If you’re a UK citizen thinking about travelling to Saudi Arabia, it’s completely normal to have questions about the visa. Many people worry it might be complicated or time-consuming. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case.
The Saudi Arabia Visa for UK Citizens is now available through a simple online system called the Saudi Arabia eVisa. You can apply from home, upload a few documents, and—if everything is correct—receive approval quite quickly.
This guide explains the whole process in a clear, human way. No confusing terms, no unnecessary detail—just what you actually need to know before you apply and travel.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes, they do. UK passport holders must have a visa before travelling to Saudi Arabia.
The easiest option for most people is the Saudi Arabia eVisa. It covers short-term travel and removes the need for paperwork, long waits, or in-person visits. If you’re visiting for tourism, family, events, or Umrah, the eVisa is usually the best choice.
What is the Saudi Arabia eVisa, and How Does It Work for UK Citizens?
The Saudi Arabia eVisa for UK Citizens is an electronic travel authorisation that’s linked directly to your passport. Once approved, it’s sent to your email.
What most travellers like about it:
- It’s valid for one year
- You can enter Saudi Arabia more than once
- You can stay up to 90 days at a time
- It’s suitable for tourism, family visits, events, and Umrah (except Hajj)
There’s no need to print stacks of documents or deal with complicated steps.
Which Saudi Arabia eVisa Types Can UK Citizens Choose From?
Before applying, it’s important to understand the available Saudi Arabia eVisa Types:
- Tourist eVisa – for holidays, sightseeing, and exploring the country
- Family Visit eVisa – if you’re visiting relatives in Saudi Arabia
- Event eVisa – for concerts, exhibitions, sports, or conferences
- Umrah eVisa – for performing Umrah outside the Hajj season
Once processing starts, the visa type can’t be changed, so choosing the right one at the beginning matters.
What Are the Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements for UK Citizens?
The Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements are simple and not difficult to meet.
- A valid UK passport
- A recent passport-size photo
- A clear scan of your passport bio page
- A working email address
- A payment method
That’s all. Just make sure the information you submit is accurate. Most problems happen because of small mistakes or missing details.
How Do UK Citizens Apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
The Apply eVisa process is straightforward and fully online:
- Fill in the application form
- Upload your documents
- Choose how fast you want the visa processed
- Pay securely online
- Receive your eVisa by email
You can complete the whole process in a short amount of time, even if it’s your first visit.
How Long Does Saudi Arabia eVisa Processing Take?
Saudi Arabia offers different eVisa processing speeds to suit your travel plans:
- Normal processing: 1–2 working days
- Rush processing: 6–12 hours
- Super rush processing: as fast as 1 hour
If you’re travelling soon, the faster options can be very helpful.
What Is the Typical eVisa Approval Time?
Most UK travellers receive their eVisa fairly quickly. Approval time mainly depends on:
- The processing option you choose
- Whether your documents and details are correct
If everything is filled in properly, delays are uncommon.
How Much Does the Saudi Arabia eVisa Cost and What About Refunds?
When looking at Saudi Arabia eVisa fees and refund rules, it helps to know what’s included.
What You Pay For
- A required government fee
- A required service fee
- An optional fee if you choose faster processing
Refund and Cancellation Rules
- Normal processing: cancellation allowed within 1 hour
- Rush or super rush: cancellation within 15 minutes
- No refunds once processing begins or the visa is issued
- Incorrect or misleading details are not refundable
- Refunds usually take 4–17 business days
- A refund processing fee (USD 20 or more) may apply
Refunds are always returned to the original payment method.
Which Payment Methods Can UK Travellers Use?
Payments are made online through secure systems. You can use:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- PayPal
- Apple Pay
All transactions are encrypted for safety.
What Immigration Rules Should UK Travellers Be Aware Of?
When travelling to Saudi Arabia, it’s important to:
- Follow the purpose of travel stated on your visa
- Respect local laws and customs
- Leave the country before your permitted stay ends
- Carry valid travel documents
Following these rules helps ensure a smooth visit.
Can You Work in Saudi Arabia on an eVisa?
No. The Saudi Arabia eVisa does not allow work.
It’s only for tourism, family visits, events, or Umrah. Any paid work requires a different type of permission.
Do UK Citizens Need a Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia?
A transit visa may be required if:
- You plan to leave the airport during a layover
- Your stopover is longer than allowed
If you stay within the airport transit area, a separate visa may not be necessary.
Is Saudi Arabia Safe for UK Tourists?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists. Visitor areas are well managed, transport is reliable, and tourism services are improving every year.
As with any destination, respecting local customs and laws helps ensure a comfortable experience.
How Much Cash Should You Carry and What Currency Is Used?
- The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR)
- Currency exchange services are easy to find
- Carry small amounts of cash for convenience
Most places accept cards, especially in cities.
Can UK Tourists Use Cards and Find ATMs Easily?
Yes. Cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find in:
- Airports
- Shopping centres
- City centres
International cards usually work without problems.
How Do UK Travellers Get a SIM Card or eSIM in Saudi Arabia?
Staying connected is simple:
- Buy a SIM card at the airport or local mobile shops
- Use an eSIM if you prefer instant activation
- Internet coverage is strong in cities and tourist areas
What Are the Benefits of Applying Through saudi-arabia-evisas.com?
Applying through saudi-arabia-evisas.com can make the process feel much easier, especially if you’re applying for the first time:
- Applications are checked for errors
- Help is available if documents need correction
- Access to faster processing options
- Clear guidance on fees and refunds
- Support available whenever you need it
Many travellers find this extra support reassuring and time-saving.
Why is the Saudi Arabia eVisa a Good Choice for UK Citizens?
The Saudi Arabia eVisa removes much of the stress from travel planning. It’s flexible, easy to apply for, and suitable for most short-term visits.
If you prepare properly and apply carefully, the process is smooth—and you can focus on enjoying your trip.
FAQs
How long is the Saudi Arabia eVisa valid for UK citizens?
It’s valid for one year and allows multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days.
Can UK travellers extend their stay on an eVisa?
Extensions are usually not allowed, so plan your trip within the permitted stay.
What happens if an application is rejected?
If rejection is due to incorrect or misleading information, the fee is non-refundable.
Can I apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa at the last minute?
Yes. With super rush processing, approval can sometimes be received within one hour, depending on accuracy.
