Saudi Arabia Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders

UK passport holders must obtain an eVisa to visit Saudi Arabia. The tourist eVisa costs approximately $120 and allows a stay of up to 90 days.

eVisa
90 days max stay
$120 visa cost
Riyadh
Asia
SAR (SR)
Arabic
UTC+3

United Kingdom passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Apply through the official Saudi Arabia eVisa portal at visa.visitsaudi.com. The fee is approximately $120 USD, which includes mandatory travel insurance. Processing is usually instant or within 24 hours. Save or print the eVisa to present on arrival.

Entry Requirements

Passport Validity

6 months beyond date of entry

Blank Pages

2 blank pages required

Multiple Entry

Single entry only

Work Permitted

No - requires work visa

Current Travel Situation

United Kingdom to Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia launched its tourist eVisa in 2019, opening the country to leisure travellers for the first time. British citizens can apply online for a multiple-entry tourist visa valid for one year with stays of up to 90 days per visit.

Practical Tips

Saudi Arabia is a conservative Islamic country. Dress modestly in public; women are required to dress respectfully though the abaya is no longer legally mandatory for foreign women. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Non-Muslim visitors are not permitted to enter Mecca or Medina. Ramadan schedules affect opening hours and food availability during the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do UK citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes. British citizens must obtain a tourist eVisa before visiting Saudi Arabia. Apply at visa.visitsaudi.com. The fee is approximately $120 USD and includes mandatory travel insurance. The eVisa is valid for one year with multiple entries of up to 90 days per visit.

What are the rules about dress for women in Saudi Arabia?

Foreign women are expected to dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees. The legal requirement for women to wear an abaya (full-length robe) has been relaxed for foreign tourists, but conservative dress is strongly advised. In more traditional areas and religious sites, more conservative attire is expected.

Can you drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?

No. Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout Saudi Arabia. Importing, selling, or consuming alcohol is illegal and can result in severe penalties including deportation. Non-alcoholic beverages are widely available.

Can non-Muslims visit religious sites in Saudi Arabia?

Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Mecca or Medina, the two holiest cities in Islam. Other historical and cultural sites across the country are open to tourists of all faiths, including the UNESCO-listed Hegra (Al-Hijr) and the historic Al-Ula region.