As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious transformation under Vision 2030, one of the most significant changes has been the introduction of saudi tourist visa issuance automation for international travelers. This revolutionary automation of the visa process is ushering in a new era of seamless, hassle-free entry into the country – and is poised to make Saudi Arabia a prime destination for millions of global visitors.
Prior to 2019, obtaining a visa to visit Saudi Arabia was a notoriously complex and time-consuming ordeal. Prospective travelers were required to:
- Physically visit a Saudi embassy or consulate
- Submit extensive paperwork
- Wait weeks or even months to receive approval
This daunting process undoubtedly discouraged many would-be visitors from even attempting to plan a trip.
However, the launch of the eVisa system has completely transformed the landscape. Now, eligible foreign nationals from over 50 countries can conveniently apply for their Saudi tourist visa through the Saudi Tourist Visa Issuance Automation, with the majority receiving their approved documents within just 24 hours. This digitized, automated process has unlocked a new level of accessibility and convenience that is already luring droves of tourists to discover the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural wonders, and rapidly modernizing infrastructure.
“The implementation of the Saudi eVisa has been a game-changer for international tourism to the country,” explains Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism. “By streamlining the visa application experience and slashing processing times, we have removed significant barriers that previously prevented many travelers from visiting. This is a critical part of our broader strategy to position Saudi Arabia as a leading global destination.”
Who Can Apply for the Saudi Tourist eVisa?
Nationals from the following countries are eligible for the saudi tourist visa issuance automation:
North America
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Canada
- Grenada
- Panama
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- United States
Europe
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Asia
- Azerbaijan
- Brunei
- China (including Hong Kong and Macau)
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Tajikistan
- Thailand
- Turkey
- Uzbekistan
Africa
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- South Africa
Oceania
- Australia
- New Zealand
If you hold a passport from one of these eligible countries, you can apply for a Saudi tourist eVisa online through a simple, streamlined process.
How the Saudi Tourist Visa Issuance Automation System Works
The genius of the Saudi eVisa system lies in its sheer simplicity and efficiency. Rather than having to navigate a maze of paperwork, embassy visits, and uncertain wait times, the entire process can now be completed in a matter of minutes from the comfort of one’s own home or office.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete the Online Application: Prospective visitors fill out a straightforward digital form on the official Saudi eVisa portal.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Travelers submit a passport photo and a copy of their passport bio page.
- Secure Digital Payment: The visa fee of $120 USD can be paid securely online.
- Receive Instant Approval: Most applications are approved within 24 hours, with the eVisa delivered digitally.
- Breeze Through Border Control: eVisa holders can present their approved document electronically or printed out to expedite entry.
“The transformation has been remarkable,” says Khalid Al-Falih, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment. “Where the visa process used to be a major headache for travelers, it is now streamlined, seamless, and stress-free. This ease of access is a major competitive advantage that is helping us attract millions of new visitors to explore our nation.”
Attracting a New Wave of Tourists
The rollout of the Saudi eVisa has coincided with the Kingdom’s broader push to develop its tourism industry as a key economic driver. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has:
- Earmarked billions for tourism infrastructure investments
- Rapidly expanded its roster of world-class hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Opened up eligibility for the eVisa to over 50 countries worldwide
The results have been nothing short of remarkable. In 2024, the UN World Tourism Organization reported that Saudi Arabia was the fastest-growing G20 country in terms of international arrivals, with a 73% increase recorded during the first seven months of the year alone. And with the eVisa continuing to drive visitor growth, the country is on track to shatter all previous tourism records in the years ahead.
“The introduction of the saudi tourist visa issuance automation has been a complete game-changer,” says Amr AlMadani, CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla. “It has opened up Saudi Arabia to a whole new world of travelers who may have previously written off the country as too difficult or inaccessible to visit. Now, with a seamless online application process and near-instant approval, we’re seeing millions of people eager to discover the unique experiences we have to offer.”
Unlocking a Wealth of Cultural Riches
So what exactly is drawing these waves of new visitors to Saudi Arabia? Beyond the convenience of the Saudi tourist visa issuance automation, the country is quickly establishing itself as a premier tourism destination thanks to its unparalleled cultural richness and natural beauty.
Some of the top attractions include:
- The majestic ruins of Mada’in Saleh, a 2,000-year-old Nabataean city
- The stunning rock formations of Jabal Akhdar
- The preserved old town of Jeddah
- The breathtaking Farasan Islands in the Red Sea
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s rapidly modernizing cities are emerging as vibrant hubs of arts, culture, and entertainment. Riyadh, the capital, has transformed into a gleaming metropolis packed with world-class museums, cutting-edge performing arts venues, and an exploding culinary scene. Jeddah, the country’s commercial heart, boasts a picturesque corniche, lively souks, and a trendy new waterfront district filled with galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
“Saudi Arabia is not just about the past – it’s also about the future,” says Princess Haifa Al Saud, Assistant Minister of Tourism. “We are investing heavily to create immersive, elevated experiences that will astonish and delight both first-time and repeat visitors. Our goal is to not only preserve our rich heritage, but to seamlessly blend it with modern innovation and amenities.”
A New Era of Seamless Connectivity
The eVisa program is just one piece of a much larger digital transformation underway across Saudi Arabia. The country has been rapidly embracing advanced technologies to enhance the overall travel experience, from airport biometrics and mobile payment systems to augmented reality city guides and cloud-based hotel management.
Some of the key advancements include:
- The state-of-the-art Haramain high-speed rail network
- The new King Salman International Airport in Riyadh
- Plans for a national digital tourism platform powered by AI and big data
“Improved accessibility and connectivity are absolutely essential to realizing our tourism ambitions,” says AlMadani. “Whether it’s high-speed rail, world-class airports, or a seamless digital ecosystem, we are investing heavily to ensure that traveling to and within Saudi Arabia is as effortless and enjoyable as possible.”
Charting the Future of Saudi Tourism
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to rapidly evolve, the future of its tourism industry looks brighter than ever. With the Saudi tourist visa issuance automation program already proving to be a runaway success, experts predict that the country will continue to enhance and expand its digital visa offerings in the years ahead.
“We are constantly evaluating ways to make the visa application process even more seamless and user-friendly,” says Al-Khateeb. “This could include integrating new technologies like facial recognition, introducing additional visa categories, or expanding eligibility to even more nationalities. Our goal is to remove any and all barriers that might prevent people from visiting Saudi Arabia.”
Conclusion
Beyond the Saudi tourist visa issuance automation, Saudi Arabia is also set to debut a slew of other cutting-edge tourism initiatives that will cement its status as a global leader. This includes the rollout of a national digital tourism platform, as well as pioneering attractions like the world’s largest outdoor theme park and the first commercial space center in the Middle East.
“Saudi Arabia is on the cusp of a tourism revolution,” concludes Hamidaddin. “Through a combination of unparalleled cultural riches, world-class infrastructure, and relentless innovation, we are transforming ourselves into a destination that will captivate and inspire travelers from every corner of the globe. The eVisa is just the beginning – the best is yet to come.”
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get a Saudi eVisa?
The Saudi eVisa system is known for its lightning-fast processing times. In most cases, applicants receive their approved visa within just 24 hours of submitting their online application. This is a dramatic improvement over the lengthy wait times associated with the previous paper-based visa process.
2. What is the cost of a Saudi eVisa?
The current fee for a Saudi tourist eVisa is $120 USD. This covers the government charges as well as any additional service fees. Travelers can conveniently pay the visa cost securely online during the application process using a credit/debit card, digital wallet, or other approved payment method.
3. Can I extend my Saudi eVisa?
Unlike some other visa types, the standard Saudi tourist eVisa generally cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in the country for a longer period, you will need to exit Saudi Arabia and then reapply for a new eVisa. However, the government does offer alternative visa options, such as long-term multiple-entry visas, that may be better suited for extended visits.
4. Is a visit visa the same as a tourist visa in Saudi Arabia?
No, there is a distinction between a visitor visa and a tourist visa in Saudi Arabia. A tourist visa is specifically intended for travel and leisure purposes, while a visit visa can cover a wider range of temporary activities, including personal visits, business trips, family visits, and more. Travelers should carefully review the different visa types to ensure they apply for the one that aligns with the purpose of their trip.
5. How do I check the status of my Saudi eVisa application?
Once you have submitted your Saudi eVisa application, you can track its status through the official online portal. Simply log in to your account and you will be able to see where your application is in the review process. You will also receive an email notification as soon as your visa has been approved and issued.
