The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Saudi Arabia e-Visa for UK Citizens: Everything You Need to Know

For decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was a mysterious destination, largely inaccessible to the general tourist. However, under the ambitious Vision 2030 program, the Kingdom has undergone a cultural and digital revolution. For British citizens, entering Saudi Arabia is now more accessible than ever.

Whether you are heading to the bustling streets of Riyadh, the coastal charm of Jeddah, the ancient wonders of AlUla, or traveling for the spiritual journey of Umrah, this guide provides the most up-to-date information for 2026.

Why Saudi Arabia is a Top Destination for Brits in 2026

The UK remains one of the top priority markets for Saudi tourism. Because of the strong diplomatic and economic ties, UK citizens are listed among the visa-eligible countries that benefit from a streamlined, 100% paperless application process. No more long queues at the embassy in London—everything is now handled via a high-speed digital portal.

Understanding Your Options: e-Visa vs. Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

As a UK passport holder, you have two primary digital entry paths. Choosing the wrong one could cost you more money or limit your travel flexibility.

1. The Multiple-Entry Tourist e-Visa

• Best for: Frequent travelers, tourists exploring multiple cities, and those performing Umrah.

• Validity: 1 year from the date of issuance.

• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per visit.

• Entries: Multiple.

• Key Feature: Includes mandatory COVID-19/Emergency medical insurance.

2. The Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

• Best for: Short business trips or one-off weekend getaways.

• Validity: Single entry for a stay of up to 6 months.

• Cost: Significantly lower than the full e-Visa.

• Limitation: If you leave the country, the permit expires instantly.

To stay updated on which option currently offers the fastest processing, check the latest Saudi Arabia visa news.

Document Requirements for British Citizens

To ensure your application is approved on the first attempt, you must have your Saudi Arabia visa documents organized. While the process is digital, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has strict standards:

1. Passport Validity: Your UK passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended entry date.

   • Note: Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are generally not accepted for e-Visa applications.

2. Digital Photograph: A high-resolution, color photo with a plain white background. Ensure your face is clearly visible without heavy shadows or glare on glasses.

3. Proof of Accommodation: While not always mandatory to upload, you will be asked for the address of your first hotel or host in the Kingdom.

4. Valid Email: This is where your PDF visa is sent. We recommend using a personal email rather than a corporate one to avoid "spam" filters.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Your Saudi Visa from the UK

The application is designed to be user-friendly, but precision is key. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Start the Online Form

Head to the visa application page to begin. You will need to create a basic account to save your progress.

Step 2: Upload and Data Entry

Carefully transcribe your passport number, place of birth, and expiry date.

Step 3: Medical Insurance Selection

The system will automatically assign an insurance provider (such as Tawuniya or Bupa Arabia). This is bundled into the Saudi Arabia visa fee and covers emergency hospital visits within the Kingdom.

Step 4: Secure Payment

Pay the total fee using a UK debit or credit card. Most applications are processed within 24 hours, though some can take up to 3 business days.

Step 5: Status Tracking

After submission, you can check your visa status in real-time. Once the status shows "Issued," download the PDF and print a copy.

A Breakdown of Fees (2026 Update)

The Saudi Arabia visa fee for UK citizens is divided into three components:

1. Government Fee: The cost of processing the visa.

2. Insurance Fee: Mandatory coverage for all tourists.

3. Service Fee: For the digital platform and 24/7 support.

On average, a full multiple-entry Tourist e-Visa will cost approximately £110 to £130, depending on the exchange rate and the insurance provider assigned to you.

Performing Umrah: Advice for UK Muslims

One of the most significant benefits for British citizens is the ability to perform Umrah on a Tourist e-Visa.

• You do not need a specific Umrah visa unless you are traveling during the Hajj season.

• The e-Visa gives you the freedom to visit other cities like Taif or Abha after your pilgrimage, which the old Umrah visas did not allow.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Entry

• Currency: While Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly cashless, keep some Saudi Riyals (SAR) for small souqs.

• Connectivity: You can buy a local SIM (STC or Zain) at the airport, or use an eSIM.

• Dress Code: While the "Abaya" is no longer mandatory for female tourists, modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is required in public spaces.

• Respect Local Laws: Photography of government buildings is prohibited, and public displays of affection should be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I work in Saudi Arabia on an e-Visa?

No. The e-Visa is strictly for tourism, Umrah, or attending events/conferences. For employment, you must apply for a traditional Work Visa via the Saudi Embassy in London.

2. How long can I stay in the Kingdom?

On the multiple-entry e-Visa, you can stay for up to 90 days per visit. However, you cannot exceed a total of 180 days within a single year.

3. What if I make a mistake on my application?

If the visa has already been issued, it cannot be edited. You would need to apply for a new Saudi visa with the correct information.

4. Is the e-Visa guaranteed upon application?

While the approval rate for UK citizens is over 98%, the Saudi authorities reserve the right to refuse entry. Ensure your visa documents are perfectly in order to avoid issues.

Final Thoughts

The Saudi e-Visa has transformed travel for UK citizens, making one of the world's most fascinating cultures accessible with just a few clicks. By understanding the difference between the e-Visa and the EVW, and ensuring your documentation is correct, you can enjoy a stress-free start to your Arabian adventure.

Ready to start? Click here to begin your Saudi e-Visa application and explore the wonders of the Kingdom.