Are you prepared to go on an unforgettable journey to Saudi Arabia? A guide filled with information by your side will help you to be prepared.
Deciding where to go in such a big country, is not so easy. That is why we have mentioned them all.
From dressing modestly to exploring transportation and the correct time to apply for a tourist visa in Saudi Arabia, you will get everything you need in this blog.
Tips and Advice for Your Upcoming Saudi Arabia Tour
From the rich cultural heritage to the stunning landscape, witness every mesmerizing beauty of this country with our informative guide:
eVisa and Entry Requirements
Saudi Arabia offers the tourist eVisa to citizens from eligible 49 countries. The process of your visa application will vary. Some factors like the country you are applying from and the nationality you have will impact the processing time.
The tourist eVisa allows for multiple entries within a 1 year. You can stay there for up to 90 days with each entry you make.
But keep in mind if your stay exceeds your visa permit then you will be deported and fined.
Required Documents
You will need to furnish some documents while applying for a Saudi visa online.
| Documents | Requirements |
| Valid Passport | Should be valid for at least 6 months, with two blank pages for eVisa stamps. |
| eVisa Application Form | Complete the form online with proper and correct details |
| Photographs | Two recent passport-size photos with a white background. Stick to the specific size and format |
| Accommodation Proof | Hotel booking confirmation, any invitation letter from a host there |
| Travel Itinerary | Flight bookings, internal travel details, planned activities |
| Financial Proof | Proof your daily budget of at least $50 |
| Travel Purpose | Clearly state the purpose of your travel |
| Religious Purpose | For religious purposes like Umrah, you will need to show documents. This eVisa is not valid for Hajj. |
Application Process of Saudi eVisa
This is a 3-step process:
Step 1: Online Application
You will need to put accurate personal information and other requested information on the eVisa application form for your Saudi tourist visa.
After completing the application, you will receive a reference number at your email address.
Step 2: Pay the Saudi eVisa Fees
Next, you will need to enter the application number to access the payment getaway. After that pay the e-Visa fees through your debit and credit card.
Step 3: Receive Your Approved eVisa
Your application will go through the process after you pay the fees. Your Saudi eVisa will be sent directly to your e-mail ID if approved. You can download and print your e-Visa copy from there.
This is for your travel records and carry it with you when you are traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Best Season to Visit
Characterized by hot summers and mild winters, Saudi Arabia has a desert climate:
| Season | Temperature |
| Winter (November to February) | The temperature in this season ranges from 20°C to 30°C considered ideal for doing sightseeing |
| Spring (March to May) | The weather is warm at this time of the year with occasional sandstorms |
| Summer (June to August) | Often exceeding 45°C, this season is not recommended to visit Saudi |
| Autumn (September to October) | The temperature in this season starts to cool down |
We recommend visiting Saudi Arabia between November and March when the weather is pleasant.
Top Destinations to Visit in Saudi Arabia
From monumental dessert tombs to epic canyons and old towns, there are places you will need to put on your Saudi Arabia bucket list:
- Riyadh
The world’s largest living museum, this ancient place promises to take you back to bygone centuries.
You will witness evocative ruins and archaeological treasures as this is the place for all these. You can walk amongst the dramatic rock formations, sweeping and dunes.
- Diriyah
This place is known as ‘the jewel of the Kingdom’. You will find this place just 20km northwest of Riyadh.
You can immerse yourself among the archaic ruins with a scenic stroll.
- Makkah
A visit to Makkah is the ultimate pilgrimage for the followers of the Muslim faith. Mentioned in Islam, Makkah appeals as a legendary and holiest city. At this location, the Quran was first revealed to him.
To embark on the annual Hajj or Umrah, this place has attracted pilgrims for centuries.
- Medina
Another important city in Saudi Arabia, Medina sacred site that draws visitors from around the world. This place is known for Al Masjid and Nabawi.
The Quba mosque offers a serene experience, reflecting on the profound religious heritage of the region.
- Jeddah
Tourists can explore the vibrant Saudi’s famous places Corniche and Read Sea here in Jeddah.
The historic Al-Balad district is a UNESCO World Heritage site another highlight of your tour.
- Al Hofuf
Known also as Al Hufuf, one of the largest oil fields in the world, located in the Easter Province. The situated place is the largest oasis in the world with groves of palm trees. This is counted at over two million.
Getting Around Arabia
You must be thinking about how you can get around the city when you are planning for the trip!
This city has a continuously expanding transportation network. Different modes of transportation will be available. Though this will depend on the city you are travelling from and traveling to.
- Public Transport
The government there is constantly investing in the improvement of public transportation. Major cities enjoy wide and efficient bus networks. This service provides an affordable and convenient way to get around the city.
You do not even need to think about getting too hot on the bus, as they are equipped with AC.
Other than buses, the high-speed railway system connects key cities like Mecca, Madina, Jeddah, etc. This is great news for pilgrims.
- Taxis
You can always avail taxis available in Saudi. Many of them do not have a meter, so you will need to negotiate the fare before boarding.
You can also use cab apps like Uber and Careem. You will get upfront pricing and track your ride in real-time.
- Car Rental
If you do not want to travel through public transport, you can always opt for a car rental service. If you are planning to explore multiple cities in the country, renting a car can be a great option.
But if you are considering hiring a car and want to drive it on your own, you will need to have an International Driving Permit.
- Domestic Flights
Another easy way to explore each corner of Saudi Arabia is for domestic flights within the country. With the airlines, you can visit multiple destinations.
Whichever transportation you choose, it is important to plan ahead of the time of the cities.
Get Ready to Visit Saudi Arabia
Applying for a Saudi visa online is a straightforward process. But, you will need to be careful during your application process. The trick is to stay on top of your documentation.
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