Saudi Arabia Entry Ports for Air and Cruise Passengers

Planning a trip to the Kingdom involves more than just getting a visa; you need to know exactly where to land. With a country the size of Western Europe, choosing the wrong arrival airport can mean a 10-hour drive to your final destination.

Fortunately, Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure has exploded in recent years. Under Vision 2030, new international airports and state-of-the-art cruise terminals have opened up, allowing eVisa holders to enter the country from virtually any direction.

In this guide, we list all the approved entry points for 2025, including the main gateways for Umrah pilgrims, the new luxury hubs on the Red Sea, and the specific rules for cruise passengers docking in Jeddah or Dammam.

Major International Airports (The Big 4)

While Saudi Arabia has over a dozen international airports, 90% of long-haul international flights arrive at these four major hubs. Choosing the right one depends entirely on your itinerary.

1. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah

• The Hub: The busiest airport in the Kingdom and the primary gateway to the Red Sea coast.

• Best For: Umrah Pilgrims (it is the closest airport to Mecca) and tourists visiting Al-Balad or the coastal resorts.

• Key Feature: It features the dedicated "Hajj Terminal," an architectural marvel designed specifically to handle millions of pilgrims.

2. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh

• The Hub: Located in the capital city, this is the center of business and politics.

• Best For: Business travelers, visitors attending "Riyadh Season" events, and those heading to the historical UNESCO site of Diriyah.

• Connectivity: It offers the highest number of connections to Europe, Asia, and North America.

3. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina

• The Hub: A critical airport for religious tourism.

• Best For: Pilgrims who wish to visit the Prophet’s Mosque before proceeding to Mecca.

• Note: Entering here allows you to take the Haramain High-Speed Railway directly to Mecca later in your trip.

4. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam

• The Hub: The gateway to the Eastern Province and the oil industry.

• Best For: Travelers visiting Bahrain (via the causeway), business in the energy sector, or exploring the Al-Ahsa Oasis.

The New & Regional Airports (Tourism Hubs)

As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is opening "Boutique International Airports" closer to key tourist sites.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI)

• Status: New for 2024/2025.

• Best For: Exclusive entry for guests staying at The Red Sea Project resorts (e.g., St. Regis, Ritz Carlton Reserve).

• Flights: Currently accepts domestic flights from Riyadh/Jeddah and limited international connections (e.g., from Dubai).[1][3]

AlUla International Airport (ULH)

• Status: expanded to accept international traffic.

• Best For: Tourists visiting the ancient Nabataean tombs of Hegra.

• Flights: Direct seasonal flights are now available from hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Paris, allowing you to bypass Riyadh/Jeddah entirely.

Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport (TUU) – Tabuk

• Status: The northern gateway.

• Best For: Travelers heading to the NEOM region or exploring the northern deserts.

Seaports: Entering by Cruise Ship

Cruise tourism is booming in the Red Sea. If you are entering by sea, you must hold a valid visa (either the standard eVisa or a specific "Maritime Transit Visa" depending on your stay).

1. Jeddah Islamic Port

• Location: The middle of the Red Sea coast.

• The Experience: The primary terminal for major cruise lines (MSC, Silversea). It offers easy access to the UNESCO Heritage site of Al-Balad.

2. King Abdulaziz Port (Dammam)

• Location: The Arabian Gulf (East Coast).

• The Experience: A common stop for Gulf cruises departing from Dubai or Doha.

3. Yanbu Commercial Port

• Location: North of Jeddah.

• The Experience: Known as the "Diving Capital of Saudi Arabia." It is a popular stop for snorkeling excursions and trips to ancient markets.

Entry Rules for Umrah Pilgrims

There is a common myth that Umrah pilgrims must enter via Jeddah or Medina.

• The Old Rule: Pilgrims on specific "Umrah Visas" were restricted to Jeddah (JED) and Medina (MED).

• The New Rule (2025): If you are traveling on a Tourist eVisa, you have Freedom of Movement. You can enter the Kingdom through ANY international airport (even Riyadh or Dammam) and travel to Mecca by train, domestic flight, or bus.

• Tip: While you can enter via Riyadh, it is a 10-hour drive or 2-hour flight to Mecca. Jeddah remains the most convenient option.

Arrival Procedures: What to Expect

When you land at any of these ports, the process is standardized:

1. Biometrics: Immigration officers will take a digital photo and fingerprints of all passengers (even those who applied online).

2. Customs Checks: All bags are X-rayed. Ensure you have zero alcohol, pork products, or narcotics. Possession of these items is a serious crime.

3. Connectivity: After clearing customs, you will find kiosks for STC, Mobily, and Zain. It is highly recommended to buy a local SIM card at the airport for easy navigation.

FAQ's

Q: Can I enter via Riyadh and exit via Jeddah?

A: Yes. "Open Jaw" travel is fully permitted. You do not need to depart from the same airport you arrived at.

Q: Is the eVisa valid at land borders?

A: Yes. If you are driving in from UAE, Bahrain, or Jordan, your eVisa is valid at land border crossings (like the King Fahd Causeway).

Q: Do cruise passengers need a visa if they sleep on the ship?

A: Yes. Even if you sleep on the ship, if you disembark to tour the port city, you legally enter Saudi Arabia and require a visa.