Saudi Arabia, the heart of the Arab world and a land of cultural, historical, and religious significance, is emerging as a top travel destination. With its blend of modern cities, ancient archaeological sites, and stunning deserts, it has captivated global interest—especially since the Kingdom opened its doors to tourism through the introduction of the eVisa in 2019.
As part of this transformation, Saudi Arabia has made it easier for European citizens, including Polish and Portuguese nationals, to visit the country for tourism, business, and religious purposes. This guest post provides a comprehensive guide for travelers from Europe, especially Poland and Portugal, looking to explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Introduction to the Saudi eVisa Program
The Saudi eVisa program is an online visa system introduced to facilitate international tourism. Citizens from over 50 countries, including EU member states, are eligible to apply for this electronic visa. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil by investing in tourism and entertainment.
The eVisa allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per visit, with a validity of one year from the date of issuance. It supports multiple entries and is valid for tourism, leisure, events, family visits, and Umrah (excluding Hajj).
Visa Requirements for Polish and Portuguese Citizens
General Eligibility Criteria
Whether you’re a citizen of Poland or Portugal, the requirements for obtaining a Saudi eVisa are largely the same:
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months’ validity.
- A recent passport-sized photograph (as per official guidelines).
- A valid email address to receive notifications and the approved visa.
- A credit or debit card for online payment of the visa fee.
- A basic travel itinerary and accommodation details.
Once the application is submitted, processing usually takes between 24 to 72 hours.
Saudi Visa for Polish Citizens
Polish travelers can benefit from Saudi Arabia’s eVisa initiative, allowing them to experience everything from the towering mountains of Abha to the serene Red Sea coast in Jeddah.
For detailed information about documentation, steps for application, fees, and conditions, Polish nationals can refer to this official resource on the Saudi visa for Polish citizens.
Saudi Visa for Portuguese Citizens
Portuguese citizens also fall under the list of eligible nationalities who can apply for the Saudi eVisa online. With a valid passport and required documents, Portuguese nationals can explore historic Diriyah, modern Riyadh, and ancient Nabatean ruins in AlUla.
To understand the complete process, from eligibility to application tips, visit the official page for the Saudi visa for Portuguese citizens.
Steps to Apply for a Saudi eVisa Online
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for Polish and Portuguese citizens:
- Visit the Official eVisa Portal: Navigate to the official Saudi visa website.
- Create an Account: Register using a valid email address.
- Fill the Application: Enter personal, passport, and travel details accurately.
- Upload Documents: Submit the required digital photograph and passport scan.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Use a valid credit/debit card to complete the payment.
- Receive the Visa: The eVisa will be sent via email once approved.
It’s advisable to print a copy of the approved eVisa before traveling.
Cost and Validity of the Saudi eVisa
The Saudi eVisa fee is approximately SAR 535 (about €130), which includes medical insurance. The insurance provides basic coverage for medical emergencies and COVID-19-related treatment during the stay in Saudi Arabia.
The visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance and allows for multiple entries, with each stay limited to 90 days.
Rules and Restrictions to Know
While the eVisa has simplified travel, visitors must be aware of local laws and customs:
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is expected in public areas. While abayas are no longer mandatory for female tourists, modest attire is still encouraged.
- Behavior: Public display of affection, alcohol consumption, and photographing government buildings are prohibited.
- Respect for Religion: During prayer times, shops may close temporarily, and non-Muslims are not permitted in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
Popular Destinations for First-Time Visitors
Saudi Arabia is brimming with diverse attractions. Some must-visit locations include:
- Riyadh: The capital offers a mix of skyscrapers, museums, and cultural heritage sites.
- Jeddah: Known for its beautiful coastline and the UNESCO-listed Al-Balad historical district.
- AlUla: Home to Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia.
- Abha: A high-altitude city with pleasant weather, green landscapes, and the Asir National Park.
Tourists can also explore the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali), the largest contiguous sand desert in the world.
Umrah on a Tourist Visa
One of the unique benefits of the Saudi eVisa is that it allows non-Muslim travelers to explore the country for tourism and lets Muslim visitors perform Umrah, except during the Hajj season.
This is a major development, especially for Muslims from Poland and Portugal who wish to visit the holy cities without applying for a separate religious visa.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Language: Arabic is the official language, though English is widely understood in cities.
- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR). Currency exchange is available at airports and major hotels.
- Transport: Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used. Intercity buses and domestic flights are also reliable.
- Connectivity: SIM cards for tourists are available at the airport with affordable data packages.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia has transformed into a welcoming destination for international tourists, including citizens from Europe. Whether you’re drawn by cultural exploration, religious pilgrimage, or business opportunities, the Kingdom offers an experience like no other.
Thanks to the streamlined eVisa process, travelers from Poland and Portugal can now explore Saudi Arabia with ease and confidence. Understanding visa requirements, planning your itinerary, and respecting local customs will ensure a safe and memorable journey.
