Are you a UK resident planning to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days? Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, family visits, or religious purposes like Umrah, this detailed guide explains how to obtain a Saudi visa for UK residents. With Saudi Arabia’s introduction of the eVisa program, travel from the United Kingdom has become easier, faster, and more accessible than ever.
Do UK Residents Need a Visa to Visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes. All British passport holders (UK citizens) and UK residents holding eligible foreign passports require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, the Kingdom has streamlined its visa process for UK citizens, offering a multiple-entry eVisa valid for one year, allowing stays of up to SAUDI VISA FOR UK RESIDENTS FOR 90 DAYS per visit.
Note: UK residents who are non-British citizens may not be eligible for the eVisa and should verify eligibility based on their nationality.
Saudi eVisa for UK Citizens – Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Tourist eVisa (Multiple Entry) |
| Validity | 1 Year from date of issue |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 90 days per visit |
| Entries Allowed | Multiple |
| Eligible Purpose | Tourism, leisure, events, Umrah (non-Hajj) |
| Processing Time | 1 – 3 working days |
| Application Mode | 100% Online |
Eligibility for Saudi eVisa – UK Residents
You are eligible for the Saudi eVisa if you:
Hold a valid UK passport, or
Are a resident in the UK with a passport from an eligible eVisa country
Have a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry
Can provide payment by credit/debit card
Have an email address to receive the eVisa
Agree to the mandatory health insurance bundled with the visa
Visa Types for UK Residents Planning to Stay for 90 Days
1. Tourist eVisa
Most suitable for UK travelers
Allows stays up to 90 days per trip
Covers leisure travel, Umrah (for Muslims), events, and visiting friends
2. Business Visa
Needed if visiting for corporate purposes, trade fairs, conferences
Requires invitation letter from a registered Saudi company
May be single or multiple entry with varied stay durations
3. Family Visit Visa
For visiting family members in Saudi Arabia
Must be sponsored by a Saudi resident or citizen (family relationship proof required)
Requires a visa application through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal
How to Apply for Saudi Arabia eVisa from the UK
✅ Step 1: Visit the Official Saudi eVisa Portal
Go to https://visa.visitsaudi.com
✅ Step 2: Register an Account
Create a profile with your name, email, and travel details.
✅ Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Provide passport and personal details
Select visa type (tourism)
✅ Step 4: Upload Documents
Scanned copy of your passport’s data page
Passport-size photo (as per ICAO standards)
✅ Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa and mandatory insurance fee using a debit/credit card.
✅ Step 6: Receive the Visa
Your eVisa will be emailed within 1–3 working days. Print a copy and carry it when you travel.
Saudi Visa Fees for UK Residents
| Visa Type | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa | SAR 535 (≈ £115 GBP) |
| Business Visa | Varies depending on type |
| Family Visit Visa | SAR 300 – 500+ |
Fee includes medical insurance, which is mandatory and automatically added to the application.
Saudi Arabia Entry Points for UK Travelers
UK residents with a valid visa can enter SAUDI ARABIA MARINE VISA through all major airports and land borders, including:
King Abdulaziz International Airport – Jeddah
King Khalid International Airport – Riyadh
King Fahd International Airport – Dammam
Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport – Medina
Also permitted via select land borders with UAE, Jordan, and Bahrain.
Can UK Residents Perform Umrah on a Tourist eVisa?
Yes, Muslim UK citizens and residents can perform Umrah using the tourist eVisa, provided it is outside the Hajj season.
Hajj requires a specific Hajj visa
Tourist eVisa cannot be used for Hajj pilgrimage
Important Travel Notes for UK Residents
Overstaying your visa results in fines of SAR 100 per day
Ensure passport validity is 6+ months on date of arrival
Visa cannot be extended beyond its 90-day limit
Non-Muslims are not allowed to visit Mecca or parts of Medina
Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially during Ramadan
Tips for a Smooth Saudi Travel Experience
Keep a printed copy of your eVisa at all times
Ensure your accommodation matches what’s declared in the visa
Have proof of onward or return ticket
Download the Tawakkalna and Nusuk apps, especially if visiting for Umrah
Book with airlines that are approved for Saudi-bound flights from the UK
FAQs – Saudi Visa for UK Residents
Q: Can a UK resident with a non-UK passport apply for the Saudi eVisa?
Yes, if your passport is from one of the eligible eVisa countries. Otherwise, you must apply through the Saudi embassy.
Q: Can I stay for 90 consecutive days in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. The tourist eVisa allows a maximum of 90 continuous days per visit.
Q: Can I re-enter Saudi Arabia after leaving during the visa validity?
Yes. The visa is multiple-entry, valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
Q: Is travel insurance included in the visa fee?
Yes, mandatory medical insurance is automatically bundled into the eVisa.
Conclusion
Traveling to Saudi Arabia from the UK has never been easier. With the Saudi eVisa for UK residents, you can stay up to 90 days per visit, explore the Kingdom’s rich history, perform Umrah, and experience the hospitality of the Gulf. Apply online, get approved in days, and enjoy a seamless journey to one of the world’s most culturally fascinating destinations.