Saudi Arabia now offers e-visas for international travellers

Since September 27, 2019, travellers have two options for visiting the Middle East’s largest country: the visa on arrival and the e-Visa. French tourists are strongly advised, however, to secure this essential travel document—one of the e-Visa—before they travel.

To apply, visit the official portal of the Saudi authorities and verify eligibility among the 49 qualifying countries. Four e-Visa categories are available: event, family and friends, leisure, and Umrah. The document is valid for up to one year with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days per entry or 180 days per year. Travellers must hold a passport valid for at least six months on arrival. The entire Saudi territory can be visited except for the cities of Mecca and Medina for non-Muslim visitors.

For business or religious travel, travellers should contact the Saudi Embassy in Paris to obtain a traditional visa.

Saudi Arabia invests heavily in tourism growth

In 2019, Saudi Arabia welcomed a record 17.7 million visitors, up more than 40% over the previous year. Tourism growth has been driven by visa liberalisation, the launch of new destinations and expanding tourist infrastructure.

Top origin markets were India, Egypt, Iran, Egypt and Turkey, with average holiday spend around $1,500 per visitor.

Key attractions include the capital Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina and Mecca. Riyadh boasts museums, art galleries and historic landmarks; Jeddah is known for its Corniche beach, the Al-Balad historic district and the Al-Balad Souq; Medina is Islam’s second holiest city, while Mecca is the faith’s holiest site. Both Medina and Mecca are closed to non-Muslim visitors.

Saudi Arabia has vast untapped tourism potential. The government is targeting $100 billion in tourism investment by 2030 and plans to add new hotels, resorts and attractions to diversify the visitor offer.