Complete Guide to the Saudi Visa
Saudi Arabia is a country full of captivating mysteries. Home to ancient historical sites like Mecca and Medina, it offers not only spiritual significance but also breathtaking desert landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities. Modern cities like Riyadh seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, while the country’s unique culinary culture adds to its charm. This makes Saudi Arabia an exceptional travel destination for those looking to experience authentic Middle Eastern heritage, explore rich history, and enjoy nature’s beauty.
The first step to visiting Saudi Arabia is obtaining a Saudi visa. In this article, we will guide you through the visa application process, costs, important tips, and other essential details to help you prepare for your journey.
Do Malaysian Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Malaysian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Since 28 September 2019, Saudi Arabia has opened tourist visa applications to citizens of 49 countries, including Malaysia. Malaysians can apply for a Saudi e-visa, which comes with the following features:
- Validity and Duration of Stay: The e-visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries. Each stay can last up to 90 days per entry.
- Application Process: You can apply online. Required documents include the passport biodata page, the original passport, a passport-sized photo with a white background, a copy of your ID, and other supporting materials. Applicants must fill in their personal details, travel plans, and pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
- Purpose of Visit: The e-visa is suitable for tourism, business, and general visits. However, travel to Mecca for religious purposes such as Hajj requires a special visa and is not covered under the tourist e-visa.
Types of Saudi Visas
1. Tourist Visas
- Electronic Tourist Visa (e-Visa):
This visa is intended for short-term tourism. It is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding 90 days. The total number of days allowed per year is also capped at 90 days. - Visa on Arrival:
If you did not apply for an e-visa in advance, you may apply for a visa on arrival at a Saudi airport. However, this may involve longer waiting times and additional fees.
2. Business Visa
This visa is primarily for individuals visiting Saudi Arabia for business meetings, conferences, inspections, and related activities. It usually allows multiple entries within a year, with each stay limited to 90 days.
3. Work Visas
- Work and Residency Permit (Iqama):
For those planning to live and work in Saudi Arabia long-term. This visa allows the holder to work legally and reside in the country. - Family Companion Visa:
Allows family members of work visa or residency permit holders to accompany them in Saudi Arabia. Under certain conditions, dependents may also be allowed to work. - Investor Visa:
Issued to individuals involved in specific investment projects in Saudi Arabia, enabling them to conduct investment-related activities. - Professional and Technical Work Visa:
For skilled professionals such as doctors, engineers, and other specialists to engage in work related to their expertise. - Cultural and Educational Work Visa:
For individuals involved in cultural or educational activities in Saudi Arabia, such as teachers, artists, and cultural workers. - Short-Term Work Visa:
Suitable for those working in Saudi Arabia for a limited period, such as temporary projects or short-term training. It has a fixed validity and requires exit upon expiry. - Long-Term Work Visa:
For individuals entering into long-term employment, typically under a work contract or employer sponsorship. - High-Skilled Work Visa:
Designed for highly qualified professionals like senior managers, scientists, and specialists. It includes additional benefits and privileges.
4. Student Visa
This visa is for students pursuing education or participating in academic programs in Saudi Arabia. Applicants must provide an invitation letter, original and copy of the passport, photographs, medical and vaccination certificates, ID copies, and other required documents.
5. Hajj Visa
This visa is specifically for Muslims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage. It is generally issued from after Eid al-Fitr until around 25 November. Applications are coordinated through official Islamic organizations.
6. Family Visit Visa
Applicants must submit documents proving family relationships, such as ID cards, household registration, marriage certificates, and children's birth certificates. All documents must be notarized and authenticated, including by the Saudi Embassy's consular section.
7. Government Visit Visa
Issued for official visits and intergovernmental exchanges. Applicants must submit an official approval letter, including a visa reference number and approved dates, from the relevant Saudi government department.
8. Premium Residency Visa
- Special Talent Visa:
For executives and professionals in healthcare, scientific research, and similar fields. - Professional Talent Visa:
For individuals with expertise in cultural or athletic fields. - Investor Visa:
For active business investors making significant contributions in Saudi Arabia. - Entrepreneur Visa:
Designed for innovative entrepreneurs establishing new businesses in the country. - Property Owner Visa:
Granted to individuals who own property in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia eSIM 3 Day
- CountrySaudi Arabia
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days3 Day
- PriceMYR29.26
Saudi Arabia eSIM 5 Days
- CountrySaudi Arabia
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days5 Days
- PriceMYR47.91
Saudi Arabia eSIM 7 Days
- CountrySaudi Arabia
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days7 Days
- PriceMYR66.55
What Are the Benefits of a Saudi Visa?
Tourist Visa
- Multiple Entry Convenience:
The Saudi tourist visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries. Each stay can last up to 90 days, with a maximum total of 90 days per year. This makes it ideal for travelers who wish to visit Saudi Arabia several times within a year and explore its rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions in depth. - Simple and Efficient Application:
You can apply for the visa through a local Saudi embassy or consulate, online, or at select airports in Saudi Arabia. The online application process is quick and user-friendly, saving time and effort. - Experience a Unique Culture:
With a tourist visa, visitors can explore Saudi Arabia’s distinct cultural and natural landscapes, including religious sites like Mecca and Medina (note: access is restricted to Muslims), vast deserts, the Red Sea coastline, and more. It offers an immersive way to experience the kingdom’s charm and heritage.
Business Visa
- Expand Business Opportunities:
This visa enables business professionals to travel to Saudi Arabia for meetings, contract negotiations, market research, and other commercial activities. It promotes international collaboration and access to the growing Saudi and Middle Eastern markets. - Long-Term and Multiple Entry Access:
Business visas often allow multiple entries within a year, with each stay limited to 90 days. This flexibility supports long-term business projects and ongoing partnerships without the need for frequent visa renewals. - Enhanced Business Credibility:
Securing a Saudi business visa demonstrates official recognition of your business activities, enhancing your credibility and reputation among Saudi partners and increasing trust in business collaborations.
Premium Residency Visa
- Long-Term Residency Rights:
The Premium Residency Visa offers options for both limited-term and permanent residency. It’s available to investors, property owners, and other qualified individuals, allowing them to live, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia with long-term stability. - Family Reunification:
The main applicant can bring their spouse and children under 21, all of whom are eligible for residency. Children over 21 and parents can also obtain residency as dependents, facilitating full family reunification. - Exclusive Privileges and Benefits:
Premium residency holders do not require a local sponsor. They can own property, register vehicles, and use dedicated Saudi citizen lanes at airports, offering greater convenience in both daily life and travel. - Flexible Employment Options:
The main applicant, spouse, and children can work in the private sector and change jobs freely, allowing greater flexibility for personal career development and professional growth.
Hotel Popular di Riyadah
5 star
Great107 Ulasan
Riyadh|1.83km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is totally awesome with super friendly staff across all roles that make me feel the hospitality of Riyadh. The hotel is new with awesome view of the kingdom center. It is within 5 mins walk to the metro station and is closed to a shopping mall.DariUS$ 172
Very Good49 Ulasan
Riyadh|2.16km dari pusat bandar
The luxury and beauty of the place, the good reception, the distinguished location, in addition to the buffet, the quality and delicious food, and the deliciousness and tasteDariUS$ 192
Amazing63 Ulasan
Riyadh|0.26km dari pusat bandar
The Four Seasons Riyadh, which was renovated in 2024, has a good aesthetic and there is nothing to complain about the stay experience. The view from the Kingdom Center is a great place to enjoy the sunset every day. The shopping mall downstairs is also under renovation, so it is not very convenient to visit for the time being. It is worth mentioning that the gym is huge, with a full range of equipment for every subdivision.DariUS$ 317
Amazing60 Ulasan
Riyadh|6.04km dari pusat bandar
Excellent service, cleanliness, peace, and complete comfort. I hope they continue with the same high standards. Thank you for the warm welcome.DariUS$ 145
Very Good50 Ulasan
Riyadh|1.84km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is newly opened. Everything is new. This is my first criterion for choosing a hotel. A very design hotel. The staff, especially the receptionist, are very warm and polite. Their smiles make people feel warm. The location is also very good. It is very convenient to go anywhere. It is not far from the landmark building King Tower. The bedding is also very clean and comfortable. It exceeded my expectations, so I gave it a full five-star rating.DariUS$ 173
Very Good103 Ulasan
Riyadh|1.61km dari pusat bandar
Guys at the reception and the concierge were kind and very professional. The location is perfect to reach any spot. Common areas very curated. Tha bathroom is huge. Room cleanliness can be improved.DariUS$ 153
Great52 Ulasan
Riyadh|5.48km dari pusat bandar
The room is a bit old, but the service quality is good. The hotel's fitness center is super large and well-equipped. The hotel breakfast is rich. Due to the inconvenient transportation around, there are not many restaurants. You can only eat in the hotelAmazing112 Ulasan
Riyadh|6.95km dari pusat bandar
During our stay, both Butler Kim and Butler Hani were incredibly kind, professional, and attentive. They made everything feel easy and comfortable from the moment we arrived. Kim, in particular, truly stood out. She was cheerful, warm, and very thoughtful, and even took the initiative to help my husband and me take beautiful photos, which meant so much to us. Her genuine care and positive energy made our experience feel personal rather than routine. DariUS$ 256
Business travel
Very Good173 Ulasan
Riyadh|0.2km dari pusat bandar
I never thought I'd get the chance to visit Saudi Arabia, and I happened to pick a downtown hotel right near a metro station. Plus, it's directly across from the Kingdom Centre, where you can buy tickets in the afternoon to go up and see the night view. The overall price was good, and it's super convenient for city sightseeing and getting to the airport.DariUS$ 50
Amazing81 Ulasan
Riyadh|0.74km dari pusat bandar
I like this superior queen room layout a lot. Spacious and equip with essentials. I like the bench as a comfortable seating area where u can rest before going to bed. Toilet I water pressure is good. Good smell for toiletries.
I also enjoy swimming pool and the jacuzzi looks nice. Just different timings for gym and spa for men and women. Please be aware. Good for families too as some families with young kids around.DariUS$ 65
Great59 Ulasan
Riyadh|13.34km dari pusat bandar
Big size room with comfy bed , number of choice for breakfast in arabic style, front desk staff is very polite and helpful , neat and clean property ,there is no any convenient store surrounding hotel that is drawbackDariUS$ 90
Great68 Ulasan
Riyadh|11.29km dari pusat bandar
The room was fantastic, and the environment was great. Breakfast was abundant, and the omelets were delicious. The staff were professional too. It's right next to Riyadh's largest mosque, and they welcome Chinese tourists, making for a truly immersive experience.DariUS$ 106
Very Good61 Ulasan
Riyadh|11.68km dari pusat bandar
It is very convenient for business trips, the environment is very good, and there is a kitchenDariUS$ 144
Great239 Ulasan
Riyadh|6.15km dari pusat bandar
Amazing hotel!
Room is spacious, bed is soft and very comfortable. We kindly requested later check-out since we checked in after midnight, and they accommodated our request.
Room has a work table with stationery.
Good toiletries and comfy bathrobes are provided. Concierge service is outstanding.
The location is slightly far from all the main tourist attractions, so bear this in mind.
Will definitely stay here again if traveling to Riyadh.DariUS$ 78
Very Good78 Ulasan
Riyadh|3.84km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is very close to the city center. Although the decoration is very old, it is very cost-effective. The room we stayed in did not have a bathtub, but I personally felt it was very comfortable. The transportation nearby is very convenient and it is close to the bus stationDariUS$ 58
Great59 Ulasan
Riyadh|1.85km dari pusat bandar
Nice hotel, it is an old, however, the staff are lovely. The location is good. Breakfast also great!DariUS$ 139
Breakfast
Very Good78 Ulasan
Riyadh|3.54km dari pusat bandar
Well, it's hard to describe. There's a construction site nearby that's very noisy at night, which is enough to make you not choose this hotel. Plus, they tried to get you to pay extra at the front desk, and even after communicating with Ctrip, they still insisted on adding more money. In the end, Ctrip had to use points to cover the extra cost. I don't know what they were thinking. Anyway, be careful when booking this hotel.
Facilities: The toilet drainage is particularly bad.
Cleanliness: No problem.
Environment: Too noisy outside.
Service: Average.DariUS$ 62
Amazing56 Ulasan
Riyadh|3.42km dari pusat bandar
This is the most comfortable hotel I have ever stayed in in Riyadh. Although the room is not large, the interior lighting design is very warm. Bathrobes, slippers, toothbrushes, combs, razors and other hygiene products are fully prepared.DariUS$ 106
Very Good181 Ulasan
Riyadh|9.18km dari pusat bandar
Overall it was wonderful meeting people like Moataz Mersal - he was always very quick in welcoming my wife n I to the Nakheel restaurant. Great food great service - thumbs up! Then there was Raghad (guest services) who gave timely and sound advice to my wife regarding safety n metro directions to National Museum etc. Need to mention Montaser n Ahmed as well! Such attentive staff at the bar & gym! 👍
On the other hand, the housekeeping team needs re-training. Everyday (for four days three nights) they forgot to replenish items in the room! We had to keep calling them! 👎DariUS$ 50
Amazing64 Ulasan
Riyadh|6.28km dari pusat bandar
This hotel deserves 5 stars. The furniture is clean, there's no noise, and all the services are well-organized. I will definitely visit again in the future. And I'd like to thank Faisal and the staff for their excellent demeanor.DariUS$ 77
Very Good214 Ulasan
Riyadh|7.68km dari pusat bandar
This hotel is really close to my client's office, and the surrounding area has convenient transportation and plenty of dining options. There's also a mid-sized supermarket nearby. Overall, it's pretty good. It would be even better if the breakfast were a bit more substantial. I'll definitely book here again for future business trips.DariUS$ 52
Amazing105 Ulasan
Riyadh|1.3km dari pusat bandar
Excellent staff — very friendly, courteous, and accommodating. We arrived well before check-in, and the team kindly arranged an early room, which was greatly appreciated.
I can’t thank the staff at check-in, the restaurant, and room service enough for their hospitality, kindness, and respect.
The room was large, clean, and well maintained, with a comfortable king bed, plenty of power outlets, quiet and efficient air-conditioning, and good amenities.
The buffet breakfast was very good, with daily variety, fresh juices, an omelette station cooked to order, a good bread selection, and decent machine coffee.
Location as with 15 to 20 minutes from all attractions and malls. Ubers and Bolt was ready available. Sky bridge was walkable during cold but would be a challenge during the hot season.
Down points:
• Premium room was expected to be on a higher floor, but the room faced the roof line with no view.
• Shower head would not stay in position and kept sliding down.
Overall, a pleasant stay with excellent service, with only minor room issues.DariUS$ 101
Very Good54 Ulasan
Riyadh|5.01km dari pusat bandar
The breakfast is very rich. The braised beef curry chicken tastes good and is quite comfortable. A taxi from the airport costs about 200 yuan. The price of food in the room service is slightly higher. The taste is not bad.DariUS$ 107
Very Good103 Ulasan
Riyadh|8.07km dari pusat bandar
These days I feel very comfortable, the hotel facilities are OK, the hotel staff is very friendly, the chef is also very good, gave me a meal of noodles, generally speaking, the stay experience is good, but the breakfast can be more rich.DariUS$ 90
Validity and Duration of Stay for Saudi Visas
| Visa Type | Validity Period | Duration of Stay |
|---|---|---|
Tourist Visa | 1 year | You may stay up to three months per entry, with a total maximum of 90 days within the one-year validity period. |
Business Visa | 1 year | Each stay must not exceed 90 days, with a total stay of up to 90 days within the validity period. |
Student Visa | If the student is enrolled in a short-term program, the visa is typically valid for 1 year. If the student is accepted into a long-term degree program, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, the visa is usually valid for up to 5 years. | A Saudi student visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days per entry during the 1-year visa validity. If the study program exceeds 90 days, the student will be granted a long-term visa matching the duration of the program, allowing them to stay in Saudi Arabia until graduation. |
Saudi Visa Application Requirements
Tourist Visa
- Valid Passport: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have at least two blank visa pages.
- Passport Photo: Recent color photo with white background, taken within the last six months, sized 3.5cm × 4.5cm.
- Other Documents: Copy of identification card and other supporting documents. Applicants under 18 years old must apply together with one parent who will enter the country with them.
Business Visa
- Basic Personal Information: The last page of the passport must be signed by the holder and valid for at least six months, with at least two blank pages available for visa use. If there is an old passport, all passports must be provided. Provide three recent two-inch photos with white background, attached to the front and back of the personal information form.
- Chinese Unit Information: An official letter from the applicant’s company written in English and printed on company letterhead, including company address, phone and fax numbers, and other contact details. The letter must state the applicant’s passport number, date of birth, position, salary, duration and purpose of travel, and confirm the applicant will comply with the destination country’s laws and return on time. The letter must be stamped with the company’s official seal and signed, or include the organization’s code certificate with official seal.
- Foreign Invitation Materials: Copy of electronic invitation letter issued by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce or Ministry of Foreign Affairs; copy of the business license of the inviting Saudi company.
Work Visa
- Basic Personal Information: Original and copy of passport valid for at least 6 months; two recent color passport photos sized 3.5cm × 4.5cm with white background taken within the last six months.
- Company Information: Copy of the company’s business license with official seal. The work permit must be approved by the Saudi Ministry of Labor, and the applicant must hold the approval document including the work visa number and date.
- Other Documents: Professional and technical staff must provide certified copies of academic certificates approved by the official agency of their country and the Saudi consular department. A medical examination report issued by an accredited hospital or health institution and certified by the relevant authority is required. A written consent letter from the female worker’s guardian agreeing to travel and work in Saudi Arabia must also be provided.
Student Visa
- Basic Documents: Original invitation letter or copy of passport and two recent color photos sized 3.5cm × 4.5cm with white background taken within the last six months; copy of identification card.
- Health Certificate: Original medical examination certificate and vaccination certificate.
Visit Visa
- Family Visit Visa: Personal identification card, original household registration, marriage certificate, and original and copy of child’s birth certificate are required. Documents proving family relationship must be authenticated and certified by the Consular Department of the Saudi Embassy.
- Business Visit Visa: Personal identification card, professional and academic certificates and their copies, invitation letter certified by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and an official letter issued by the applicant’s unit to the Saudi diplomatic office are required. The official letter must state the level of business, purpose and duration of the visit, name of the Saudi company visited, etc. A copy of the business license must accompany the letter. The spouse of the Saudi company’s employee must also be included.
- Pergi Balik
- Sehala
KUL09:5010j 25m1 stopsRUH15:15Kuala Lumpur - Riyadh|Jum, 4 Sep|Etihad AirwaysRUH16:5021j 55m1 stopsKUL19:45Riyadh - Kuala Lumpur|Isn, 7 Sep|Etihad AirwaysUS$ 556US$ 5926% offCari6% offUS$ 592US$ 556- KUL09:5010j 25m1 stopsRUH15:15Kuala Lumpur - Riyadh|Jum, 4 Sep|Etihad AirwaysRUH22:3016j 15m1 stopsKUL19:45Riyadh - Kuala Lumpur|Sel, 8 Sep|Etihad AirwaysUS$ 556US$ 5926% offCari6% offUS$ 592US$ 556
- KUL09:5010j 25m1 stopsRUH15:15Kuala Lumpur - Riyadh|Jum, 4 Sep|Etihad AirwaysRUH22:3016j 15m1 stopsKUL19:45Riyadh - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 9 Sep|Etihad AirwaysUS$ 556US$ 5926% offCari6% offUS$ 592US$ 556
KUL13:0010j 25mTanpa hentiRUH14:00Kuala Lumpur - Riyadh|Mon, Sep 6|Normal Airline
RUH13:0010j 25mTanpa hentiKUL14:00Riyadh - Kuala Lumpur|Mon, Sep 6|Normal AirlineCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
How to Apply for a Saudi Visa
Gambar dari Saudi visa online | SaudiVisa.com
1. Determine the Type of Visa and Prepare Documents
Choose the visa type based on the purpose of your trip, such as tourist visa, business visa, work visa, student visa, etc. Different visa types require different documents.
- Tourist Visa: Usually requires basic documents such as the main passport page, original passport, passport-sized photos with white background, and a copy of your identification card.
- Business Visa: Generally requires the original and copy of your passport, two passport photos, a copy of your ID card or work permit, invitation letter from the Saudi company, a copy of the Saudi company’s business license, a company introduction letter, and a copy of your own company’s business license.
- Work Visa: Requires the original and copy of your passport, two passport photos, a copy of your ID card, a copy of your company’s business license, documents proving the work permit is approved by the Saudi Ministry of Labor, and approval documents with the work visa number and date.
- Student Visa: Requires the original or copy of the invitation letter, original and copy of passport, two passport photos, original physical examination certificate and vaccination certificate, and a copy of your identification card.
2. Fill in the Online Application Form
- Visit the official Saudi visa application website: https://saudivisa.com/
- Follow the step-by-step instructions provided by the system to complete the application form.
3. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable visa fee according to the visa type and application method. Payment can be made online using credit or debit cards.
4. Wait for Review and Provide Additional Documents if Required
- After submitting your application, wait for the Saudi Visa Department to review it. The review period usually takes 3-5 working days but may take longer depending on the visa type and application status.
- During the review process, the visa department may request additional documents or an interview. Pay close attention to notifications via email or the application system and submit any requested materials promptly.
5. Receive Your Visa
- Once your visa application is approved, you can either visit the Saudi Embassy or Consulate to collect your visa or opt to receive your passport and visa by mail.
- Upon receiving your visa, carefully check that all information is correct, including the visa validity dates, length of stay, personal details, etc. If there are any errors, contact the Saudi Embassy or Consulate promptly for corrections.
How Much Does a Saudi Visa Cost?
The fees for a Saudi visa vary depending on the type of visa. Below are the reference fees:
- The fee for a tourist e-visa is usually around 395 SAR.
- The fee for a visa on arrival is 300 SAR for the visa plus 95 SAR for insurance.
- The business visa fee is approximately 500 SAR.
- Another type of business visa may cost around 736 SAR.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Saudi Visa?
Electronic Tourist Visa
Under normal circumstances, the review and issuance of an e-tourist visa usually takes between 1 minute and up to 3 working days.
Business Visa
- Single-entry Visa: Typically takes about 4 to 7 working days for processing.
- Multiple-entry Visa: For UAE residents applying for a multiple-entry business visa to Saudi Arabia, the process usually takes 7 to 10 working days due to additional requirements and reviews.
Work Visa
First, the employer must apply for a work permit for the applicant from the Saudi Ministry of Labor. This process takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks. After the work permit is approved, the applicant then applies for the Saudi work visa, which usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to process.
Family Visit Visa
- Single-entry Visa: Usually reviewed and issued within 1 to 2 weeks.
- Multiple-entry Visa: Generally takes 2 to 3 weeks to process due to the need for more documentation.
Transit Visa
Typically takes 1 to 2 working days. In emergency cases, review and issuance can often be completed within 24 hours.
Student Visa
After receiving the admission letter from the Saudi educational institution, students prepare and submit all required documents. Processing time at the consulate usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
FAQs: Saudi Visa
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Do Malaysian citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
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How long can I stay with a tourist visa?
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How long does it take to process a tourist visa application?
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