Short answer
Visa on arrival
British citizens do not need to apply in advance: a visa is issued on arrival in Saudi Arabia.
How to enter
Saudi Arabia's tourist e-visa is valid for one year with stays of up to 90 days in total. Umrah is allowed on a tourist visa; Hajj needs a separate visa.
Visitors who are not eligible for the e-visa apply for a visit visa through a Saudi embassy or an accredited agent.
Official website: Visit Saudi e-visa portal
Before you travel
- Make sure your British passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and has blank pages.
- Carry a return or onward ticket, your hotel booking and proof that you can pay for your stay; border officers can ask for them even when no visa is needed.
- Check whether your airline needs to see your visa or authorization at check-in; many will refuse boarding without it.
- Visas for work, study or long stays follow different rules from the tourist rules on this page.
Visa rules for Saudi Arabia by passport
 Pakistan | Visa required |
 India | Visa required |
 Bangladesh | Visa required |
 Nigeria | Visa required |
 Philippines | Visa required |
 Egypt | Visa required |
 United States | On arrival |
 United Kingdom | On arrival |
Frequently asked questions
Do British citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
Visa on arrival. British citizens do not need to apply in advance: a visa is issued on arrival in Saudi Arabia.
How long can British citizens stay in Saudi Arabia?
The permitted stay depends on the authorization issued; check the official website before travel.
Where do British citizens apply for a Saudi Arabia visa?
Use the official website: Visit Saudi e-visa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra service fees.
How many countries can British passport holders visit without a visa?
British passport holders can visit 120 countries visa-free and 43 more with a visa on arrival or eTA.
Based on the Passport Index dataset with our verified corrections for recent rule changes, last reviewed October 19, 2026. Entry rules change often and depend on your passport, purpose of travel and onward tickets. Always confirm with the official website or embassy before you book.