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Your Gateway to the Kingdom: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Saudi Visa from Dubai (2025 Edition)

June 18, 2025

Dreaming of exploring the ancient wonders of AlUla, experiencing the vibrant energy of Riyadh, or embarking on a spiritual journey to perform Umrah? For many residing in Dubai, Saudi Arabia is a captivating neighbor, and thankfully, getting a visa to enter the Kingdom has become significantly more streamlined in 2025.

No more navigating confusing paperwork or endlessly waiting in queues! This guide is your friendly, humanized AI companion to walk you through the process, ensuring your Saudi adventure starts off on the right foot.

First Things First: Are You Eligible for an eVisa?

Good news for most UAE residents! Saudi Arabia has greatly simplified its visa process, especially for those holding a valid UAE residency. In 2025, a large number of nationalities residing in the GCC (including the UAE) can apply for a one-year, multiple-entry eVisa, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit. This covers tourism, leisure, family visits, and even Umrah (though not Hajj)

Key Eligibility Check for eVisa (GCC Residents):

Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your intended entry date into Saudi Arabia.
Valid UAE Residency Visa: Your UAE residency permit should have at least three months of validity remaining.
Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply independently. Minors need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Nationality: While GCC residents generally qualify, it's always wise to double-check if your specific nationality is among the eligible countries for the eVisa. The official Visit Saudi website (visa.visitsaudi.com) is your best friend here.

The eVisa Journey: Your Simple 3-Step Process

The Saudi eVisa application is designed to be quick and user-friendly. Here’s how it generally works:

Step 1: Head to the Official eVisa Portal

Navigate to the official Saudi eVisa platform. A common portal is ksavisa.sa or visa.visitsaudi.com. Be sure to use the official government websites to avoid scams.
On the homepage, look for a "Visit" or "Apply for a Visa" section.
Select "Tourism" as your purpose of visit.
Input your nationality.
Crucially, select "Valid residence in the GCC countries (No less than three months)" from the dropdown. This will filter for your specific eligibility.
Click "Show Eligible Visas" and choose the "Electronic Visa (eVisa)" option, then "Apply Now."

Step 2: Fill Out Your Details & Upload Documents

This is where you provide your personal and travel information. Take your time and ensure everything is accurate and matches your official documents.

Personal Information: Your full name (exactly as on your passport), mobile number, UAE residential address, gender, and marital status. You can also mention your occupation, though it's often optional.
Travel Details: Expected date of arrival, country of residence (UAE), and the nearest Saudi embassy (Abu Dhabi or Dubai are common choices for UAE residents). You can also provide optional details like transport mode and port of entry.
Passport Details: Upload a clear scan of your passport's main ID page. Enter your passport number, type, country of issuance, place of birth, and issue/expiry dates. Ensure your passport has at least two blank visa pages.
UAE Residency Visa Details: Upload a copy of your UAE residency visa (a digital copy is usually fine). Enter your UAE visa number, expiry date, emirate of residence, and full residential address.
Passport-Sized Photograph: This is a crucial step! Your photo must meet specific requirements:
Recent color photo, taken within the last six months.
Against a plain white background.
Dimensions: 35x45mm (or 2x2 inches).
Natural facial expression, no smiling, mouth closed.
Face the camera directly, head straight, eyes open.
No eyeglasses (unless absolutely medically necessary, with a doctor's note).
No headwear, except for religious reasons.
Proper lighting, avoiding shadows.
Format: PNG or JPEG, maximum file size typically 5MB.

Step 3: Medical Insurance & Payment

Medical Insurance: As of 2025, purchasing medical insurance is mandatory and is integrated into the eVisa application process. You'll be asked a few health-related questions and then presented with a list of approved Saudi medical insurance providers. Select one, and the cost will be added to your total visa fee.
Review and Pay: Carefully review all the information you've entered. Once satisfied, agree to the terms and conditions and proceed to payment. The eVisa fee is typically around SAR 535 (approximately AED 525), which includes the mandatory travel insurance. Payments are usually made securely via credit or debit card.

What Happens Next?

Processing Time: For GCC residents, the eVisa is often issued instantly! However, it can sometimes take up to 3 working days.
Receive Your eVisa: Once approved, your eVisa will be sent directly to your registered email address.
Print and Save: Print a physical copy of your eVisa and keep a digital copy saved on your phone. You'll need to present this to immigration authorities upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Double-check that all information on the eVisa matches your passport details.

Important Tips for a Smooth Journey:

Apply in Advance: While eVisa processing is fast, it's always a good idea to apply a week or two before your intended travel date, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons like public holidays or major events.
Accuracy is Key: Any discrepancies between your application details and your passport/UAE residency can cause delays or even rejection. Double-check everything!
Umrah during Hajj: Remember, the tourist eVisa is valid for Umrah, but not for Hajj. Hajj visas have a separate and specific application process and restricted timings.
Modesty & Local Customs: Saudi Arabia has a rich culture and strong traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local customs, especially outside of major tourist hubs.
Stay Updated: Visa regulations can change. Before your trip, quickly check the official Visit Saudi website or the Saudi Embassy in the UAE website for any last-minute updates.

In conclusion, as Saudi Arabia continues its rapid economic expansion under Vision 2030, the Kingdom offers diverse opportunities for Dubai residents. While the streamlined eVisa simplifies tourist and Umrah visits, those aiming for commercial engagement will require a specific Saudi Business Visa from Dubai. This process generally involves an official invitation from a Saudi entity and application through the Saudi Embassy or VFS Tasheel. Understanding these distinct pathways and staying updated with the latest official regulations is crucial, ensuring a smooth and successful entry for all purposes, whether it’s exploring historical sites, performing sacred rituals, or capitalizing on the Kingdom’s thriving business environment.

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