For years, visiting Saudi Arabia has been quite a challenge for many tourists who wanted to explore the country’s beauty and cultural heritage. Obtaining a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia was a complicated and lengthy process that discouraged many travelers.
But things have changed for the better in recent years. Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to tourists from all over the world with an easy and straightforward process. Now, tourists can apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) at any Saudi Arabia airport.
In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival.
What is a Tourist Visa Saudi Arabia On Arrival?
A tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival is a type of visa that allows foreign visitors to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. The visa can be obtained at any Saudi Arabia airport upon arrival without the need for prior application or approval.
The VOA is granted to tourists who are traveling to Saudi Arabia for leisure, sightseeing, and cultural exploration. It’s valid for up to 90 days from the date of entry, and you can extend it for another 90 days if needed.
It’s worth noting that not all nationalities are eligible for a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival. We’ll explain more about this in the next section.
Who is Eligible for a Tourist Visa Saudi Arabia On Arrival?
The Saudi Arabia government has a list of around 49 countries whose citizens are eligible for a tourist visa on arrival. The list includes most European countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and the United States.
If you are from one of the eligible countries, you can obtain a VOA by presenting your passport, paying the visa fee, and complying with the immigration requirements.
However, if you are not from one of the eligible countries, you will need to apply for a tourist visa through the Saudi Arabia embassy in your home country.
What are the Requirements for a Tourist Visa Saudi Arabia On Arrival?
Getting a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival is quite easy, but you still need to fulfill some immigration requirements. Here’s what you need to do:
- Have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Have a return ticket or a ticket to a third country.
- Have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay.
- Pay the visa fee at the airport.
- Not have a history of criminal activity or being blacklisted by the Saudi Arabia government.
How to Apply for a Tourist Visa Saudi Arabia On Arrival?
Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you can apply for a tourist visa at any immigration checkpoint in the airport. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Fill out the visa application form provided at the airport.
- Submit your passport, return ticket or ticket to a third country, and proof of financial stability.
- Pay the visa fee, which costs SAR 440 (around USD 117).
- Wait for the immigration officer to process your application and stamp your passport. This usually takes around 30 minutes.
What Can You Do With a Tourist Visa Saudi Arabia On Arrival?
With a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival, you can explore the country’s rich history and culture. Saudi Arabia has a lot of tourist attractions, including historical sites, museums, beaches, and shopping malls.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Saudi Arabia:
- Al-Ula: A UNESCO World Heritage site that features stunning rock formations and ancient ruins.
- Mada’in Saleh: Another UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Nabatean civilization.
- The Red Sea: A picturesque beach destination that offers swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
- Riyadh: The capital city of Saudi Arabia is a bustling metropolis that has a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
- Jeddah: A coastal city that is famous for its historic architecture, souks, and shopping malls.
Conclusion
Obtaining a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival is now easier than ever before. If you are from one of the eligible countries, you can apply for a visa at any Saudi Arabia airport upon arrival.
Just make sure you fulfill the immigration requirements and have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay. With a tourist visa Saudi Arabia on arrival, you can explore the country’s treasures and create unforgettable travel memories.
