Guide to Saudi Arabia Visa for UAE Residents

Saudi Arabia, a key economic and tourism destination in the Middle East, has become a magnet for millions of visitors and foreign nationals. As per reports, the country recorded more than 27 million foreign visitors in 2023 alone. 

Saudi Arabia issues visas for the following purposes — tourism, business, family visits, transit, hajj/umrah, education, and work/employment. While it allows UAE citizens to visit the country without a visa, those staying in the Emirates but belonging to other countries may need a Saudi visa for UAE residents. 

Here's your complete guide for all the details related to the Saudi Arabia visa for UAE residents.

What is the Saudi Arabia Visa for UAE Residents?

Those living in the UAE with a resident visa (valid for 2, 3, 5, or 10 years) can apply for a multiple-entry visa to visit Saudi Arabia. This is called an e-Visa, which makes the process highly convenient — as this is an electronic one, you don’t need to visit an Embassy. 

Saudi e-Visa for UAE Residents — An Overview

This visa is ideal if you want to go to Saudi as a tourist. 

Note: As this is primarily a tourist visa, keep in mind that it doesn’t cover the Hajj season or allow you to stay in the country for studies or any other purposes.

• Processing time — usually 8 days
• Validity — 1 year 
• Allows stay in Saudi Arabia for up to — 90 days (each visit) 

Do You Qualify for the Saudi Visa for UAE Residents?

To check that, you need to meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents — 

Eligibility

• Passport validity — 6 months or more
• Minimum age — 18 years 
• Residency permit — at least 3 months

Documents Required

• Proof of medical insurance
• Residential proof 
• Flight tickets
• Passport-size photo with a white background

How to Apply for Saudi Visa from Dubai?

You can easily get a Saudi Arabia visa for UAE residents through the official KSA Visa portal.

Here are the steps — 

• Head to the official website — ksavisa.sa.
• Click on ‘menu’ and choose ‘apply for visa’.
• Fill out the details, which will include 
  • Purpose of visit
  • Nationality
  • Whether you have a valid visa in the US, Schengen region, the GCC, etc (visible after you select the nationality)

• You will then get to see the visa categories available. 
• Choose the most relevant one and hit ‘apply’. 
• Provide information related to your travel itinerary, residence, passport, insurance, and more.
• Go through the terms and conditions. Review your application.

• Pay the application fee, which is around AED 450 (~SAR 460).

How to Check the Status of a Saudi Visa for UAE Residents?

After you apply for the visa, you can also track its status —

• Head to the official visa portal, i.e. ksavisa.sa.
• Choose the ‘Track Application’ option.
• You can provide either your ‘application/visa number’ or ‘ID number’.
• Enter the captcha to find your visa application status.

FAQs

1. Do UAE residents need visa for Saudi Arabia?

This will depend on your nationality. For instance, if you hold a passport of a GCC country and stay in the UAE, you may not need a visa for Saudi Arabia. However, if you are a UAE resident but belong to a country that doesn’t have a visa-free arrangement with Saudi, you will need to apply for a visa. 

1. How much is the Saudi tourist visa for UAE residents?

Saudi Arabia e-visa cost for UAE residents is around AED 450 or SAR 460. 

1. Can I get visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, although the provision for visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia depends on your nationality. For example, if you hold a passport of the US, Singapore, or the UK, you can easily get a visa after you arrive in the country.