What is a Saudi Visa
A Saudi Visa is an official document that allows people from other countries to enter and stay in KSA for a specific purpose and period of time. There are different visa types depending on your purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, and religious pilgrimage. Some of the most common visas for KSA are:
- Tourist eVisa Great for general travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family.
- KSA Business Visa For attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities.
- Hajj & Umrah Visa Specifically for pilgrims traveling for religious purposes.
- Work Visa Required if you’re planning to obtain employment in Saudi Arabia.
- Student Visa For students enrolled in an educational institution.
- Transit Visa For travelers passing through the country en route to another country, and for very short stays of up to 96 days.
The validity of a KSA Visa depends on the type you apply for. The Tourist eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 90 days. Work Visas vary depending on your employment contract, similar to the Student Visa, which covers the length of your academic program. It’s always recommended to double-check the latest requirements for your visa type and nationality before applying.
Is a Visa Required for UAE Residents to Visit Saudi Arabia?
It is a requirement for UAE residents to obtain a visa to visit KSA. In contrast, UAE citizens are eligible to enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. KSA offers a quick and simple process for UAE residents to apply for the Electronic Visit Visa (eVisa). The KSA eVisa is a multiple-entry visa valid for one year or a single-entry visa valid for 90 days. Each entry allows a stay of up to 90 days, and the visa covers tourism-related activities, among other purposes. It is important to understand that visa requirements and policies can change, so it’s always advisable to check the official Saudi visa portal or consult with a visa service provider for the most up-to-date information.
Saudi Visa Types for UAE Residents
There are many visa types available for UAE residents, all with different purposes for travel and validity periods.
KSA Electronic Visit Visa
The most popular KSA Visa for UAE residents is the Saudi Tourist eVisa. This is a great option for visiting KSA for leisure, visiting friends or family, and performing Umrah (outside of the Hajj season) or conducting business. The KSA eVisa for UAE residents is valid for one year with multiple entries, or a single entry with a 90-day validity, and both allow stays of up to 90 days each time.
Transit Visa
If you’re passing through KSA on your way to another destination, the KSA transit Visa lets you stay in the Kingdom of KSA for up to 96 hours. It must be obtained for layovers longer than 12 hours and gives you the chance to briefly explore the country while you’re en route to your next destination.
Work Visa
The KSA Work Visa is needed if you’re relocating to KSA for a job. You must have an offer from a Saudi employer. These visas typically last one to two years and include sponsorship for legal employment and residency in the Kingdom. Depending on your contract and position, you can obtain either a Seasonal Work Visa, a Temporary Work Visa, or a Permanent Work Visa.
Hajj Visa
The KSA Hajj Visa is issued only during the Hajj season and is strictly for Muslims performing the pilgrimage. You can only obtain the Hajj Visa through Hajj tour operators authorized by the Saudi government. When you come to the Kingdom on a Hajj Visa, you are not authorized for general tourism or other travel purposes.
Education Visa (Student Visa)
If you’ve been accepted into a university or educational institution in KSA, you’ll need a KSA Student Visa. This type of visa allows you to stay in KSA for the duration of your studies. You can only obtain this visa once you have been accepted into an educational institute in KSA.
KSA Tourist eVisa for UAE Residents
The Saudi Tourist eVisa was first introduced by Saudi Arabia in September 2019. This made a huge step in the country’s efforts to bring in international tourism and diversify the economy. The eVisa was designed to make the visa process simpler, making entry into Saudi Arabia more accessible for travelers. In 2022, KSA expanded the eligibility to include residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, such as the UAE. KSA introduced the electronic KSA Visa for GCC residents to facilitate easier access for residents of the neighboring countries and strengthen their relationship within the Gulf region.
There are many benefits and advantages to the eVisa over traditional visa processes. It simplifies the application process, making it possible to complete the process entirely online without visiting the Saudi embassy or consulate. The eVisa also allows for multiple entries within the validity period, which makes travel to KSA more flexible. The application fee is also more affordable than traditional visa fees. Traditional visa applications often involve more paperwork, longer processing times, and in-person visits to embassies or consulates. The introduction of the eVisa has streamlined the process and made it significantly more convenient and accessible.
UAE residents applying for the KSA Tourist eVisa need to make sure their residency permit is valid for at least three months and their passport is valid for at least six months.
Are UAE Residents Eligible for the KSA eVisa?
Most UAE residents can apply for the Saudi eVisa, but there are a few important conditions to keep in mind. KSA Arabia officially expanded its eVisa eligibility to UAE residents in 2022.
To qualify for a KSA Visa for UAE residents, you must have:
- A valid UAE residency visa (with at least 3 months’ validity remaining)
- A passport valid for at least 6 more months
- Be at least 18 years old (minors can apply with a guardian)
- Pay the eVisa fee and purchase mandatory health insurance as part of the application
It’s important to note that not all nationalities are eligible, even if they live in the UAE. Citizens from Chad, Ethiopia, Iran, Libya, Palestine, and Syria are not eligible for the Saudi eVisa, even if they have UAE residency. Citizens from these countries must apply for a traditional visa through a KSA embassy, consulate, or authorized visa center. All other residents can typically apply online, making the process quick and hassle-free.
Saudi eVisa Validity
The electronic KSA Tourist Visa for UAE residents is valid for one year from the date it was issued, allowing multiple entries, or for 90 days, allowing a single entry. Both allow travelers to stay in KSA for up to 90 days per visit. Travelers who are from countries that are already eligible for the KSA eVisa (United States, United Kingdom, EU countries, for example) will usually receive a KSA multiple-entry visa. UAE residents who are not eligible for the Saudi eVisa without being UAE residents can receive either a multiple-entry or a single-entry visa.
The KSA eVisa allows entry for tourism and leisure, visiting friends and family, or performing Umrah. Although there are exceptions, such as not being eligible to perform Umrah during the Hajj season. You can also use the KSA Tourist eVisa if you are coming for medical or business purposes. The eVisa does not permit employment, studying in KSA, or performing Hajj.
What Documents Are Required for the KSA eVisa?
When applying for the Saudi eVisa, UAE residents should prepare and submit specific documents. Residents must submit the following documents:
Visa requirements are always subject to change, it’s essential to check the official KSA eVisa website or consult a visa service provider to ensure all document requirements are up to date.
How to Apply for a Saudi eVisa
The eVisa application process is simple and can be completed online. The following is a step-by-step guide for UAE residents applying for the KSA eVisa.
Fill Out the Saudi Visa Application Form
You can start the process by completing the visa application form with your accurate personal details, passport information, travel plans, and information regarding your UAE residency. It’s essential that everything matches your official documents.
Upload Required Documents
Next, you can upload digital copies of your key documents, including your passport, a recently taken personal photo, and proof of your UAE residency.
Pay the Visa Fee
After you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to proceed to the payment. A valid payment method, such as a credit or debit card, will be required to complete this step, as the process is done entirely online.
Wait for Processing
Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by KSA immigration authorities. Most eVisas are processed quickly, and you can expect a response within a couple of days.
Receive and download your eVisa
Once your application has been approved, you will receive your eVisa via email. It’s suggested to print a copy or have a digital version available upon arrival in KSA Arabia. Make sure to continue to comply with Saudi immigration authorities and follow Saudi laws and regulations once you are in the country.
Children under 18 years old cannot independently apply for the Saudi eVisa. A parent or legal guardian must apply on their behalf. It is required to include the child’s passport and residency documents. The child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when entering KSA.
Saudi eVisa Processing Time
The Saudi eVisa is processed quickly and efficiently. Most applications are approved within 24-72 hours of submission. Although processing times can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, the volume of applications, and whether the required documents are completed fully and accurately. Applicants from countries that are not traditionally eligible for the eVisa but are eligible based on UAE residency may experience a longer processing time.
In order to avoid delays, it’s important to make sure all information in the application is accurate, your documents meet the required specifications, and the visa fee is paid successfully. While most eVisas are processed and approved quickly, it is advised to apply well in advance in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Saudi Visa Extension
The Saudi Tourist eVisa cannot be extended. The maximum allowed stay is 90 days, and then you are required to exit the country. There is no option to extend the eVisa once the 90 days are up. If you wish to stay longer in KSA, you must either exit the country or apply for a different visa type. As most applicants will have a multiple-entry visa, it is flexible and simple to exit KSA and then re-enter, restarting another 90 days. If you don’t have a multiple-entry visa, you will be required to reapply for a new visa. If you need to stay in Saudi Arabia for a specific purpose, such as work or studying, you must apply for a Work Visa or a Study Visa.
Can UAE Residents Perform Umrah with the eVisa?
The Saudi Tourist eVisa allows for a range of travel activities, including tourism and performing Umrah. While there is a specific KSA Umrah Visa, it is more convenient to perform Umrah with the Saudi eVisa for GCC residents. However, it’s important to note that the eVisa cannot be used for performing Hajj, which requires a separate visa that must be applied for through an authorized travel agent and is only valid during the designated Hajj season. While the eVisa is valid for performing Umrah, you are not eligible during the Hajj season.
Saudi Arabia Entry Requirements and Rules for UAE Residents
In order to ensure smooth travel, UAE residents should be aware of entry requirements and rules. Here’s a breakdown of the key Saudi Visa requirements for UAE residents:
Traveling to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has become an incredibly popular travel destination over the years, thanks to its fascinating history, culture, and modern luxury. The country is home to iconic landmarks, such as the Al-Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Madain Saleh archaeological site. You can also visit the Red Sea, the desert landscapes of Rub’ al Khali, and experience the rapidly developing tourism industry full of high-end resorts and luxurious experiences. Also, don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes! Make sure to try Kabsa, Shawarma, and Jareesh.
During your visit, it is important to pay attention to travel tips specific to Saudi Arabia. This is a conservative country, so you should dress modestly in public. Remember that public displays of affection are not acceptable, and you should follow local customs. Public transportation options in Saudi Arabia are limited, so it’s best to use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to get around.
FAQs
UAE residents can apply for an electronic Saudi visit visa from the UAE through an online application process. If you’re planning to travel multiple times within a year, you can apply for a multiple-entry KSA visa for UAE residents.
The KSA Visa fees for UAE residents vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. It’s important to check the latest pricing on official platforms to ensure you have accurate information about the price before applying.
Yes, UAE residents can apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai, as it is in the UAE.
The Saudi Umrah Visa for UAE residents is typically a short-term visa that is valid for 30 days. While UAE residents are eligible, it is advised to apply for the electronic 1-year Saudi Visa, which is a more convenient option.
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