How to apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai
- Apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai
- Documents Required for a Saudi e-Visa
- How to Apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai
- FAQs
Over the past years, Saudi Arabia has taken extensive measures to attract tourists from across the world. The country’s rich history and diverse landscape make it an ideal destination. If you plan a trip soon, here’s what you need to know about obtaining a Saudi visa from Dubai.
Apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai
In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced a major revamp to make the country more welcoming to foreigners. Fast on its way to becoming a tourist hub, Saudi Arabia is a hot spot for GCC nationals and expats.
Let’s have a look at who and how you can apply for a Saudi visit visa from Dubai.
For UAE Passport Holders
You can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa as a UAE passport holder or a GCC national. You can enter the country using your National ID (Emirates ID for the UAE) or any other valid document. However, UAE citizens planning to go to Hajj from Dubai must apply for a visa.
For UAE Residents
UAE residents cannot use their permit in place of a visa. So, if you want to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, Umrah or Hajj, you must apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai.
If your country is eligible for a Saudi e-visa, you can visit the official website and start the process there. But, if your country does not qualify for an e-visa, visit the nearest Saudi Embassy to initiate the visa process. You can also get help from VISA SERVICES if an e-visa isn’t possible.
Importantly, Saudi Arabia also offers e-visa to GCC residents to boost tourism. It allows residents of Dubai or any other UAE emirate to seek an e-visa instead of applying for a visa through VFS or the consulate. Therefore, getting a Saudi tourist visa from Dubai takes minimal time.
The Saudi e-visa is valid for 1 year, allowing you to stay in the country for up to 90 days (3 months).
Here’s the list of the countries eligible for a Saudi e-visa:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Australia
- Azerbaijan
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tajikistan
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Uzbekistan
Documents Required for a Saudi E-Visa
To obtain your KSA visa from Dubai, you have to submit the following documents:
- Original passport with a minimum validity of six months – if you’re wondering how to check my visa status in the UAE, log on to ICA Smart Services.
- A recent passport photo with a white background
- A completed Saudi Visa application form
- Proof of medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation (Hotel booking)
- A copy of flight tickets
While applying, keep in consideration that your passport photo must meet certain criteria levied by the Saudi government. The picture should be 200 x 200 in width and height, while the image size must be 5 to 100 Kb. Your face should be visible, including your forehead, ears and chin.
How to Apply for a Saudi Visit Visa from the UAE
Now that you have all the documents ready, you can apply for the Saudi visit visa online. Follow the steps below for a successful online Saudi visa application:
- Visit the Saudi e-Visa Website.
- Click on ‘Apply Now’.
- If you have an existing account, click on the ‘Sign in’ button; proceed by typing in your email address, password and the captcha, and then log in.
- If you are creating your account for the first time, select your passport type, country or nationality, enter the captcha and select ‘Next’
- Once the form opens, insert the photo – make sure you meet the photo requirements.
- Input your details, such as type, number, expiry date, purpose of visit and address in KSA. If you’re staying at a hotel, click ‘Commercial Accommodation’ and enter the hotel address and contact number.
- Submit your medical insurance that covers the stay of your trip. Please ensure that you fill in the relevant information correctly.
- Read the terms and conditions and proceed to ‘agree/next’.
- Before paying via your credit or debit card, ensure all the details are correct, otherwise you risk getting your visa rejected.
Once the application is sent, the government will process the visa within 3 to 4 business days. In case your application is successful, you’ll receive your Saudi e-visa via email.
FAQs About How to Apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai
Can UAE citizens apply for a Saudi Arabian tourist visa?
UAE citizens or nationals do not need to apply for a Saudi Arabian tourist visa as they are offered visa-free entry. UAE passport holders only have to apply for a Hajj visa.
Can UAE citizens visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah without a visa?
Yes, UAE citizens can visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah without obtaining a visa.
Does your religion matter while applying for a tourist KSA visa from Dubai?
Your religion does not influence the acceptance or rejection of your KSA tourist visa.
What is the cost of a Saudi e-Visa?
The cost for the tourist e-Visa is SAR 535 (approximately AED 524). The visa cost includes a fee for full health insurance during your stay in the Kingdom. On the other hand, the on-arrival visa costs SAR 480 (approximately AED 470).
Please note that the visa cost is non-refundable and can change anytime. We would suggest that you confirm the visa fee from the official website before applying for it.
Where is the Saudi Embassy located in the UAE?
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s embassy is in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital. It is in Al Karama Street, Embassies District.
That concludes the process of applying for a Saudi Arabia visa from Dubai. Dubai’s central location allows residents access to many leading travel and business destinations.
Those applying for a Canada visa from Dubai can do so through a fairly simple process with great chances of approval.
If you are interested in travelling to one of the European countries, here is the process of Schengen visa application from Dubai.
