Saudi Arabia tourist visa introduced for GCC, UK, US and EU residents
GCC residents can apply for an e-visa, and UK, US and EU residents can obtain a visa on arrival.
There are so many reasons to visit Saudi Arabia, from its UNESCO World Heritage Sites to its vibrant dining scene. Now it has gotten a whole lot easier to explore the country’s history, festivals and culture, as the Ministry of Tourism has announced changes to tourist visas.
Permanent residents of the United Kingdom, United States and European Union can obtain a visa on arrival, which means no more waiting for approval before you travel. Holders of a valid tourist or business visa from the United Kingdom, United States or one of the Schengen Agreement countries can apply for a visa on arrival, providing that it has been used at least once to enter the country granting the visa.
GCC residents can apply for a Saudi Arabia e-visa through the online portal https://visa.visitsaudi.com/. In total, international visitors from 49 countries can apply for an e-visa. The e-visa is a one-year, multiple entry visa, which allows tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country. The visa covers tourism and Umrah, but excludes Hajj season.
Today’s announcement will make it easier than ever before to visit #SaudiArabia, a great example of collaboration across the sector to provide a seamless travel experience for our visitors. pic.twitter.com/3qpv9slLdz
— وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) September 1, 2022
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, signed the decree to make it quicker, easier and more accessible to visit Saudi Arabia. He explained: “Elevating the visitor experience is at the heart of the tourism sector’s future. Through harnessing digital innovation and streamlining the traveller journey, Saudi Arabia is welcoming more and more visitors from all corners of the globe”.
The move is in line with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz’s Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to attract visitors to the country. The kingdom opened its doors to tourists in 2019, and today more than one million e-visas have been issued.
So, as travel to the kingdom gets a whole lot smoother, keep up to date with the latest news in Saudi Arabia at FACT. Whether you’re after hotels, restaurants or things to do in Saudi Arabia, we’ve got you covered.
GO: Visit https://visa.visitsaudi.com for more information.
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