Saudi Tourist e-Visa for UAE Residents: Who Qualifies and How to Apply

Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea – and of course Makkah and Madinah. Saudi Arabia is right next door, and for many UAE residents the tourist e-Visa is the easiest way in. Here are the main routes.

Route 1: Eligible nationalities

Citizens of a long list of countries (including the US, UK, most European countries, Japan, Malaysia and others) can apply for the Saudi tourist e-Visa online or get a visa on arrival.

Route 2: Holders of US, UK or Schengen visas

Since 2023, travellers who hold a valid US, UK or Schengen business or tourist visa – and have used it at least once to enter the issuing country – can apply for the Saudi e-Visa, regardless of nationality. Permanent residents of the US, UK or EU are also eligible, as are their first-degree relatives.

Tip: this route helps many Indian, Pakistani and Filipino residents of the UAE who already have a used UK, US or Schengen visa.

Route 3: GCC residents

Saudi Arabia also offers an e-Visa route for residents of GCC countries, including the UAE. Eligibility conditions (such as residence validity and, at times, profession) have changed over the years – so we always check the current rule for your case before applying.

Route 4: Other visa types

• Family visit visa – if you have relatives living and working in Saudi Arabia
• Business visit visa – for meetings with a Saudi company
• Umrah visa through licensed operators

Documents for the e-Visa (typical)

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• UAE residence visa (valid for at least 3 months) and Emirates ID
• Personal photo on a white background
• Your used US/UK/Schengen visa (for Route 2)
• Hotel booking or host details
• Mandatory health insurance, purchased with the visa

Can I perform Umrah on the tourist visa?

Yes – Umrah is permitted on the tourist visa outside the Hajj season. Permits and bookings for the Holy Mosques are managed through the official Nusuk platform. Read our Umrah on a tourist visa guide.

How fast is it?

Once the application is complete and eligible, many e-Visas are approved within minutes to a few days.

Let us check your route

Send us your nationality and UAE residence details and we'll tell you which route works for you – free. Apply for your Saudi visa.