Stephen Okolie

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant development to regional travel with the introduction of a 12-month, multiple-entry e-visa for expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The new visa simplifies cross-border movement, strengthens social and economic connections, and supports the Kingdom’s broader tourism and investment goals under Vision 2030.

Key Features of the New Saudi Arabia E-Visa

The one-year multiple-entry e-Visa allows GCC residents to enter Saudi Arabia as often as needed within the visa’s validity period, with stays of up to 90 days per trip. Fully accessible online, the visa removes previous administrative hurdles and enables residents to travel easily for tourism, business, family visits, and Umrah outside the Hajj season. 

The visa does not permit employment, long-term study, or overstaying beyond approved limits. Travellers are responsible for monitoring both their visa validity and the number of days spent in the Kingdom to avoid penalties or immigration sanctions. 

Applications are submitted exclusively through the unified online visa portal, ensuring a smooth, seamless, and fully digital process.  

Eligibility and Requirements

The e-visa is available to expatriate residents of GCC countries who meet the following criteria:

• A valid GCC residency permit with at least three months’ validity remaining
  
• A passport valid for a minimum of six months
  

Applicants must upload a passport copy, a valid residency permit, and a recent photograph. Mandatory medical insurance is selected and paid for during the application process.

Immediate family members under the same residency sponsorship are eligible to apply, as are domestic workers sponsored by the primary applicant.

Cost and Processing of Saudi Arabia Multiple-entry E-Visa

• Visa fee: Approximately US$81 (around AED 297)
  
• Application fee: Approximately US$10.50 (around AED 38.50)
  
• Medical insurance: Varies significantly, ranging from about US$7.50 to US$252 depending on coverage and provider
  

Many applications from GCC residents are approved almost instantly, although processing may take up to three working days in some cases. Applicants can track their visa status through the same portal using their transaction or passport number.

This new e-visa policy significantly improves access to Saudi Arabia for GCC residents, removing profession-based restrictions and extending eligibility to families and sponsored domestic workers. By reducing travel barriers and encouraging mobility, the initiative aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to boost tourism and regional integration.

As the Gulf continues to expand travel opportunities through initiatives like this, Afari Travels & Tours remains a trusted partner for seamless journey planning. From personalized Umrah packages and business travel arrangements to leisure itineraries across Saudi Arabia, our team ensures travellers are well-informed, fully prepared, and supported at every stage of their journey, making each visit smooth, meaningful, and rewarding.