Introduction
Saudi Arabia is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, such as the Makkah Clock Royal Tower and the Burj Khalifa. If you’re planning to visit Saudi Arabia as a tourist, you will need to obtain a visa. The process can be daunting, but this article will guide you through the requirements and process for obtaining a tourist visa through MOFA.
What is MOFA?
MOFA stands for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is the government agency in charge of handling foreign policy matters for Saudi Arabia. One of its responsibilities is to issue visas to foreign visitors who wish to enter the Kingdom for various purposes, including tourism.
Visa Requirements
Before you can obtain a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia, you must meet certain requirements. Here are the requirements you must fulfill:
- You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of your intended arrival.
- You must be a citizen of a country that is eligible for a tourist visa.
- You must have a return ticket and a confirmed hotel reservation.
- You must have a valid email address and mobile number.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
Eligible Countries
Not all countries are eligible for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia. Here is a list of countries that are eligible:
- Canada
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Singapore
- Brunei
Visa Process
The process for obtaining a tourist visa through MOFA is relatively simple. Here are the steps you must follow:
- Visit the official MOFA website.
- Create an account by providing your email address and mobile number.
- Fill out the visa application form.
- Upload all the required documents, including a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and your hotel reservation confirmation.
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the visa to be processed, which usually takes 3-5 business days.
- Once the visa is processed, you will receive an email with the visa approval letter. Print out the letter and carry it with you when you travel to Saudi Arabia.
Visa Validity and Duration
When you obtain a tourist visa through MOFA, it will be valid for 90 days from the date of issue. However, you can only stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 30 days. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for an extension at the nearest MOFA office.
Conclusion
Obtaining a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia through MOFA is a simple and straightforward process. Make sure you fulfill all the requirements and follow the steps carefully to ensure a smooth application process. Once you have your visa, you can explore the beauty and culture of Saudi Arabia to your heart’s content.
