96 hours visit visa saudi arabia

How to Apply for Saudi Arabia’s New 96-Hour Transit Visa for Free

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Saudi Arabia has made it easier for tourists to visit or fly through the country with a new transit visa. On Tuesday, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that a 96-hour visa will be issued electronically free of cost and immediately for anyone flying via Saudia and Flynas airlines. The Stopover Visa allows them to enter the Kingdom for four days and remains valid for three months.

According to the Saudi Press Agency , applications from the Saudia and Flynas airlines’ websites will automatically be passed to the Unified National Visa Platform at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for processing, and the digital visa will be issued and sent to the beneficiary via e-mail immediately after. While the Stopover Visa will particularly benefit passengers in transit who wish to enter the Kingdom to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, the ministry confirms that it will also contribute to achieving the objectives of Saudi’s Vision 2030.

Read on for a step-by-step guide on applying for the free 96-hour transit visa.

1. Visit Saudia.com, and begin selecting your preferred flight as you normally would. 2. After confirming your selection, you will receive the details of your route which includes the ‘Visit Saudi Arabia’ option. Here, choose between ‘Visit Saudi’ or ‘Perform Umrah’. Saudia states that a free night stay will be offered along with your ticket. Now, select your preferred stopover point from one of Saudi Arabia’s six international airports, and the number of days you are staying, with the maximum being four. 4. Next, select from the new set of flights that are available based on your transit details. 5. Fill in the remaining entries including full name, passport details, and contact number, and proceed to select seats. 6. On the next page, click on ‘Get e-visa’.

Read Next:  Saudi Arabia Lifts All Hajj Restrictions for the First Time in Three Years

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Saudi Arabia’s free transit visa: How you can apply

Living in uae.

The 96-hour visa can be used to perform Umrah or visit tourist destinations

Dubai: If you are booking a flight on a Saudi Arabian airline and have a stopover in the country, you can now apply for a transit visa, free of cost.

In an official statement on January 30, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirmed that the service was now effective and passengers can apply for the transit visa through the electronic platforms of Saudia Airlines or flynas. The applications would then “be automatically passed to the unified national visa platform at MOFA, to process and issue the digital visa immediately and send it to the beneficiary via e-mail.”

Here are all the details on how you can apply for this transit visa.

How to apply for the free 96-hour transit visa through Saudia

1. Visit Saudia.com 2. Select your flight details – the port of departure and arrival and the dates of travel. You will be provided with a list of the flights based on your preference. Select the flight you wish to take and click on ‘confirm’. 3. You will then receive the details of your route, with the option to ‘Visit Saudi Arabia’. Within this feature, you will get to select two options – ‘Visit Saudi’ or ‘Perform Umrah’. According to Saudia, a free night stay will be offered along with your ticket. You will then be asked for details of where you wish to stop over (Saudi Arabia has six international airports, and depending on your itinerary, you will be given the options available), and for how many days you wish to stay, with a maximum stay of four days.

4. With the transit details added, you will get a fresh list of flights that you can take, considering the stop over. Make your preferred selection.

5. You will then be asked to enter your personal details, like your full name, passport details and contact number. Once you have filled in the details, click on ‘Select seats’. 6. On the next page, you will get the option to apply for a transit e-visa. Click on ‘Get e-visa’.

7. Select whether you wish to transit in Saudi Arabia on your way to your destination, or on the return flight. Select the check box, which confirms that you agree to the service’s terms and conditions. Click on ‘Proceed to application’. 8. You will then be asked to enter the following details: - Marital Status - Profession - Religion. - Passport number, issue and expiry date. - National ID number. Here you can enter your Emirates ID number, if you are a UAE resident. - Country and city of birth. - Nationality - Country of residence - Address - Medical information – here you will be asked to enter details of whether you have any serious medical conditions or are a Person of Determination. 9. Upload your passport-sized photograph, which meets the requirements mentioned below.

10. Once you have submitted your application for the e-visa, continue with your flight booking, by selecting your seats and any extra services like an extra luggage limit and fast-track check in.

11. Proceed to making the payment.

Once you have made the payment, you will receive the visa and insurance documents via email.

Once you have booked and paid for your flights, the visa is issued almost instantly, as per the websites of the Saudi based airlines. Your Stopover Visa will then be emailed to you.

How to apply through flynas

According the call centre of flynas, ticket holders will be able to apply for the visa, once they have completed their booking.

- Once you have made the payment for your booking and received your ticket details, visit flynas.com - Click on the ‘Manage’ tab on the left of the screen. Enter your PNR (Passenger Name Record) number and the last name. You will be able to find your PNR number on the ticket you receive on your email. - Once you enter these details, you will find the details of your booking, with options to add on certain services. - Select ‘Apply for stopover visa’. - You can then enter your personal details, like your full name, nationality, and contact information; as well as your passport details. Once you have filled in the application form, click ‘submit’. - According to the flynas website, your visa will then be emailed to you.

Do you have any questions related to the topics covered in Living in UAE? Write to us at [email protected]

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Saudi Arabia launches first ‘Stopover Visa’ for all travellers

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and other relevant authorities, has announced the launch of a new 96-hour Stopover Visa for passengers booked on flynas or SAUDIA flights to the Kingdom.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s effort to enhance the convenience of its tourism offerings under Saudi Vision 2030; the new Stopover Visa comes free of charge to passengers travelling to their final destination via any airport in Saudi on SAUDIA or flynas flights. Applications for the visa will be automatically available through the SAUDIA or flynas booking platforms up to 90 days in advance of travel and can be completed in as little as three minutes.

The Stopover Visa will allow passengers to stay in the country for up to 96 hours, enabling more visitors than ever to explore Saudi’s incomparable historical, cultural, and spiritual sites. Visitors can also use the Stopover Visa to break up long-haul flights, extend a business trip or book a bonus trip to experience Saudi’s burgeoning entertainment and seasonal events calendar.

Even more exciting for visitors, Stopover Visa holders will be eligible for a complimentary one-night hotel stay during the stopover when booking through SAUDIA. To help visitors make the most of their stopover, custom 24, 48, 72 and 96-hour itineraries have been developed to inspire visitors to stroll through Jeddah’s Al-Balad, or visit the Al-Turaif district in Diriyah, one of Saudi’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans of reaching 100 million visits annually by 2030 are well on track, with ongoing efforts to modernise and revolutionise the tourism industry seen at every turn. The stopover visa is a huge step in turning Saudi Arabia into a world-class tourism destination.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “The announcement of Saudi’s inaugural Stopover Visa is a landmark example of integrated public and private sector cooperation. Four of the Top Ten global routes were in or out of Saudi airports in 2022, a testament to the appeal of Saudi Arabia to travellers.

Saudi is committed to a seamless visitor experience. In partnership with our national air carriers, SAUDIA and flynas, we are using digital platforms to provide an instant Stopover Visa, which only enhances our world-class offerings.”

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A Comprehensive Guide to Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and booming economy, Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular travel destination for tourists and business travelers. As a transit hub for international flights , the Kingdom offers a convenient stopover option for travelers en route to other destinations. To facilitate smooth transit experiences, Saudi Arabia provides a well-defined transit visa process. This comprehensive guide will explore the details of obtaining a transit visa for Saudi Arabia, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, visa duration, and essential information for transit travelers.

Understanding Transit Visa 

A transit visa is a temporary entry permit granted by a country to travelers passing through on their way to a different destination. In the case of Saudi Arabia, a transit visa allows visitors to enter and remain in the country for a specified period, typically up to 72 hours, without the need for a regular visitor visa. It enables travelers to explore the country, participate in various activities, or relax during their layover before continuing their journey.

Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify for a transit visa for Saudi Arabia, travelers must meet specific eligibility requirements. These criteria include:

Confirmed onward ticket

Applicants must possess a confirmed ticket for onward travel to a third country within the designated transit period.

Valid visa for the destination country

Travelers must hold a valid visa or entry permit for the country they are ultimately destined for.

Applicable airline carrier

Passengers must travel on specific airlines approved by the Saudi Arabian authorities for transit purposes. These airlines usually have agreements with the Saudi government to facilitate smooth transit procedures.

Passport validity

The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months from entry into Saudi Arabia.

Travel documents

Applicants must hold all necessary documents for their final destination, such as visas, permits, and health certificates.

Application Process

Applying for a transit visa for Saudi Arabia involves a straightforward process. Here are the general steps to follow:

Check Eligibility

Before proceeding with the application, verify that you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned earlier.

Contact the airline

Contact your airline carrier to confirm their participation in the transit visa program. They can guide specific requirements and any additional documentation needed.

Prepare documents

Gather the required documents, typically including a valid passport, confirmed onward ticket, and valid visa for the final destination. Make sure your passport has blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps.

Complete the application form

Fill out the transit visa application form accurately, providing the necessary personal and travel details. This form is usually available on the official website of the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through the airline carrier.

Submit the application

Submit the finalized application form and supporting documents to the airline or designated visa processing centers. Some airlines allow online submission, while others may require physical compliance at their offices.

Pay the visa fee

Pay the applicable visa fee, which can vary depending on the airline and transit duration. The cost is generally non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is approved.

Await processing

The processing time for a transit visa can vary, but it is typically completed within a few working days. It is advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

Receive the visa: If approved, you will receive the transit visa either as a physical sticker in your passport or as an e-visa, depending on the processing system of the airline or visa center.

 Transit Visa Duration and Conditions 

 A transit visa for Saudi Arabia is usually valid for a maximum of 72 hours (three days) from entry. It allows travelers to stay within the designated transit areas of the airport or venture out for short visits within the country. It is important to note that a transit visa does not grant permission to work or engage in business activities in Saudi Arabia.

While holding a transit visa, travelers are expected to adhere to particular conditions:

Stay within the transit area

 Transit visa holders must generally remain within the airport transit area during their layover. However, some airports in Saudi Arabia have specific facilities for transit passengers, including transit hotels, lounges, and duty-free shopping areas, allowing them to make the most of their short stay.

Temporary admission to Saudi Arabia

 In some cases, transit visa holders may be allowed temporary admission to the country if they have a valid reason, such as attending a specific event or conducting business meetings. This requires obtaining prior approval from the relevant Saudi authorities.

Prohibited activities

Transit visa holders are prohibited from seeking employment, starting a business, or participating in activities inconsistent with the transit’s purpose.

Compliance with local laws and customs

 Travelers must respect Saudi Arabia’s laws and cultural norms during their stay, including dress code, public behavior, and customs regulations.

Special Transit Visa Programs

In addition to the regular transit visa, Saudi Arabia has introduced special programs to enhance the transit experience for travelers. These programs offer extended transit periods and opportunities for sightseeing or exploring the country. Here are two unique programs:

The “Saudi Tourist Visa on Arrival” program

Under this program, passengers arriving in Saudi Arabia via King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh or King Fahd International Airport in Dammam can obtain a tourist visa. This allows them to stay in the state for up to 3 days (72 hours) without a prior visa. During transit, travelers can explore nearby attractions, such as Riyadh’s historical sites or Dammam’s coastal areas.

The “Saudi Arabian Airlines Transit Plus” program

This initiative by Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) offers transit passengers a chance to extend their layover up to 96 hours (four days) and explore the Kingdom’s attractions. The program includes various tourism packages, transportation services, and accommodations tailored to the needs of transit travelers. This allows visitors to experience the rich culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia, such as visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, exploring bustling markets, or enjoying traditional cuisine.

Obtaining a transit visa for Saudi Arabia allows travelers to experience the country’s unique culture, heritage, and hospitality during their layovers. By following the eligibility criteria, submitting the required documents, and abiding by the visa conditions, transit passengers can enjoy a memorable glimpse of Saudi Arabia en route to their final destination. Whether it’s a short visit to the vibrant cities or a stopover exploration of historical sites, a transit visa provides a valuable chance to make most of your time in the Kingdom.

Travelers passing through Saudi Arabia and having a layover of more than a few hours may need a transit visa, depending on their nationality and the duration of their stay. It is recommended to check with your country’s Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate to determine if you require a transit visa.

A transit visa for Saudi Arabia is typically valid for up to 72 hours (three days) from entry. Travelers must depart within the specified timeframe.

In most cases, transit visa holders must stay within the airport transit area. However, some airports in Saudi Arabia have facilities that allow transit passengers to explore nearby attractions within a limited radius. It is preferable to check with the airline or airport authorities regarding any specific provisions for transit passengers.

The application process for a transit visa may vary depending on the airline. Some airlines facilitate the visa application process for their passengers, while others may require travelers to apply directly through designated visa processing centers or the Saudi Arabian embassy/consulate. It is recommended to contact your airline for guidance on the application procedure.

Generally, transit visas are issued for a specific duration and cannot be extended. However, in some instances, travelers may be allowed temporary admission to Saudi Arabia with prior approval from the relevant authorities. This requires valid reasons and proper documentation. Before traveling, clarifying this with the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate is essential.

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I am Saif. I am the founder and chief writer for his own website called KSA Expat Guide and a freelance writer and web developer for many other websites. I live in Saudi Arabia as an ex-pat. Love to research all about KSA. I use my spare time to learn new things, travel, and write about them, especially when it comes to technology and things from the past.

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96-hour visa with flight ticket: saudi airline announces new travel service, the passenger is allowed to use this time to perform haj, umrah as well, by web desk.

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Saudi Arabian airline Saudia has announced that travellers holding a flight ticket from the airline will be allowed to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a maximum of four days (or 96 hours), local media reported. The passenger will also be allowed to use this time to perform Haj and Umrah in the Kingdom.

This system is already in place on a number of UAE-based airlines, with Etihad, Emirates, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, and Air Arabia Abu Dhabi offering transit visas of 48 to 96 hours along with plane tickets.

A spokesperson for Saudia is reported as saying that when passengers book plane tickets online, they will be asked whether or not they require a visa. If they indicate that they do, they will be redirected to fill out a form and complete some procedures, not exceeding three minutes long.

The service will extend to all international airports within the country.

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Saudi Arabia approves 48-hour and 96-hour transit visit visas

Saudi Arabia has approved issuance of transit visit visas for a validity period of 48 hours (two day) and 96 hours (4-day) and the visas will cost SR100 and SR300 respectively.

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All about the Saudi Transit Visa

One of the reasons we’d previously put off traveling to Saudi Arabia was the high cost of the visa to visit, combined with a perceived difficulty in visiting.  And so when we heard that it was possible to get a free Saudi transit visa we looked into it further.  The Saudi transit visa allows foreign travelers to make a 4-day stopover in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using this free visa.  It’s a great way to get an introduction to Saudi Arabia and we also benefited from some great deals that the Saudi Tourism Authority is offering.  Here’s all you need to know about the Saudi Transit Visa, our experiences, and how to explore using it.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Saudi Arabia and there are also options to extend your stay or apply for longer visas to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  As always with visas you should check the advice of your government, and also the issuing authority (i.e. the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) for the latest information.  Meanwhile here are our experiences and learnings from November 2023.

What is the Saudi Transit Visa

The Saudi Transit Visa is a free (with a small admin fee) visa that means that you can visit the Kingdom on a layover for up to 96 hours.  The Saudi Tourism Authority is also offering additional deals, which make it an interesting place to fly via if you’re heading in that direction.  The benefits (at the time of writing) include a free night in a hotel and a free transfer from the airport to your hotel. 

We were in Tunisia and heading towards South East Asia and couldn’t resist taking a further look.

How to apply for the Saudi Transit Visa

The Saudi Transit visa application is part of the flight booking process through the associated airlines – Saudia Airlines and Flynas.  We chose our flights, gathered together the information for the transit visa, and then sat down on a decent internet connection and started booking.

You’ll start the flight booking then go straight onto the visa application process and then pay for it all.  Our flight booking confirmation came through instantly, and our visa application was processed and in our inbox in 2 (yes two) minutes.

What you need for the Saudi Transit Visa

To benefit from the free Saudi Transit Visa you need to apply for it DURING YOUR FLIGHT BOOKING PROCESS, there’s more on that shortly, but here’s the information that you will need on hand during your booking procedure.

You will need

• a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
• citizenship or a residence permit from the country you are applying from (i.e. the country in which you live)
• a passport-sized colored photograph.  This photo must be 200 * 200px file size, a tiny 20kb
• a completed and signed Saudi visa questionnaire, which you’ll do online

Saudi Transit Visa Free Offers

We’d first seen the reasonably priced flights with Saudia Airlines in 2022 but weren’t in a position to take advantage of them, but as we were spending a few weeks in Tunisia and whilst looking to get to South East Asia we took another look at Saudia and found a great option for us.  Flights from Tunis Carthage to Male, Maldives, via Jeddah. You can read my review of the Saudia Airlines Business Class flights here.

The deal included a Saudi Transit visa, which gave us two full days in Jeddah.   And the Saudi Tourism Authority sweetened the deal by adding a voucher for a free night in a hotel AND a free transfer from the airport to the hotel.

Free hotel and one way transfer with the Saudi Transit Visa

While our layover in Jeddah ended up being 2 full days and 3 nights (ok, so we left the hotel at 03:45 on the last night, but you know what I mean), the free hotel night and the free one-way transfer were a great option.  You can read more about the offer from Saudi tourism here .

While the offer that we took included a one way transfer, which is only available going FROM the airport to your hotel you’ll need to know how to go from Jeddah back to the airport, I wrote about that here.

Our experience with the Saudi Transit Visa Offers

The take advantage of the Saudi Transit visa offer you need to fly with either Saudia Airlines or Flynas and you need to transit Saudi Arabia.  We took advantage of a great deal on a flight from Tunis, Tunisia to Male in the Maldives via Jeddah.

Our offer gave us 70 hours and 20 minutes in Saudi Arabia, a free night in a hotel (which came with free breakfast), and a free one way transfer to the hotel from the airport.  We booked two additional nights at the same hotel.

For us, it was a great deal, especially as we got to fly business class, as the cost of business class flights was only around US$75 more each than Saudia’s Guest Class, and that was for BOTH of the flights in total.  It meant that we got into the lounge at Tunis Carthage Airport, and our bags came through priority, and we got to the front of the line when it came to passport control in Jeddah.  Brilliant.

Step 1:  Book a flight with Saudia Airlines (or Flynas)

The first step in getting the Saudi Transit Visa is to find a flight with Saudia or Flynas . 

Step 1a:  Apply for the transit visa as part of the flight booking process

During the flight booking process, you’ll apply for your transit visa.  If you do not apply for your transit visa as part of this process it’s not free and you don’t get the free hotel deal either.

I seriously recommend that you have your passport details, your visa photo (see the details above), and information ready BEFORE you start the flight booking process, it will make it much easier.

The Saudi Transit visa is currently free, but there’s a small admin fee, which worked out to £43.70 in total for both of us

Our visa approvals came through in 2 minutes.

The visa is valid for up to 96 hours in the Kingdom, and its validity lasts for 90 days from the date of issuance.

Step 2:  Book your free hotel accommodation

Once your transit visa has come through you can then book your free night accommodation.  There is some misinformation around that if you fly Business Class then you get two nights free accommodation.  That’s not the case.  It’s just one night.

You will need your flight PNR to book your free hotel accommodation.

Book your free accommodation at https://holidaysbysaudia.com/en-US/dynamicflow/pnrbased

Simply put in your PNR code, and confirm the surname of the lead booker, and go from there.

You’ll be offered several hotel options (for Jeddah there were four hotels to choose from).  We chose the Crown Town Hotel , on the basis that it was the closest to Al Balad, the historic old town area in Jeddah that we wanted to explore.

You can click all the way through and see how much it is for additional nights at the hotel via Saudia Holidays.  Here’s a hint.  We booked our free night accommodation through the Saudia Holidays site, but booked two additional nights through Agoda , as it was a better deal for us.  Although with Saudia breakfast was included, with Agoda it was not. Most of the hotels are also available to book through booking.com .

(When you check in physically at the hotel you’ll just need to give them the confirmation vouchers for ALL of your bookings).

The hotel booking via Saudia Holidays actually offered us a room each for our free stay (although we’re married we have different last names), but we chose to stay in the same room.  The site is a bit clunky, but if you want to stay in the same room, just opt for the one room.

Follow all the prompts on the Saudia Holidays website to confirm your flight details and that you want free transport.

If you are booking a return flight, then the free hotel and transfer option is ONLY available in one of the directions, not both ways.  We flew one way so this was not an issue for us.

Step 3:  Flying into Saudi Arabia

We flew into Jeddah from Tunis Carthage airport, and the day before our flight we received a WhatsApp from the team at Saudia Holidays confirming that they would meet us at Jeddah Airport and take us to the shuttle transfer to our hotel.

What they actually said was that they’d meet us at the “Aquarium” after arrivals and that we should WhatsApp them when we got there.   This boggled my mind.  There was an aquarium at the airport?  Wow.

Anyways. We did.

And it’s a bit of a pain, as there is NO free WiFi at Jeddah Airport arrivals, so you’ll need an internationally roaming sim set up before you get there, HOWEVER…

They’re actually based on the Saudi Tourist Booth IMMEDIATELY ON THE LEFT AS YOU WALK OUT OF ARRIVALS (You’ll see the aquarium straight in front of you).

At the booth, you’ll need to show all passports and the hotel coupon that you received when booking through the saudiaholidays website.  You do NOT need to print these, you can show the PDF that’s emailed to you.

What you should do when you meet your transfer guide is to get a hold of the nifty guide to the city that you’re in.  The guide for Jeddah is really useful (and an interesting read), the small map is not so much, but it will give you a general idea of the layout of the city. We used it to help plan our Jeddah Itinerary.

Step 4:  Getting the Free Transfer to Your Free Hotel with the Saudi Transit Visa

We got some cash from the ATM and grabbed a drink from Starbucks, (bottled water is REALLY cheap, and they accept cards and cash, although he wasn’t too happy with my “just fresh out of the ATM 100 Riyal note for my measly bottle of water) and sat and waited 20 minutes. You can read more about ATMS and cash (and whether you need it) in Saudi Arabia here .

The transfers for the free Saudi transit visa run with shuttle buses, and we were waiting for it to return from its last trip. Our guide took us right to the bus, which came into the Shuttle bus arrival area downstairs at the King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah Airport), where you’ll find the bottom of the aquarium. All really, really easy.

If you decide not to take advantage of the free transfer, then this is where the shuttle buses, taxis, and ride-sharing transports (Uber, Careem, and MyTaxi) leave from anyways.

We were the only ones on the bus and it took us (in glorious air-conditioned comfort) to the Crown Town Hotel in about 30 minutes, dropping us off right outside.

Step 5.  Checking into your Hotel with the Saudi Transit Visa

It’s all really, really easy.  Just rock up to reception, and hand over your passport and the voucher for your hotel that was emailed to you.  If you’ve booked additional nights with a different provider (like we did with Agoda ), then just hand that over too.  As with the free transfer, you do NOT need to print these, the electronic copy is fine.

And that’s it.  As we got our passports stamped our very friendly immigration guy did try to upsell us to take a longer visa for Saudi Arabia but we’re just here on a short hop to explore Jeddah before heading to the Maldives.  I’m excited to visit Jeddah and see how we like it and if we want to explore more of the Kingdom in the future.

Your return transport and additional nights at the hotel are NOT covered for free, but just book additional hotel nights with Saudia Holidays, Agoda , or Booking.com and it’s really easy.  And as for your transport back from Jeddah to the airport?  I’ve covered that here .

FAQS about the Saudi Transit Visa

This was honestly a relatively daunting process.  If you check out the Tripadvisor forums for people asking for information you’re likely to think that it’s way too difficult and that the deals aren’t actually real.  However.  It is real.  The process is simple, so long as you follow it and we had a great time.  Here are the answers to the questions we had about the Saudi Transit Visa.

Is the Saudi Transit Visa free?

Yes, kind of.  There is a cost of (for us £43.70 in total for both transit visas), which was detailed on our application as an admin fee.  So I guess it qualifies as free, but with an admin fee.  However, compared to the previous costs we’d been quoted for Saudi Arabia visas (around US$200 each) we thought this was a great deal.  With visas, you should always check with the issuing authority for the current pricing.

Where do you book your free hotel with Saudia?

Once you’ve booked and paid for your flight, you can book your free stopover hotel at this address https://holidaysbysaudia.com/en-US/dynamicflow/pnrbased

Can I book a hotel in Makkah with the Saudi Transit Visa?

The hotels that are available for Jeddah are in Jeddah.  There is a separate section of the transit visa option if you are heading to Saudi to perform Umrah – and you can find all the details here.  That will clarify if the hotels in Makkah are available for the free transit option.

I have already booked my flights can I get a free transit visa?

No.  The free transit visa option is only (currently) available if you book the flight and apply for the visa at the time of the flight booking.

Is the transit visa the same as the stopover visa?

Yes.  You’ll see the transit visa termed the stopover visa on the Saudia Airlines website.  There’s more here

How long can you stay in Saudi Arabia on a transit visa?

The Saudi Arabian transit visa is valid for a maximum of 96 hours. 

Travel Tips for Saudi Arabia

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Read about Cash, Payments and ATMs in Saudi Arabia here
• Get the right power adapter for Saudi Arabia – our guide is here
• Get an eSim for Saudi Arabia to make life MUCH easier. – our guide to the best SIM cards in Saudi Arabia is here
• Prebook your Saudi Arabia Airport Transfer with Welcome Pickups
• Book the best tours, attractions and guides on Get Your Guide
• Save money in Saudi Arabia with a Wise debit card
• Book accommodation in Saudi Arabia with Booking

Final Words on Our Saudi Transit Visa Experience

I must admit I was skeptical when we first looked at this.  The reviews I’d read about the Saudi Transit visa and the free hotel night and transfers were not good.  I didn’t expect that any of it would be free and that it would all be difficult.  However, our booking process was easy, the visa application was quick and simple.  The free transfer from the airport was easy (once we figured out where they were) and the folks at the Crown Town Hotel (and in Jeddah as a whole) were fabulously friendly.  Of course, it also helped that the flights in and out of Jeddah were also a great experience.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Sarah Carter

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New 96-hour Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia Launched

Saudi arabia's ministry of foreign affairs recently introduced an electronic visa specifically designed for transit passengers, permitting them to continue their stay in the country for a maximum of 96 hours. .

It is  important to note that this transit visa for Saudi Arabia is exclusively accessible to specific categories of passengers who arrive in the Kingdom.

Kindly refer to the following information to determine your eligibility for the 96-hour transit visa for Saudi Arabia and explore alternative visa options that may better suit your requirements.

Introducing the New Saudi Arabia Transit Visa

Explore the kingdom for up to 96 hours.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia has recently unveiled an exciting addition to their visa offerings - the transit visa. This visa, designed specifically for transit passengers, allows holders to enjoy a stay of up to 96 hours in the Kingdom.

Key Features of the Saudi 96-Hour Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia:

• Purpose: The visa is suitable for various purposes, including transit through the country, tourism, business activities, performing  Umrah , and visiting the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.
• Vision 2030 Initiative: This transit visa is part of Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030 program, which aims to position the country as a premier global tourism and  pilgrimage destination .
• Economic Impact: As part of Vision 2030, the Saudi Minister of Tourism has aimed to attract significant tourist investments, totaling 220 billion riyals ($53.3 billion) by the end of 2023 and 500 billion riyals ($133 billion) by 2030. The introduction of the transit visa is a significant step towards achieving these targets.

By  offering this new transit visa, Saudi Arabia opens its doors to travelers seeking to explore the country's rich heritage , vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, all within a convenient 96-hour window.

READ MORE: Planning to visit Jeddah to perform Umrah this year? Then, you should know everything about the latest Saudi marine transit visa. Check it out here. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Marine Transit Visa .

Eligibility for the 96-Hour Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia

Certain criteria must be met to apply for the 96-hour transit visa for Saudi Arabia. Please review the following requirements to determine your eligibility:

• Partner Airlines: The transit visa is currently available for clients who used to arrange their flights with either Saudia or Flynas air carriers.
• Flight Duration: Your selected flights should have a maximum time gap of 96 hours between arrival and departure. This means you can  stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 4 days during transit.
• Departure and Arrival Cities: To qualify for the transit visa, your departure and arrival cities must be located outside of Saudi Arabia.
• Saudi Entry Requirements: It is essential to meet the entry requirements set by Saudi Arabia. These requirements include possessing a passport that is valid for at a time duration of at least 6 months from the date of entry.

READ MORE: Unless you are a national of one of the four nations (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, or the UAE) free from visa requirements, you must show your passport to enter Saudi Arabia. You must first register for the eVisa online for your passport to be approved. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements .

Considerations and Alternatives to the 96-Hour Saudi Transit Visa

While the Saudi 96-hour transit visa offers certain advantages, you should be aware of its limitations and explore alternative options that may better suit your needs. Here are some downsides of the transit visa and an alternative worth considering:

• Duration and Extension: The 96 -Hour transit visa restricts your stay in Saudi Arabia to a  maximum of 4 days and cannot be extended beyond this period.
• Limited Airline Options: The 96-Hour transit visa is currently available only for passengers who have booked their flights through Flynas or Saudia. These airlines serve a limited number of airports, which may not be ideal for all travelers.
• Entry Guarantee and Document Verification: While holding a transit visa, entry to Saudi Arabia is not guaranteed, as border security personnel carefully scrutinize all passenger documents to ensure proper application submission.

Considering these downsides and associated risks, you might find exploring the Saudi tourist eVisa as an alternative advantageous.

Benefits of the Saudi Tourist eVisa:

• Extended Stay: The tourist eVisa allows a stay of up to 90 days, offering you significantly more time to discover the Kingdom's wonders.
• Multiple Entries: With the tourist eVisa, you can enter and exit Saudi Arabia multiple times within the validity period, providing greater flexibility for your travel plans.
• Airline Flexibility: The tourist eVisa is not restricted to specific airlines and can be used in conjunction with any airline of your choice.
• Enhanced Application Review: When you apply for a tourist eVisa, the documentation and application form undergo careful scrutiny to minimize the risk of rejection or denial of entry upon arrival.

Applying for the Free Saudi Arabia Transit Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

If you can  meet the needed eligibility requirements for the 4-day stopover visa  for Saudi Arabia, follow these procedures to complete the application process:

• Book Flights: Make your flight reservations through the official online platforms of either Saudia or Flynas. Ensure that your selected flights have a maximum time gap of 96 hours between arrival and departure.
• Visa Application: While booking your flights, simultaneously submit your  visa application . Provide the needed information as requested in the application form.
• Upload Photo: Attach a recent, passport-sized photo with a resolution of 200 pixels square and a file size below 20 kilobytes.
• Email Address: Supply a valid email address to receive updates and notifications regarding your visa application.
• Visa Fee Payment: Complete the payment of the visa fee as required during the application process.
• Visa Issuance: Once your visa application has been processed, you will receive the visa in your email inbox. Ensure to check your email regularly and keep the visa document accessible for verification purposes.

Important Notes:

• Flight Booking Window: You  can book your flights up to 90 days before your departure date . However, submitting your visa application well in advance is advisable to allow for proper processing.
• Complimentary Hotel Stay (Saudia Passengers): If you book your flights through Saudia, you may be eligible for a one-night complimentary hotel stay.  Look for the Saudia Holidays banner on the confirmation page for further details . Please note that the availability of the complimentary night's stay is subject to availability and presentation of the boarding pass at the hotel check-in.

It's critical to keep up with any updates or modifications in the application process. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official Saudi Arabian authorities or their embassy/consulate.

READ MORE: Using the website of the Online Saudi Arabia, you may rapidly apply for a Saudi Arabia e-Visa. The procedure is easy and uncomplicated. You may finish the Saudi Arabia e-visa application in only 5 minutes. Go to the website, click "Apply Online," and adhere to the instructions. Learn more at Complete Guide to Saudi Arabia e-Visa .

Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. British citizens , US citizens , Australian citizens , French citizens , Spanish Citizens , Dutch Citizens and Italian citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa. Should you need any help or require any clarifications you should contact our Saudi Visa Help Desk  for support and guidance.

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48 Hour & 96 Hour Transit Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia

Transit visit visa for short time visit to saudi arabia.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has approved Transit Visit Visas with a validity of 48 hours and 98 hours for the cost of SR100 for 48 hours transit Visa and SR300 for 96 hour Transit Visit Visa

Council of Ministers in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia has approved the issuance of Transit Visa for anyone who wanted to visit Saudi Arabia for 2 or 4 days.

48 Hour & 96 Hour Transit Visit Visa in Saudi Arabia

All these decisions are taken keeping in mind easing the regulations related to the entry visas to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

The Council of Ministers decided to approve the amendment of Paragraph 3 of the Schedule for the Structure of Visit, Hajj and Transit Visas in the following manner.

• Transit visa for visit by air, sea, or land, with a validity of 96 hours, and the duration of stay is 96 hours for a fee of SR300.

• Transit visa for visit by air, sea, or land, with a validity of 48 hours, and the period of stay is 48 hours, with a fee of SR100.

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How to get free visa to visit Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours

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Did you know you can visit Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours without having to pay for a visa? This is now possible after the country launched its Stopover Visa this year.

The Stopover Visa is part of a range of initiatives introduced by the Saudi government to encourage more people to visit the country.

The Stopover visa is free for passengers traveling on Saudia airline or Flynas airline. The visa allows visitors to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours, or 4 days.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has extended its visa on arrival option to GCC residents, as well as holders of valid US, UK and Schengen visa, and permanent residents of UK, US or any EU country.

Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia also launched an instant tourist e-visa that is available to UK, US, and Schengen visas holders, as well as permanent residents of UK, US, and any EU country to obtain tourist e-visas to Saudi Arabia.

To get tourist e-visas to Saudi Arabia, travelers can go to www.mofa.gov.sa. Saudi Arabia has previously extended regulation to provide visas on arrival to the six categories. ICA/Expat Media

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