Travel visa · GCC · 2026
Saudi Arabia visa for UAE residents (2026)
Saudi Arabia is open to UAE citizens without a visa under GCC rules. Most other UAE residents can get a tourist e-visa online if their nationality is on the eligible list, and holders of valid US, UK or Schengen visas or residence permits may also qualify. Umrah pilgrims manage their permits through the Nusuk platform.
- GCC citizens
- Visa-free Emiratis and other GCC nationals enter with a passport or national ID card.
- Tourist e-visa
- Dozens of eligible nationalities Includes US, UK, Schengen and Russian passports; holders of valid US/UK/Schengen visas or residence may also apply.
- e-visa terms
- One year, multiple entry, up to 90 days per visit Medical insurance is bundled into the e-visa package; Umrah is permitted outside the Hajj season.
- Umrah permits
- Issued via the Nusuk platform Muslim residents book Umrah and Rawdah slots online before travelling.
Visas
Who needs this visa
- UAE citizens — as GCC nationals, Emiratis enter Saudi Arabia without any visa, on a passport alone.
- UAE residents — the rule follows the passport: dozens of nationalities (including US, UK, most EU and Russian passports) are eligible for the tourist e-visa.
- Residents of other nationalities — if the passport is not on the e-visa list, a standard visa is required; a valid US, UK or Schengen visa or residence permit can open e-visa eligibility.
- Where to apply — online at the official portal visa.visitsaudi.com; non-eligible passports apply at the Saudi Embassy in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General in Dubai or an accredited visa office.
Document checklist
Document checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date
- Digital passport photo on a white background
- Confirmed return or onward flight booking
- Hotel reservation or address of stay in Saudi Arabia
- Medical insurance — included with the e-visa; arranged separately for embassy-route applications
- Copy of the UAE residence visa (requested by embassies and accredited offices)
- Employer letter or NOC — for applications submitted through the embassy or an accredited office
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds (embassy route)
- Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination certificate for Umrah pilgrims
Process
How it works
-
Check eligibility
Same dayConfirm the passport is on the official e-visa list, or that a valid US/UK/Schengen visa or residence permit makes you eligible.
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Apply online
15-30 minutesComplete the form at visa.visitsaudi.com, upload a passport scan and pay by card.
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Receive the e-visa
Usually within 24 hoursApproval arrives by email against the passport; most applications are decided automatically.
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Book travel
1-2 daysReserve flights and hotels; keep a digital or printed copy of the visa for check-in.
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Embassy route (non-eligible passports)
3-10 working daysSubmit documents, photo and NOC to the embassy, consulate or an accredited visa office and attend any required appointment.
-
Umrah permits
Same dayBook the Umrah permit and Rawdah slot on Nusuk before departure; permits are checked at the gates in Makkah.
Fees and rules checked September 2026 — confirm with the application center before booking.
Visa fees
Visa fees
| Fee item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tourist e-visa (with medical insurance) | Paid online at the official portal; the total depends on the insurance option selected |
| Embassy or consulate visa | Set by nationality and visa type; confirm with the mission |
| Umrah permit via Nusuk | Free of charge |
| GCC nationals | Not applicable — entry is visa-free |
Government fees are set in local currency; service fees are set by the application center. Checked Sep 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Do all UAE residents need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
No. UAE citizens, like all GCC nationals, enter without a visa. Other residents check their passport against the e-visa list; many nationalities, including Russian passport holders, qualify for the online tourist e-visa.
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist e-visa?
Yes, the tourist e-visa covers Umrah at any time outside the Hajj season. You still need to book the Umrah permit and Rawdah slot through the Nusuk platform before entering the holy sites.
My passport is not eligible for the e-visa. What are my options?
Check whether you hold a valid US, UK or Schengen visa or residence permit, which can make you eligible. Otherwise, apply for a standard visa at the Saudi Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai.
How long is the tourist e-visa valid?
It is valid for one year with multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days each. Insurance is bundled into the package, so no separate policy is needed at the border.
How fast is the e-visa issued?
Most applications are approved automatically within minutes to 24 hours. Apply at least a few days before travel in case of manual review.
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