South Africa to Saudi Arabia visa requirements

South African ordinary passport holders need a visa for Saudi Arabia, but can obtain a tourist eVisa online before travel. South Africa was added to the Saudi eVisa programme in October 2023 (the first African country). The eVisa costs SAR 535 (including mandatory medical insurance), is valid for one year, allows multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days per visit. Visa on arrival is also available at major airports for eligible travellers, but applying for the eVisa in advance is recommended. A South Africa (ZA) ordinary passport holder traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism is not visa-exempt, but qualifies for the Kingdom's electronic tourist visa (eVisa). South Africa joined the expanded Saudi eVisa list on 29 October 2023, becoming the first African country eligible. The tourist eVisa is applied for online through the official Visit Saudi portal (visa.visitsaudi.com). It is a one-year, multiple-entry visa permitting stays of up to 90 days per visit and a cumulative maximum of 180 days per year. The total fee is SAR 535, which bundles the government visa fee, the e-platform charge, and compulsory medical insurance covering the trip. Online processing is fast — often a few minutes to a couple of business days. The eVisa covers tourism, leisure, events, family/relative visits, and Umrah (outside the Hajj season), but excludes Hajj, paid work, and study. South African nationals who meet the criteria may alternatively obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) at major international airports via self-service kiosks, with wait times typically under 15 minutes, paying by card; however, the eVisa is strongly recommended to avoid any risk of refused boarding or entry delays. Saudi Arabia is not in the Schengen area, so the Schengen 90/180 rule and ETIAS do not apply. Travellers should ensure a passport valid for at least six months, confirmed accommodation, and a return/onward ticket.