Saudi Arabia Tourism Visa 2024-2025: Complete Guide for International Visitors
Published: 2024-09-01 · Last updated: February 2026
Saudi Arabia has transformed its tourism sector since launching the tourist eVisa in 2019. Now available to over 60 nationalities -- including India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Nigeria, and most Western countries -- the Saudi tourist eVisa is a significant opening for a country that was largely closed to leisure tourism until recently. This guide covers everything for 2024-2025 visitors.
Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa: Key Facts (2024-2025)
| Validity | 1 year from issue date, multiple entry |
| Stay Per Visit | Up to 90 days per visit (90 days cumulative per year) |
| Fee | SAR 535 (~USD 143) -- includes mandatory travel insurance |
| Processing | Often instant to a few hours; up to 24 hours |
| Apply | visa.visitsaudi.com |
| Entry Points | All major Saudi airports and land/sea borders |
Who Can Apply for Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa?
The Saudi tourist eVisa is available to nationals of 60+ countries including: India, Pakistan, Philippines, Nigeria, USA, UK, EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, and many others. Check the current eligibility list at visa.visitsaudi.com as it is periodically expanded.
What the Tourist eVisa Allows
- Tourism: visiting Riyadh, Jeddah, NEOM, AlUla, Diriyah, Red Sea resorts
- Visiting family and friends
- Attending public entertainment events (concerts, festivals, sporting events)
- Short business meetings
NOT allowed on tourist eVisa: Umrah (religious pilgrimage to Mecca/Medina) -- requires a separate Umrah visa. Employment or paid work. Any commercial religious activity.
Entry Rules for Women
Saudi Arabia removed the requirement for women to have a male guardian (mahram) for travel from 2019. Women can now travel to Saudi Arabia independently on the tourist eVisa. Women over 21 traveling alone or in groups of women are admitted without issue. The dress code in Saudi Arabia requires modest clothing in public -- covering shoulders and knees. Abayas (full-length robes) are no longer mandatory for non-Muslim tourists, though modest dress is expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the SAR 535 Saudi tourist eVisa fee?
The SAR 535 fee includes the tourist eVisa plus mandatory travel insurance coverage for the duration of the visa validity. This makes the upfront cost slightly higher than comparable destinations, but eliminates the need to purchase separate travel insurance for Saudi Arabia specifically. The insurance covers emergency medical treatment during your Saudi visit.
Can I visit Mecca and Medina on the Saudi tourist eVisa?
Non-Muslim tourists cannot enter the holy cities of Mecca and Medina regardless of visa type -- this is a permanent policy of the Saudi government. Muslim tourists can visit Mecca and Medina on the tourist eVisa for general visits to the cities but cannot perform Umrah on the tourist eVisa -- a separate Umrah visa is required for the pilgrimage.
Is it safe to visit Saudi Arabia as a tourist?
Saudi Arabia is generally considered safe for tourists in 2024-2025. The country has made significant investments in tourism infrastructure. Petty crime rates are low. The main considerations for Western tourists are the conservative dress code, alcohol prohibition, and being aware of prayer times when some businesses briefly close. Check your government''s current travel advisory before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Saudi Arabia tourist visa?
SAR 535 (~USD 143) including mandatory travel insurance. Valid 1 year, multiple entry, up to 90 days per visit. Apply at visa.visitsaudi.com.
Can Indians visit Saudi Arabia as tourists?
Yes. Indian nationals can apply for the Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa online at visa.visitsaudi.com. SAR 535, often approved instantly to 24 hours.
Can you do Umrah on the Saudi tourist visa?
No. Umrah requires a separate Umrah visa through authorized Umrah operators. The tourist eVisa does not permit pilgrimage. Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca or Medina.
Do women need a guardian to visit Saudi Arabia?
No. Saudi Arabia removed the male guardian (mahram) requirement for travel in 2019. Women can travel independently on the tourist eVisa.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · About · Report inaccuracy