Saudi Arabia tourist visa for non-Muslims

Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to non-Muslim tourists, permitting engagement in tourism-related activities such as events, family and relative visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj). This is facilitated by a one-year, multiple-entry tourist visa, allowing a 90-day stay.¹

People from these countries are eligible to apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist EVisa.¹

The application process for a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia is relatively simple. It can be done online here at Visas for Future by completing our online application form. The standard processing time for a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia is usually three business days. Once your visa is approved, Visas for Future will send your E-Visa to you via email, and you will receive it within 24 hours. After receiving your visa, you can easily download and print it out.

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What We’re Offering

We offer Saudi Arabia tourist e-visa processing services for non-muslims. Our processing service will email you your e-visa and mandatory health insurance within three days.

• 90 days duration.¹
• Multiple entry.¹
• The $214.82 fee includes the government fee and the mandatory health insurance.

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Can a non-Muslim get a Saudi Arabian tourist visa?

Yes, Saudi Arabia has implemented a tourist visa program that is open to citizens of various countries, including non-Muslims. The introduction of tourist visas is part of Saudi Arabia’s initiative to boost tourism and diversify its economy.²

Visa requirements for visiting Saudi Arabia as a non-Muslim tourist

If you’re a non-Muslim tourist planning to visit Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to obtain a tourist visa in advance. The visa application process is straightforward, and you can apply online through the Visas for Future website.

Restrictions for Non-Muslim travelers

• Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. This includes the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
• Other religious sites may also have restrictions for non-Muslims, although specific information might not be readily available. It’s best to research before visiting any religious site outside of Mecca and Medina.
• Tourist visas are only granted to those who book through a registered tour operator and have a minimum of four (4) guests.
• The visa must be attested by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage.
• Women under 25 years old must have a “companion” to visit Saudi Arabia.
• Female travelers are required to cover their heads while in the country due to conservative laws.
• Generally, proselytizing and public displays of non-Islamic religious practices are not allowed.

Here are the essential documents for a Saudi Arabia visa application for non-Muslims:²

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Biodata page of your passport.
2. USA/UK/Schengen Visa ID/Document
   • Recent passport-size color photograph, adhering to specific dimensions of 2×2 inches, with a plain white background, and meeting quality standards.
   • The photo is taken against a clean background.
3. Accommodation Details: Information on your stay, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter.
4. Flight Itinerary: Document outlining travel plans, including flight details.
5. Health Insurance: Mandatory, to be purchased during the visa application, covering potential medical expenses.
6. Financial Proof: Evidence of financial capability, such as bank statements or employment proof, to cover expenses.

How to Get a Tourist Visa for Saudi Arabia as a Non-Muslim

You can apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-visa card online here at Visas for Future. Here is the step-by-step guide:

1. Visit Visas For Future Website: Go to the Visas for Future website and click on the “Get Saudi Arabia Tourist EVisa Now” button to start the application process.
2. Provide Personal Information: Enter your details, including your full name, date of birth, contact number, and email address.
3. Make Payment: Choose your preferred payment method, such as a credit card or debit card, and proceed to pay the $214.82 fee, which includes the government fee and mandatory health insurance.
4. Complete the Intake Form: Carefully answer the questions on the intake form, providing accurate and detailed information. This includes your passport number, travel dates, travel plans, accommodation preferences, and intended arrival and departure cities.
5. Upload necessary documents
   • Upload your recent photo taken against a clean background
   • Upload your USA/UK/Schengen Visa ID/Document
   • Upload the Biodata page of your Passport
6. Review and Submit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly review your personal information, intake form answers, and uploaded documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Once satisfied, click the “Submit” button to finalize your application.

Processing time and cost

The Saudi Arabia e-visa from Visas for Future takes three processing days and costs $214.82, covering the government fee and health insurance.

Things to Know Before Applying for a Tourist Visa for Saudi Arabia for Non-Muslims

Before applying for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia as a non-Muslim, it’s crucial to be aware of certain key considerations and restrictions. Here are important things to know:³

1. Entry Restrictions to Holy Cities: Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the holy cities of Mecca and Medina due to their significant religious importance in Islam.
2. Public Practices and Religious Items: Non-Muslims are prohibited from engaging in public prayer or openly carrying religious texts. This aligns with the Islamic nature of the country and its dedication to maintaining the sanctity of religious practices.
3. Clothing Standards: Non-Muslims must adhere to Saudi clothing standards, refraining from wearing attire that may be considered immodest or inappropriate according to local customs and Islamic values.
4. Alcohol and Photography Restrictions: Alcohol consumption is generally prohibited for everyone, and photographing certain government buildings and military installations is not allowed.
5. Respect for Local Customs: Respect for local customs and cultural norms is essential. Be aware of and adhere to Saudi Arabian traditions and regulations to ensure a smooth and respectful visit.
6. Health Insurance Requirement: Health insurance is often a mandatory requirement for obtaining a tourist visa. Ensure you have adequate coverage for potential medical expenses during your stay.
7. Legal and Cultural Awareness: Stay informed about local laws and cultural practices to avoid unintentional violations. Awareness of the legal and cultural landscape will contribute to a positive and respectful experience in Saudi Arabia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. The Official Website for Tourist Visa to Saudi Arabia. (2024). Saudi EVisa, Visitsaudi.com, Retrieved January 15, 2024, <https://visa.visitsaudi.com/> [↩] [↩] [↩] [↩]
2. The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (2024). Tourist Visa, Saudiembassy.net, Retrieved January 15, 2024, <https://www.saudiembassy.net/tourist-visa> [↩] [↩]
3. The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (2024). Tourist Visa, Saudiembassy.net, Retrieved January 15, 2024,<https://www.saudiembassy.net/tourist-visa#:~:text=1%20Duly%20filled%20application%20form%202%20Passport%20valid,travel%20itinerary%208%20Proof%20of%20employment%20More%20items> [↩]
4. Gov.UK. (15 February 2013). Office D, Pilgrimage Saudi Arabia Travel Advice, GOV.UK, Retrieved January 15, 2024, <https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/saudi-arabia/pilgrimage> [↩] [↩]

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Cite this article

MLA Style

Santos, Rosalie. "Saudi Arabia tourist visa for non-Muslims." Visas For Future, https://www.visasforfuture.com/tourist-visa-saudi-arabia-non-muslim/. Accessed on 21 August 2023.

Chicago Style

Santos, Rosalie. "Saudi Arabia tourist visa for non-Muslims." Visas For Future. August 21, 2023. https://www.visasforfuture.com/tourist-visa-saudi-arabia-non-muslim/.