This article is reviewed regularly by Wego’s editorial team to ensure that the content is up to date & accurate.
Updated June 2023
Saudi Arabia, celebrated for its rich historical heritage, diverse culture, and magnificent natural beauty, has been known for its strict visa regulations, limiting international visitors’ access to its treasures. However, recent advancements signal a new era of openness and potential. Saudi Arabia has unveiled significant changes to its visa rules, introducing new types of visit visas and e-visa entry permits for travelers.
Table of Contents
Latest news
The Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia recently announced a streamlined entry process for tourists holding UK, US, and Schengen tourism visas, as well as permanent residents from any EU country. These individuals can now apply for an instant eVisa through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, making their entry to Saudi Arabia more convenient.
In addition, individuals with a valid tourism or business visa from the US, UK, or any Schengen state have been granted an exception if the visa has been used at least once to enter the issuing country. This exception also extends to the first-degree relatives of the visa holder, as well as to individuals who hold permanent residence in the US, EU, or UK.
In line with its efforts to facilitate procedures and provide a comprehensive tourism experience, KSA allows holders of visas from the U.S., U.K. and Schengen Area, as well as their residents, to obtain a tourist e-visa in no time via the @KSAmofaEN website. pic.twitter.com/oOcB1Smdpz
— وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) June 12, 2023
Furthermore, holders of permanent residence are also able to facilitate the entry of their first-degree relatives into the Kingdom. These relatives can obtain an upon-arrival visa at any air, land, or sea port in Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry also emphasized that tourism visas do not provide holders with the authorization to participate in either the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage during the designated pilgrimage season.
Book cheap flights to Saudi Arabia
Saudi new visas 2023
Saudi Oman visa
The Saudi Arabia-Oman unified tourist visa is a new visa option that enables tourists to visit both countries with a single application and fee. It is part of the joint efforts to enhance tourism and investment cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Oman. This Saudi Oman visa is designed to attract foreign tourists, as well as residents of GCC countries, to experience the abundant natural wonders and cultural treasures of both Saudi Arabia and Oman.
The eagerly anticipated unified Saudi-Oman tourist visa has not been introduced yet, and information regarding its specifics remains limited. However, travelers wishing to explore Saudi Arabia can apply for the existing Saudi tourist visa, while the Oman tourist e-visa is available for those planning a visit to the Sultanate.
Please note that this visa is exclusively for tourism purposes and does not grant permission for work or study in either country.
For more information, visit our dedicated article below.
Saudi visiting investor visa
In order to promote foreign investment and stimulate economic growth, the Saudi government has introduced an electronic visa specifically designed for visiting investors. This new visa category, developed in collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Investment, aims to facilitate business exploration in various sectors within the kingdom.
At present, the visa is only available to nationals from select countries, with plans for expansion in future phases.
Please note that this visa program is still in its early stages, and as a result, there is limited information available online. We will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.
For more information, visit our dedicated article below.
Saudi instant visa
The Saudi instant visa is essentially a newly introduced e-visa entry permit granted to individuals who hold permanent residency in the United Kingdom, United States, or European Union countries, as well as those who possess valid visas from the UK, US, or Schengen Area.
This visa is available regardless of the applicant’s nationality. The application process for this visa is conveniently conducted online, and upon fulfilling the required procedures and regulations, the e-visa will be promptly issued.
Please note that the Saudi Ministry of Tourism emphasized that this Saudi tourist e-visa cannot be used to perform Hajj or Umrah during the pilgrimage season.
For more information, visit our dedicated article below.
