply for a Saudi transit visa. A Saudi transit visa can be applied for through the Saudi-based airline the applicant is travelling with or a travel agency or through an established agent via the visa section of the Saudi Embassy in their country.

Please note that once your flight ticket has been issued, you must confirm with your airline or travel agency whether or not a Saudi transit visa is required. 

Do I require a visa for transit in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, travellers to Saudi Arabia who are not from one of the nationalities eligible for visa-free entry to the KSA need to apply for a Saudi transit visa, provided the connecting time between your flights is more than 12 hours. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issues transit visas for 96 hours without any extra charges, and the validity is up to three months. 

The GCC citizens, including nationals from Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, can enter Saudi Arabia visa-free and do not need to apply for a Saudi transit visa.

How do I get a Saudi transit visa?

A Saudi transit visa can be applied for through the Saudi-based airline the applicant is travelling with or a travel agency or through an established agent via the visa section of the Saudi Embassy in their country.

Saudi Transit Visa 2024: How to Prepare for Your Transit in Saudi Arabia?

Please note that once your flight tickets have been issued, make sure to confirm with your airline or travel agency if you need a transit visa for Saudi Arabia.

Saudi transit visa for Umrah

Travelers transiting through the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on their way to other destinations can seamlessly perform Umrah rituals and visit the Prophet’s Mosque.

 

To obtain a transit visa for Umrah, simply book your flight with Saudi Airlines or Flynas and apply for the visa through the unified national platform. Once your visa is approved, ensure you obtain an Umrah permit using the “Nusuk” or “Tawakkalna” apps upon arrival in the Kingdom.

With this type of visa, you can enjoy the following benefits:

  • the visa process is complimentary and immediate upon purchasing your flight ticket
  • the visa remains valid for up to 90 days
  • you can stay for up to 96 hours
  • you have the flexibility to travel between cities within the Kingdom

Umrah Visa: How to Apply For Visa to Perform the Pilgrimage?

 

Saudi Arabia transit visa fees

According to some sources, the costs for the different categories of the Saudi transit visa are as follows:

  • the Saudi transit visa for 48 hours – SAR 100 (approx. USD 26)
  • the Saudi transit visa for 96 hours – SAR 300 (approx. USD 79)

Please note that applicants must make sure to consult their airlines, travel agents, or their respective Saudi Embassy regarding the price of the Saudi transit visa.

Saudi Arabia transit visa requirements

The following are some of the documents required to apply for a Saudi transit visa:

  • a valid and original passport of a minimum of six (6) months.
  • a residence permit from the country you are applying from.
  • a passport-sized coloured photograph.
  • a Saudi Visa questionnaire filled out and signed.
  • the declaration of Saudi laws, signed.
  • proof of ticket booking, confirming your stay-over in Saudi Arabia.
  • printed visa application submitted through the Enjaz e-portal.
  • all visitors must fill out the Registration Immunization Information Form before travelling to the Kingdom. Exemptions apply for diplomats, government visit visa holders and aircrew.

Free Saudi transit visa

Saudi Arabia has released its latest visa policy scheme, the free Saudi transit visa. The visa allows foreign visitors to make a 4-day stopover in the Kingdom. Check out our dedicated article about free Saudi transit visas below.

Free Saudi Transit Visa: Everything You Need to Know About the New Stopover Visa

 

Saudi ticket visa

The Saudi ticket visa is a service program allowing holders of Saudia flight tickets to obtain a free 4-day visa with their purchase. Furthermore, the newly introduced service will be issued only for Hajj, Umrah, and tourism purposes.

For more info about the Saudia ticket visa package and how to apply for it, please refer to our dedicated article below.

Saudi Airlines Ticket Visa: How to Get a Free 4-Day Visa With Your Saudia Ticket

 

 

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