Saudi Arabia has substantially expanded its visa system since 2019. Travellers visiting NEOM can now use a variety of visa types depending on their nationality, the purpose of the visit, and length of stay. This guide covers the principal options.
The Saudi e-visa
The Saudi e-visa is the most common entry pathway for tourist visits to NEOM. Citizens of more than 60 countries are eligible to apply for a tourist e-visa online before travel.
- Format: a multiple-entry visa valid for up to one year, with stays of up to 90 days at a time.
- Application: through the official Saudi visa portal, with a digital application form and a small fee.
- Processing time: typically a few minutes for approval, though it can take longer in some cases.
- Eligibility: residents of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, China, and many other countries.
The e-visa allows entry through any Saudi international airport, including NEOM Bay Airport.
Visa on arrival
Citizens of the e-visa eligible countries can also obtain a visa on arrival at Saudi international airports for tourism purposes. The visa-on-arrival option is convenient but applicants are encouraged to apply for the e-visa in advance to avoid delays.
GCC resident exemption
Residents of other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar) can enter Saudi Arabia under specific arrangements. The exact rules depend on the resident’s profession and visa class in their country of residence.
GCC citizen entry
Citizens of GCC member states do not require a tourist visa to enter Saudi Arabia. They can travel with their national ID card or passport, depending on the mode of arrival.
Business and work visas
Travellers visiting NEOM for business meetings, conferences, or short-term work assignments can use one of several business visa types:
- Business e-visa for short visits to engage in meetings, exhibitions, and selected commercial activities.
- Single-entry business visa for specific contracts or invitations.
- Work visa for those starting employment in Saudi Arabia, typically arranged through the employer.
Each type has its own application process, supporting documentation requirements, and validity period.
Umrah and Hajj
Saudi Arabia also issues specific visas for the Islamic pilgrimages of Umrah and Hajj. These visas are for the religious purpose and have their own rules around timing, accommodation, and routing. The Umrah visa now permits some tourism during the trip, opening up the possibility of combining a pilgrimage with a visit to NEOM.
Family and visit visas
Saudi residents and citizens can sponsor family and visit visas for relatives travelling to the kingdom. Application and approval are through the Saudi General Directorate of Passports.
What to bring at the border
When entering Saudi Arabia, travellers should expect to present:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Visa documentation (the e-visa is electronic and may be requested for inspection).
- Return flight or onward travel evidence in some cases.
- Proof of accommodation in some cases.
- Health insurance for tourist visa holders, which is provided automatically as part of the e-visa.
Health and entry requirements
Travellers may be asked to provide:
- Vaccination certificates for specific diseases, depending on the country of origin.
- Health insurance that covers the trip.
The exact requirements can change. Travellers should check the latest health entry requirements before booking.
Dress and conduct
Saudi Arabia retains certain expectations around dress and conduct in public spaces. Modest clothing remains the norm. Within resort and hospitality settings, international standards apply.
Practical tips
- Apply for the e-visa in advance for the smoothest experience.
- Check the latest rules through the official Saudi visa portal close to travel.
- Carry both digital and paper copies of important documents.
- Use a recognised travel agent if you have a complex itinerary or multiple destinations.
Related reading
For travel planning, see the NEOM tourism guide. For getting to NEOM, see getting to NEOM. For when to go, see the NEOM weather and climate guide.
Sources
This article draws on Saudi government visa publications, the official e-visa portal, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and reporting from Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, Reuters, and trade press in travel. Visa rules change. Always confirm with the official Saudi visa portal before travel.