Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia: Which Passports Qualify
Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia now means navigating a new set of entry rules, thanks to the country’s recent opening to international tourism. One of the most appealing developments is the visa on arrival (VOA) option for many nationalities. But which passports qualify, how does the process work, and what does it mean for your travel plans? This guide will help you understand the current landscape so you can make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls—especially as much of the advice online is now out of date.
Understanding the Saudi Visa on Arrival: Who Qualifies?
The Saudi visa on arrival program is designed to make entry easier for tourists from selected countries. As of the latest updates, passport holders from the United States, much of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, and several other countries are eligible. However, the list of qualifying passports can change, and eligibility may depend on your passport’s validity and your travel history. Always check the official Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or your local Saudi embassy before booking flights, as eligibility can be updated without notice.
For travelers with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa who are not on the main list, there is sometimes a provision to receive a visa on arrival if certain conditions are met—such as having used that visa at least once to enter the issuing country. This is a recent change and not always reflected in older travel guides.
For a deeper dive into the country's key destinations and how visa policies shape your travel, explore the Saudi Arabia destination guide.
How the Visa on Arrival Works: Airports, Costs, and Validity
Saudi Arabia’s visa on arrival is issued at most major international airports, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Medina. The process is typically quick, but can vary with airport traffic and the time of day. Payment is made by credit or debit card—cash is rarely accepted. The cost of a visa on arrival is subject to change; check the official site for current fees, which can vary depending on your nationality and the exchange rate.
The tourist visa is usually valid for one year with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit. However, the maximum stay and number of entries can be updated, so verify details before travel. Note that the visa covers tourism, family visits, and events, but not work or study.
If your trip includes Riyadh, consider visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia for an introduction to the country’s history and culture.
Where You Can Go: Regional Restrictions and Religious Sites
While the tourist visa on arrival opens up most of Saudi Arabia, there are important exceptions. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the central areas of Makkah or the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. However, non-Muslims can visit other parts of Madinah, including museums, markets, and the outskirts. This distinction is not always clear in older guides, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Popular tourist destinations such as AlUla, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abha, and the Eastern Province are fully accessible with a visa on arrival. If your journey includes multiple cities, remember that distances are vast—Saudi Arabia is not a compact destination. For example, the drive from Jeddah to AlUla takes around 8-9 hours, and flying is often the most efficient way to cover long distances.
For a detailed look at a classic multi-city trip, see this itinerary: Riyadh Alula Jeddah.
How to Plan Your Entry: Airports, Land Borders, and Timing
Most travelers arrive via the international airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, where visa on arrival facilities are well established. Some land borders, such as those with the UAE, Bahrain, and Jordan, also issue visas on arrival, but services may be more limited and queues longer. If you plan to enter by road, check in advance that your crossing offers visa on arrival and is open to tourists.
Entry at smaller airports or remote border posts can be unpredictable, especially during peak travel periods or religious holidays. Arriving in the early morning or late evening may mean shorter lines, but always allow extra time in case of delays. If you are planning a road trip from Jeddah to AlUla, read about the practicalities and route options in Driving from Jeddah to Alula.
Dress Codes and Conduct: What’s Really Expected?
Saudi Arabia’s dress codes have relaxed in recent years, but expectations remain, especially in smaller cities and religiously significant areas. For men, long trousers and shirts with sleeves are standard. For women, an abaya (loose robe) is no longer mandatory for foreign tourists, but modest dress—covering shoulders and knees—is expected. Headscarves are not required for non-Muslim women, except in mosques or religious sites open to non-Muslims.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited and not available in hotels, restaurants, or shops—there are no exceptions or workarounds. Public conduct should be respectful, especially during prayer times, when many businesses close for 20-30 minutes. Plan your meals and sightseeing with these pauses in mind.
If you’re driving between cities, such as from Jeddah to Taif, local customs and expectations may shift—see Driving from Jeddah to Taif for practical advice on navigating these differences.
Getting Around: Domestic Travel and Transport Options
Once you have your visa, planning travel within Saudi Arabia means choosing between flying, driving, and sometimes taking the train. Domestic flights connect major cities and are often the fastest way to cover the country’s vast distances. Car rental is straightforward for most tourists with an international driving permit, but be prepared for long drives and varying road conditions. Some routes, like Riyadh to Al Ahsa, are well-served by highways, but remote areas may have limited services.
For road trip inspiration, see this detailed guide: Driving from Riyadh to Al Ahsa. If you’d rather focus on the capital, the Riyadh city guide covers attractions, neighborhoods, and practical tips.
Sample Itineraries: Making the Most of Your Visa
With a visa on arrival, you can explore Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions, from the Red Sea coast to the mountain towns and the Empty Quarter. Classic itineraries include Jeddah, Madinah (areas open to non-Muslims), AlUla, and Riyadh. Each region offers a distinct experience—Jeddah’s historic old town, AlUla’s rock formations and UNESCO sites, Riyadh’s modern skyline, and the green highlands of Abha.
To see how these destinations fit together, review this journey: Jeddah Madinah Alula Riyadh. For those interested in longer drives, the route from Abha to Jeddah offers a look at the changing landscapes of the southwest—see Driving from Abha to Jeddah for tips.
Booking Accommodation and Activities: What Changes with VOA?
Having a visa on arrival doesn’t change how you book hotels or tours, but it does mean you can be more flexible with your plans. Most major hotel chains and local properties can be booked online using international booking platforms. For unique experiences like stargazing in AlUla or exploring the old city of Diriyah near Riyadh, booking ahead is recommended during peak seasons (October to March).
Some activities, such as visiting Diriyah, may require advance tickets or registration, especially during festivals and events. For a practical guide to reaching Diriyah from Riyadh, see Driving from Riyadh to Diriyah.
Prayer Times, Opening Hours, and Public Holidays: Planning Around Local Life
Saudi Arabia’s public life is shaped by the five daily prayers, which affect opening hours for shops, restaurants, and attractions. Most businesses close for 20–30 minutes at prayer times, especially in smaller cities and traditional neighborhoods. Friday, the Islamic holy day, can see many places closed until after the midday prayer. During Ramadan, hours shift dramatically, with many attractions opening in the evening.
Major public holidays—such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—can affect travel plans, with crowded airports, busy roads, and many businesses closed or operating on reduced hours. Always check opening times for key sites before you go. If you’re planning a drive from Jeddah to Madinah, these factors can affect your schedule—see Driving from Jeddah to Madinah for more tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which nationalities can get a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia?
Passport holders from the United States, Canada, most European Union countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, and several other countries are eligible for a visa on arrival. This list can change, so always check the official Saudi eVisa portal or your nearest Saudi embassy for the most up-to-date information.
Can I travel anywhere in Saudi Arabia with a tourist visa on arrival?
Most of the country is open to tourists, but non-Muslims cannot enter the central areas of Makkah or the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. Other parts of Madinah and all other regions, including AlUla, Jeddah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, are accessible with a tourist visa.
How much does the visa on arrival cost, and how do I pay?
The fee for a Saudi visa on arrival varies by nationality and exchange rates. Payment is typically made by credit or debit card at the airport or border entry point. For current fees, consult the official Saudi government website or your local embassy.
Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with a visa on arrival?
Yes, tourists can rent and drive cars in Saudi Arabia with a valid international driving permit and a tourist visa. Road conditions are good on major highways, but distances are long and traffic rules are strictly enforced. For detailed route advice, see guides like Driving from Jeddah to Alula.
How do prayer times affect my travel plans?
Prayer times occur five times daily and can affect the opening hours of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Most places close for 20–30 minutes at each prayer, so plan your meals, sightseeing, and transport accordingly—especially in smaller towns and during Ramadan.
Is alcohol available to tourists in Saudi Arabia?
No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia for everyone, including tourists. There are no legal exceptions or workarounds, and penalties for possession or consumption are severe.
Saudi Arabia is changing fast, and the visa on arrival makes it easier than ever to explore its unique landscapes, history, and culture. Check the latest official rules, plan your route, and get ready to experience a side of the Arabian Peninsula that few have seen. Your journey starts with the right visa choice—so make sure you’re prepared, and enjoy the adventure ahead!