Saudi Arabia Entry Restrictions

Days have changed, and travelers now see Saudi Arabia through a new lens. Entry restrictions for Saudi Arabia have eased in recent times, but there are some important requirements to be aware of before you travel.

Visa Requirements

All foreigners entering Saudi Arabia need to apply for a visa. Whether you are here for work or tourism, a visa is a prerequisite. Previously, Saudi was open to foreigners for religious purposes only. However, Saudi Arabia's visa policy has radically transformed in recent years. Tourist visas were introduced in 2019, leading to simple and hassle-free online applications. This allows tourists to enter the country with ease. There are single entry and multiple entry Saudi visas that meet your requirements. You can apply for a Saudi visa online from Dubai, Canada, or your hometown through the official Saudi Arabian visa portal. For a more simplified process, reach out to our visa experts online.

The Saudi eVisa is a recent development that can be obtained on the same day. Around 63 countries and territories, including the United States and the United Kingdom, can apply for eVisa. Another alternative is a visa on arrival, accessible to certain nationalities. Citizens of Schengen countries can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days.

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of GCC countries, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are exempt from visa rules and regulations. They enjoy visa-free entry to Saudi Arabia. Holders of diplomatic or official passports from various countries may be exempt from visa requirements for certain types of visits.

COVID-19 Restrictions

Saudi Arabia introduced vaccination requirements for travelers as part of quarantine measures. But, as of October 2023, many COVID restrictions have been relaxed. Proof of vaccination is not mandatory for travelers staying less than 12 hours of airport transit.

Health Requirements

Since millions of travelers arrive every year for tourism or religious purposes, Saudi Arabia’s health authorities provide awareness about various infections and diseases.

• It is recommended that all travelers arriving in Saudi Arabia get the yellow fever vaccination. Depending on your citizenship, the yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory.
• If you are arriving for Umrah or Hajj season, you must submit a quadrivalent (ACYW135) vaccine certificate against meningococcal meningitis. It is considered valid only if issued between three years and ten days from the date of your arrival.
• If you are in Saudi Arabia for a long-term visit, show the bivalent oral poliovirus vaccine you took between 4 weeks and 12 months before your international travel.

Prohibited Items

To avoid any violation on entry, avoid carrying these things:

• Alcohol or dishes containing alcohol
• Narcotics, explosives, and weapons
• Pork and frog meat
• Illegal drugs
• Drones and wireless devices
• Religious statues and Christmas trees
• Pornography

Travel restrictions, quarantine measures, and entry requirements can change based on the evolving situation. Saudi Arabia may update its policies in response to health and safety considerations, so keep in touch with the embassy or visa agents for the most up-to-date knowledge.