Saudi Visit Visa For UAE Residents
Saudi Visit Visa For UAE Residents. If you’re a resident of the United Arab Emirates planning a trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it’s important to understand the Saudi Visit Visa for UAE Residents. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, Umrah, or to visit family, the Saudi government offers several visa options tailored to UAE residents.
This expert guide provides comprehensive information on the Saudi eVisa, visa-on-arrival eligibility, required documents, processing time, and more all optimized to help you navigate the application process smoothly and confidently.
Who Can Enter Saudi Arabia Without a Visa?
UAE citizens (Emirati nationals) are allowed to enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. However, UAE residents who hold passports from other nationalities will generally require a valid Saudi visa to enter the Kingdom.
Saudi Visit Visa Options for UAE Residents
The Saudi government provides multiple visa categories depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and residency status. Here’s an overview:
1. Saudi eVisa
The Saudi eVisa is the most popular visa option for UAE residents from non-visa-exempt countries. It can be applied for entirely online via the Visit Saudi website.
- Purpose: Tourism, Umrah (excluding Hajj), business.
- Validity: One year, multiple entry.
- Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per entry.
- Processing Time: 24–72 hours (sometimes instant for GCC residents).
2. Visa on Arrival
Some UAE residents may be eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia if they meet any of the following conditions:
- Hold a valid visa or residency in the US, UK, or Schengen countries.
- Passport from approved countries.
3. Specific Visa Types
Depending on the travel purpose, UAE residents may apply for:
- Umrah Visa
- Business Visa
- Family Visit Visa
- Work Visa
- Student Visa
- Medical Visa
- Transit Visa
- Personal Visa
Saudi Visa Requirements for UAE Residents
Applicants must fulfill certain Saudi visa requirements to be eligible:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| UAE Residency Permit | Valid for at least 3 months at the time of application. |
| Passport Validity | Minimum of 6 months validity with at least 2 blank pages. |
| Applicant Age | Must be 18 years or older. |
| Photograph | One recent passport-sized photo with a white background. |
| Completed Application Form | Signed by the applicant. |
| Visa Fees | Vary by nationality and processing speed. |
Types of Saudi Visas for UAE Residents
Below is a detailed table covering the types of Saudi visas and their associated requirements:
| Visa Type | Key Requirements |
|---|---|
| Business Visa | Letter from UAE employer, invitation from Saudi company, valid UAE job title. |
| Commercial/Work Visit Visa | Saudi Chamber of Commerce invitation, UAE employer letter with matching job title. |
| Family Visit Visa | Invitation from Saudi family member and proof of kinship (birth/marriage certificate). |
| Personal Visa | Invitation from a Saudi national via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. |
| Work Visa | Invitation + medical report + attested academic and work certificates + police clearance. |
| Student Visa | MOFA invitation + academic certificates + UAE Ministry and cultural attaché attestation. |
| Medical Visa | MOFA-issued medical treatment visa permit. |
| Transit Visa | Valid UAE residence, visa to third country, vehicle documents or bus company letter. |
| Residency Visa | MOFA invitation + medical report + embassy approval. |
| Escort Visa | Proof of kinship for UAE/GCC nationals; valid documentation for domestic workers. |
| Mission/Organization Visa | Invitation from MOFA + letter from sponsoring organization. |
| Government Visa | MOFA-issued invitation + official letter. |
| Merchandise Delivery Visa | Employer letter + consignment documentation + driver authorization. |
| Exit & Re-entry Visa | Saudi residency permit + sponsor letter + school certificate (if dependent is a student). |
| Hajj & Umrah Visas | Apply through accredited agents in the UAE (for religious travel only). |
How to Apply for a Saudi Visa from UAE
Here is a step-by-step overview to apply for a Saudi Visit Visa for UAE Residents:
- Determine Visa Type: Choose the correct visa based on your purpose (e.g., Umrah, business, family visit).
- Gather Documents:
- UAE residence visa valid for at least 90 days.
- Original passport with 6 months validity.
- Passport photo (white background).
- Apply Online (for eVisa):
- Visit Visit Saudi eVisa Portal.
- Create an account and fill out the online form.
- Upload documents and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for Approval:
- Processing time is usually 1–3 business days.
- Once approved, print your eVisa.
For other types of visas (e.g., work, family visit), applications may need to be submitted via a service center, authorized agent, or Saudi embassy.
Important Notes and Additional Tips
- Medical Reports: Required for work, student, and residency visas; must be from UAE government hospitals.
- Attestations: Academic documents must be attested by UAE Foreign Affairs and Saudi Cultural Attaché.
- Payment: Visa fees must be paid electronically via Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs payment portal.
FAQs About Saudi Visit Visa for UAE Residents
Can UAE citizens travel to Saudi Arabia without a visa?
Ans: Yes, UAE nationals (Emiratis) do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. However, UAE residents with other nationalities must obtain a valid visa based on their travel purpose.
How long does it take to process a Saudi eVisa for UAE residents?
Ans: Processing time for a Saudi eVisa is usually 24 to 72 hours, but some applications for GCC residents may be approved instantly.
Can I perform Umrah on a Saudi Visit Visa for UAE residents?
Ans: Yes, a Saudi Visit Visa (eVisa) allows Umrah visits except during the Hajj season. For Hajj, a special permit must be obtained through accredited agencies.
Conclusion
The Saudi Visit Visa for UAE Residents provides a convenient pathway for those looking to explore the Kingdom for religious, personal, or professional purposes. From the Saudi eVisa system to various specialized visa types, Saudi Arabia has streamlined its visa process to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and economic collaboration.
