Emirati citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia do not require a visa, as the United Arab Emirates is a part of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Emiratis have freedom of movement in Saudi Arabia and can stay there for up to 90 days. Their passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
The visa exemption for Emiratis applies specifically to tourism and short visits, but work or long-term stays require a proper Saudi Arabia visa.
NOTE: Citizens of the UAE may travel to Saudi Arabia without a visa, but Emirati residents are required to have one.
UAE residents should refer to official resources such as the visa.visitsaudi.com for accurate guidance on specific applications.
Entry Requirements to Saudi Arabia for Emirati Citizens
UAE passport holders are eligible for short-term stays in Saudi Arabia without a visa.
This visa exemption applies to Emirati citizens who are traveling for purposes such as tourism.
However, UAE residents who do not hold GCC citizenship must obtain the appropriate visa before entry to Saudi Arabia.
A valid UAE passport is the primary requirement to visit Saudi Arabia as an Emirati. The passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity from the entry date.
What is more, medical insurance covering COVID-19-related hospitalization is mandatory for all visitors entering Saudi Arabia.
While no negative PCR tests or vaccination certificates are currently required, it is vital to comply with updated health protocols as they may vary over time.
NOTE: For Emiratis planning longer stays or visiting Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism, a visa is a must.
What Are the Saudi Arabia Visa Types
The Saudi Arabia offers various visa types to suit different travel needs:
- Electronic Visa (eVisa): GCC residents, including Emirati residents, can apply for an eVisa online. It is ideal for tourism and can be obtained quickly by completing an application on the official ksavisa.sa portal.
- Transit Visa: The Transit Visa allows travelers to pass through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination. It’s perfect for those with layovers who wish to explore the country briefly.
- Visa on Arrival: Although not applicable to UAE citizens, some nationalities are eligible for a visa upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. This option requires specific documentation.
- Embassy Visa: For certain travel purposes, such as work, study, or extended stays, a visa must be applied for through the Saudi Embassy. This visa often requires more documentation, including invitations or sponsorships from within Saudi Arabia.
Each Saudi visa type caters to specific travel needs. Don’t forget to check eligibility and requirements before planning your trip.
Types of Embassy Visas to Saudi Arabia
For Emiratis who plan to visit Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism and for a duration longer than 90 days, a traditional visa is required (it must be obtained at the embassy).
Diplomatic Visa
The Diplomatic Visa is designed for government staff, diplomatic missions, and international organizations. It allows entry for individuals serving in official capacities.
Holders of diplomatic visas have privileges suited to their roles, promoting smooth cross-border collaboration.
Tourist Visa
A Tourist Visa is ideal for those who plan to explore Saudi Arabia.
While UAE citizens are exempt from requiring a Tourist Visa for short-term stays, non-UAE national residents must apply if eligible.
Typically valid for a limited period, this Saudi visa is designed for tourism-related purposes, such as leisure, sightseeing, etc.
Business Visa
The Business Visa facilitates professional activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or establishing business partnerships.
Applicants must demonstrate a legitimate business purpose and provide company-related documentation.
Business Visa strengthens work-related relationships by enabling effortless cross-border connections.
Work Visa
The Work Visa allows professionals to work temporarily or permanently in Saudi Arabia.
It requires sponsorship from a Saudi-based employer. The documentation includes contracts and health checks, ensuring compliance with labor regulations for a smooth transition.
Residency Visa
The Residency Visa is available in standard and premium forms or for special cases.
Premium residency offers long-term benefits, while standard residency is tailored for expatriates and their families.
Family Visit Visa
The Family Visit Visa allows non-Saudi residents to bring immediate family members for visits.
Applicants must prove family ties and sponsor credentials and attach the required documents to the visa application.
Extend Return Visa
The Extend Return Visa serves individuals who overstayed a permitted period due to unforeseen circumstances.
Extended Return Visa helps with a smooth and lawful re-entry into the system after successfully addressing and resolving any delays or complications.
Escort Visa
Typically issued to companions of diplomatic staff or long-term residents, the Escort Visa is designed to provide entry permissions for family members or dependents accompanying the primary visa holder.
This type of Saudi visa enables staying with loved ones while supporting the visa holder during their time abroad, whether for work, official duties, or extended residence in a foreign country.
Student Visa
International students admitted to Saudi academic institutions will require a Student Visa.
Valid admission letters, proof of financial support, and accommodation plans are necessary for application approval.
Hajj Visa
Foreign Muslim pilgrims can apply for a Hajj Visa to participate in the annual pilgrimage in Mecca.
It allows pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia and fulfill this essential spiritual obligation alongside millions of others from around the world, uniting in faith and devotion.
Umrah Visa
The Umrah Visa allows Muslims to perform the spiritual pilgrimage of Umrah, which can be undertaken at any time of the year outside the Hajj season.
This Umrah visa is typically issued for a short duration, enabling pilgrims to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for religious rituals.
How to Apply for a Saudi Visa at the Embassy
Applying for a Saudi visa through the embassy as an Emirati citizen involves a detailed process.
It’s important to make sure all details are accurate to avoid delays or complications in the approval procedures.
- Prepare the Required Documents. Start by gathering essential documents, including a valid passport (minimum validity of 6 months), a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of residency in the UAE. Make sure all documents meet the Saudi Embassy’s specifications.
- Fill Out the Application Form. Visit the Saudi Embassy’s official website or contact the nearest embassy to obtain the visa application form. Accurately complete the form with your personal and travel details.
- Book an Appointment and Submit the Application. Schedule an appointment at the Saudi Embassy or an authorized visa processing center. Bring all required documents and the completed application form for submission.
- Pay the Visa Fee and Await Approval. Pay the visa fees as specified by the Saudi authorities. After submission, your application will be reviewed. Processing times may vary, so plan your travel dates accordingly.
NOTE: The Saudi visa application process and requirements may vary and are subject to change.
Saudi Arabia Embassy in the United Arab Emirates
The Saudi Arabia Embassy in the United Arab Emirates serves as a vital link between the two nations, facilitating diplomatic relations and assisting Emirati citizens and residents with their visa requirements and consular services.
The embassy provides support for Saudi visa queries, including Tourist, Business, and Umrah Visas.
Contact information for the Saudi Arabia Embassy in the UAE:
- Address: Al Rawdah, Al Ma’arid, Abu Dhabi, The United Arab Emirates
- Telephone: 0097124445700
- Email: aeemb@mofa.gov.sa
- Working Hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m
The embassy is a key resource for resolving any challenges faced during the visa application process and ensures effective assistance tailored to individual needs.
FAQs About Saudi Arabia Visas for Emirati Citizens
- Do UAE citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia?
No, UAE citizens are exempt from obtaining a visa for short-term stays in Saudi Arabia.
- Do UAE residents who are not GCC citizens must have a Saudi visa?
UAE residents without GCC citizenship must apply for a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
- Can UAE residents apply for a Saudi eVisa?
Yes, UAE residents with valid residency permits can apply for a Saudi eVisa through the official portal.
- What are the requirements for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
You need a valid passport (minimum 6-month validity), a recent passport-style photo, a valid UAE residency permit, and a debit or credit card for the application fee.
- Is medical insurance mandatory to enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, medical insurance is mandatory and is automatically included in the Saudi eVisa fee.
- Are vaccination or PCR test certificates required for entry to Saudi Arabia?
Currently, travelers are not required to provide negative PCR tests or vaccination certificates to enter Saudi Arabia.
- Can UAE citizens apply for a Visa on Arrival?
No, a visa on arrival is not applicable for UAE citizens, as they do not need a visa for short stays.
- What do I need for an Umrah Visa during the Hajj season?
Special regulations may apply for Umrah Visas during the Hajj season, so make sure to check them in advance.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia offers flexible and straightforward visa options for Emirati citizens.
While UAE citizens benefit from a visa exemption for short-term stays up to 90 days, UAE residents holding valid residency permits must obtain an eVisa or other visa type to visit the Kingdom.
For UAE citizens planning longer trips or special visits during the Hajj season, additional regulations may apply, particularly for Umrah, so it’s important to check all the information on the official websites, such as the Visit Saudi website.
Emirati citizens have various traditional visa types available, such as Student Visas or Work Visas, when planning their visit to Saudi Arabia.
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Hello, I’m Sara Ali, and I have dedicated my career to navigating the intricacies of immigration and visa processes. With over a decade of experience in the field, I have assisted countless travelers in achieving their travel and relocation goals. My expertise lies in simplifying complex procedures and ensuring seamless visa applications for clients from diverse backgrounds. Passionate about facilitating international travel, I continually stay updated with the latest immigration policies to provide reliable guidance and support.