For many UK residents, the Gulf Country of Saudi Arabia has long been a location tinged with mystery and intrigue. However, two recent, significant events have firmly put the "Land of the Two Holy Mosques" on the radar of more adventurous travelers from the UK.
One is that the country was recently awarded the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which should result in thousands of football fans from England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales traveling there—assuming their respective nations make it through the qualifying stages.
The second is that it has officially launched a new tourist visa that makes it much easier to visit this beautiful country.
Regardless of whether you are going for the football or to enjoy incredible experiences such as swimming in the Red Sea, exploring the historical port city of Jeddah, or venturing deep into the spectacular desert of AlUla, you will need one of two visas.
In this guide, we will discuss both of them in more detail.
Saudi Visa Options
Any UK resident who wants to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has two primary options. They can either secure a Visa Waiver or a Tourist eVisa.
Which one they apply for will depend on the purpose of their visit and the length of time they want to stay. However, they will need to have their visa approved before they travel to the country or on their arrival at any of its main international airports.
Any visitor who overstays their welcome could find themselves being detained, receiving large fines, or deported. They might also be banned from ever returning to the Gulf country again.
What is the Saudi Arabia Visa Waiver?
An Electronic Visa Waiver allows UK residents to enter Saudi Arabia once for a period of up to 180 days for the following purposes. If you're looking for a Saudi Arabia visa for UK residents, this option is ideal for:
You will need to apply for this type of visa at least 48 hours prior to your flight and up to 90 days before it, and you will have to provide your flight details.
What is a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
The eVisa is valid for 365 days from the date the authorities grant it to you. While it only allows you to visit the country for a total of 90 days across the entire year-long period, it is valid for multiple entries.
This eVisa allows recipients to engage in tourist-related activities, including visits to friends and family, specific events, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj). It also excludes activities such as studying or working.
Again, you need to apply for this visa on arrival or, preferably, before you touch down at any of the country’s international airports.
Unlike the Visa Waiver, the eVisa covers you for health insurance during your visit. The Ministry of Tourism can provide you with more information about this.
What is the Hajj Visa?
There is a third visa option, referred to as the Hajj visa. It is mainly designed for UK Muslim residents who want to partake in the Hajj pilgrimage within Saudi Arabia.
Its validity runs only for the period of Hajj. So, all pilgrims must leave the country by the 10th day of Muharram.
How to Apply for a Saudi Visa?
Whichever visa you want to apply for, you can do it directly through our website here.
Entry Requirements to Saudi Arabia
To enter Saudi Arabia, you are obliged to meet certain requirements. They are as follows:
Valid Passport
Your passport must have at least six months to run after the date you arrive in Saudi Arabia if you come on a Visa Waiver and 365 days if you were granted an eVisa.
Make sure you renew your passport if you have less than this time remaining because you will not be allowed to enter the country if your travel document is not valid.
Vaccinations
Even if your visa has been granted, you must have certificates to prove you have had certain vaccinations if you want to visit Saudi Arabia.
They include the yellow fever vaccine if you are visiting from a country that is regarded as a transmission risk and the meningococcal quadrivalent vaccine if you are a seasonal worker or on an Umrah or Hajj pilgrimage.
Customs Rules
Saudi Arabia has very stringent rules about what type of goods you can bring in or out of the country. Here are some items that are prohibited:
Additionally, other items might be subject to examination, including books, electronic devices, and personal videos.
You may also need a special license for binoculars or powerful cameras, listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, and satellite phones. Contact the Saudi Embassy in the UK for clarification.
Where to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a country with many highlights for its tourists. If you are planning a visit to the Gulf nation for the first time, here are some excellent places to put on your itinerary:
All of these destinations should captivate UK travelers with their rich history, natural beauty, and compelling attractions.
