Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism recently announced a new Ministerial Decree that will allow potential travelers a faster and simplified journey into the Kingdom by applying for Saudi eVisa online. The new regulations will allow Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents to apply for an eVisa through Visit Saudi’s online portal.
Nations that, along with Saudi Arabia comprise the GCC:
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
GCC residents who wish to travel to the Kingdom must meet the eVisa requirements:
- Meet the nationality requirements
- Hold relevant supporting documents
- Intend to visit Saudi Arabia for the purposes and time allowed by the eVisa
- Abide by local laws and the terms and conditions of the visa for the entirety of their stay
Documents needed to get a Saudi eVisa Online from a GCC country:
- Passport by one of the 49 eligible countries with at least 6 months of validity left
- A recent, passport-style photograph of the GCC resident
- Credit or debit card to pay for the application fee
Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, said: “Elevating the visitor experience is at the heart of the tourism sector’s future. Through harnessing digital innovation and streamlining the traveler journey, Saudi Arabia is welcoming more and more visitors from all corners of the globe.
Tourists from the UK, USA, or any Schengen Agreement countries with valid tourist or business visas will be applicable for a visa on arrival. They need to have a visa that has been used at least once to enter the country. Such tourists can get a 12-month tourism visa on arrival in Saudi without needing to apply in advance.
Saudi Arabia is opening doors to the world through its new visa. Through the online portal, visitors from 49 eligible countries can now apply for an eVisa and discover Saudi’s rich heritage, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
The eVisa will be a one-year, multiple-entry visa, allowing tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country. Furthermore, it covers tourism-related activities and Umrah, however, excludes the Hajj season and excludes other activities such as studying.
“The new rules will account for greater opportunities for business in Saudi Arabia for both tourism and business sectors. Investors will be attracted to the easy accessibility that it provides and showcase their expertise, which will boost several business markets,” said Mr. Hatem Elsafty, CEO of Business Link.
If you do not meet the above-mentioned requirements, then get your visa through your nearest Saudi embassy.
The below documents are required to obtain the visa through embassies:
- Proof of accommodation
- Return ticket
- Proof of employment
- Bank statements
- Flight itinerary details
- Personal information including home address
