Gateways to the Kingdom: Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry & Saudi Visa Exempt Countries

Saudi Arabia, a nation actively broadening its global appeal through Vision 2030, has significantly reformed its entry regulations to welcome tourists, business travelers, and pilgrims.1 Understanding the various Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry is crucial for a smooth arrival, as is knowing which nationalities belong to the exclusive list of Saudi Visa Exempt Countries. This guide aims to clarify these vital aspects of entry into the Kingdom.

Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry: Your Arrival Points

Saudi Arabia boasts a well-developed network of airports and ports of entry designed to accommodate millions of visitors annually. For international travelers, the primary entry points are typically major international airports and, to a lesser extent, certain land borders and seaports.

Major International Airports:

These are the most common and convenient points of entry for international travelers, offering comprehensive immigration and customs facilities, including services for Saudi Visa on Arrival and e-Visa holders.2

• King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), Jeddah:3 This is the busiest airport in the Kingdom and the primary gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims arriving in Makkah. Its modern facilities are well-equipped to handle high volumes of international traffic.4

• King Khalid International Airport (RUH), Riyadh: Located in the capital city, RUH is a major hub for business and tourism, serving a vast network of domestic and international flights.5

• Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED), Medina: This airport serves as a direct entry point for pilgrims heading to Medina.

• King Fahd International Airport (DMM), Dammam: Located in the Eastern Province, DMM is a key entry point for visitors to the oil-rich region and those traveling from neighboring GCC countries.6

Upon arrival at these airports, travelers will proceed through passport control, where their visa (e-Visa printout, physical visa sticker, or visa-on-arrival processing) will be verified.7 Customs checks are also conducted.

Land Border Crossings:

Several land borders facilitate entry, particularly for travelers from neighboring GCC countries.8 While some are equipped for Saudi Visa on Arrival for eligible nationalities, it's always advisable to confirm specific eligibility and requirements for land entry beforehand, as processes can sometimes differ from air travel.

• King Fahd Causeway (to Bahrain): A very popular entry point connecting Saudi Arabia with Bahrain.

• Al Batha Border (to UAE): A busy crossing connecting Saudi Arabia with the United Arab Emirates.

• Al Khafji and Salwa Borders (to Kuwait and Qatar respectively): Other key land crossings with GCC neighbors.

• Al Haditha Border (to Jordan):9 A significant northern land entry point.

Seaports:

While less common for individual tourist or business entries, Saudi Arabia has several seaports that handle commercial cargo and occasionally passenger ferries, particularly from other Red Sea nations.10

• Jeddah Islamic Port: One of the largest ports on the Red Sea, important for both cargo and pilgrim arrivals.11

• King Abdulaziz Port, Dammam: The largest and busiest seaport in the Eastern Province.

Important Note on Ports of Entry: While e-Visas and Visas on Arrival generally allow entry through any international airport, it's always prudent to confirm the specific port of entry for your visa type, especially if entering via land or sea, by checking the latest guidelines on the official Visit Saudi website or with the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Saudi Visa Exempt Countries: Who Can Enter Freely?

The most privileged group when it comes to entering Saudi Arabia are citizens of countries that are Saudi Visa Exempt Countries. These individuals do not need a visa to enter the Kingdom for short-term stays and can simply use their national ID card or passport.

As of 2025, the list of Saudi Visa Exempt Countries is primarily comprised of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states:

• Bahrain

• Kuwait

• Oman

• Qatar

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)12

Citizens of these countries enjoy freedom of movement within the GCC bloc, allowing them to enter Saudi Arabia with minimal formalities.13 They typically present their national ID or passport at any Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry and are granted entry for purposes such as tourism, business, and even Umrah.

Beyond Visa Exemption: The E-Visa and Visa on Arrival Landscape

While only GCC countries are truly Saudi Visa Exempt Countries, Saudi Arabia has significantly expanded its e-Visa and Visa on Arrival programs, making entry considerably easier for citizens of many other nations.14 These are not visa exemptions but rather streamlined visa acquisition processes.

Countries Eligible for e-Visa/Visa on Arrival (a non-exhaustive list, subject to change):

This extensive list includes most of the European Union member states, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, China (including Hong Kong and Macao), Singapore, Malaysia, and many others.

Key distinctions for these eligible nationalities:

• e-Visa (Pre-Arrival): This is highly recommended. Travelers can apply and receive their visa online before departure, minimizing processing time upon arrival.15 The e-Visa is typically a one-year, multiple-entry visa, allowing up to 90 days per visit.16 It covers tourism, visiting friends/family, and Umrah.

• Visa on Arrival: Citizens from these eligible countries can also obtain a visa upon arrival at designated Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry. While convenient, it might involve longer queues and potential delays compared to pre-approved e-Visas.

• US, UK, and Schengen Visa Holders/Residents: Individuals holding valid tourist or business visas (or permanent residency) from the US, UK, or a Schengen Area country may also be eligible for a Saudi Visa on Arrival, provided their visa has been used at least once and has an entry stamp from the issuing country.17

Important Considerations for all Travelers:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

• Required Documents: Always carry necessary documents such as confirmed accommodation bookings, onward/return flight tickets, and health insurance.18

• Hajj is Separate: It is critical to remember that Hajj requires a specialized Hajj visa and cannot be undertaken with an e-Visa, Visa on Arrival, or a tourist visa.19

• Stay Updated: Visa policies can change. Always consult the official Visit Saudi website or the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal for the most current information before planning your trip.

By understanding the designated Saudi Visa Airport and Ports of Entry and the specific categories of Saudi Visa Exempt Countries alongside those eligible for streamlined e-Visa or Visa on Arrival processes, travelers can confidently plan their visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whether for business, tourism, or spiritual fulfillment.