The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a distinct set of entry and exit requirements, designed to protect its citizens—and its visitors at the same time. This is the documentation you’ll need to visit.

Travel to Saudi Arabia: Know Before You Go

From documents to vaccinations, here’s everything you’ll need to bring with you for international arrivals to Saudi Arabia’s international airports.

Saudi Arabia Required Documents

  • Passport: You’ll need to travel with a valid passport that has at least two blank pages. It should also be valid for at least six months beyond the date of travel.
  • Valid Visa: With a few exceptions, all foreign nationals are required to have a valid travel visa to enter Saudi Arabia, whether it’s a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, e-Visa, Business Visa, or Hajj or Umrah Pilgrimage Visa. You can typically get tourist visas within 10 business days.
  • Entry and Exit Forms: Entry and exit forms are required for all passengers who enter or leave Saudi Arabia by air or sea.
  • Medical Insurance: Aside from private Saudi citizens and residents, all travelers are required to have medical insurance covering treatment for COVID-19.

Saudi Arabia’s entry requirements may vary by country. Confirm if there’s anything else you need to enter Saudi Arabia by contacting Entriva, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or your country’s Saudi Arabian embassy.

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How Do I Obtain a Passport?

If you do not already have a passport, you can apply for one at your local passport office. The process typically takes four to six weeks, so make sure to apply well in advance of your trip. If you already have a passport, make sure to check its expiration date and renew it if necessary.

To get a United States passport, an American citizen needs to follow these steps:

  1. Fill out form DS-11: The DS-11 form is available online or can be obtained at a passport acceptance facility.
  2. Gather required documents: You will need to provide proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license).
  3. Get a passport photo taken: Your photo must meet specific requirements, such as size, lighting, and positioning.
  4. Pay the application fee: The fee varies depending on the type of passport and the processing time selected. The average processing time for a new passport is four to six weeks, but expedited services are available for an additional cost.
  5. Submit your application in person: You can submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, which can be found at many post offices, courthouses, and libraries.
  6. Track your application status: You can check the status of your passport application online or by phone.
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How Do I Obtain A Saudi Arabia Visa?

You can apply for a business or tourist visa online through a service provider like Entriva or the Saudi Arabia government’s official website, or in person at your country’s Saudi embassy. The application process typically takes 10 days, depending on the type of Saudi visa you are applying for. Make sure to apply for your Saudi visas well in advance of your trip to allow for processing time.

Please note that if you’re making a pilgrimage to a religious site, like Mecca, Saudi visas are still a must. You’ll have to obtain a pilgrimage visa, which requires special, additional steps. Along with the documentation you need for a tourist visa, you’ll also need to:

  • Book directly with a licensed Hajj tour operator
  • Complete the Hajj application form
  • Provide proof of your Islamic faith
  • Obtain any required vaccinations
  • Follow Hajj regulations as stipulated by Saudi authorities

Saudi Arabia Health Requirements and Screenings

The Saudi government has the following health requirements for travelers seeking to enter the country:

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COVID-19

All travelers must carry medical insurance that covers treatment for COVID-19. Restrictions and requirements are subject to change, so be sure to check for updates from the Saudi Arabia government’s Ministry of Health or the US embassy in Saudi Arabia.

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Prescriptions

If you need to bring your medical prescription drugs with you to Saudi Arabia, you should be aware of the following requirements:

  • You must have a valid prescription for each medication you are bringing. The prescription must be in English or Arabic, and it must be signed by a licensed doctor.
  • You must carry the medication in its original packaging. The packaging must be clearly labeled with the name of the medication, the dosage, and the expiration date.
  • You must bring a copy of your medical passport if you have one. A medical passport is a document that lists all of your medical conditions and medications.
  • You may be required to declare your medication at the airport. When you declare your medication, you will need to provide the following information:
    • The name of the medication
    • The dosage
    • The number of pills or capsules
    • The expiration date
  • You may be required to pay customs duty on your medication. The amount of the customs duty will vary depending on the type of medication and the amount you are bringing.
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Medical Records

If you’re traveling to Saudi Arabia for medical reasons, keep in mind the following:

  • You will need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and you will also need health insurance that covers medical expenses in Saudi Arabia.
  • Research your options. There are many medical facilities in Saudi Arabia, and not all were created equal. Do some research to find a facility that is reputable and has the expertise to treat your condition.
  • Bring a copy of your medical records. This will help the doctors in Saudi Arabia understand your condition and provide you with the best possible care.
  • Bring a list of your medications. This will allow the doctors in Saudi Arabia to know what medications you are taking and make sure they are compatible with the medications that are available in Saudi Arabia.
  • Bring a translator. If you do not speak Arabic, you will need a translator to help you communicate with the doctors and nurses in Saudi Arabia.

Preparing for Your Saudi Arabia Trip

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a Saudi Arabia visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to Saudi Arabia, including travel restrictions, visa extensions, and culture and traditions, visit our Saudi Arabia content hub.