Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates from Saudi Arabia? As a Saudi resident holding a valid Iqama, you now have streamlined access to UAE’s digital visa system. The UAE eVisa for Saudi residents makes traveling to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates quick and hassle-free.
Understanding UAE eVisa for Saudi Residents
The UAE eVisa system represents a significant advancement in regional travel facilitation. Introduced to strengthen GCC cooperation and boost tourism, this electronic visa allows Saudi Iqama holders to visit the Emirates without visiting an embassy or consulate.
Key Statistics (2025-2026)
| Metric | Value |
| Average Processing Time | 3-5 Business Days |
| Approval Rate | ~94% |
| Annual Visitors from KSA | 2.8+ Million |
| eVisa Applications Growth | 35% YoY |
The UAE welcomed over 17.5 million international visitors in 2024, with Saudi-based expatriates representing a significant portion of this influx.
Eligibility Criteria for GCC Expatriates
Not all Saudi residents automatically qualify for the UAE eVisa. Understanding eligibility requirements prevents application rejections and saves valuable time.
Primary Eligibility Requirements
- Valid Saudi Iqama with minimum 6 months validity
- Specific Professional Categories (detailed below)
- Passport Validity extending at least 6 months beyond travel dates
- Clean Immigration Record with no previous UAE visa violations
Eligible Professions and Designations
The UAE government maintains a specific list of approved professions for eVisa eligibility:
| Category | Professions Included |
| Executive Level | Managers, Directors, CEOs, Business Owners |
| Medical Field | Doctors, Pharmacists, Nurses, Dentists |
| Engineering | All licensed engineers across specializations |
| Education | Teachers, Professors, Academic Researchers |
| Technical | IT Specialists, Technicians, Accountants |
| Legal/Financial | Lawyers, Auditors, Financial Consultants |
| Creative | Journalists, Media Professionals, Artists |
Important Note: Laborers, drivers, domestic workers, and certain blue-collar professions typically require traditional visa sponsorship rather than eVisa processing.
Nationality Considerations
While most nationalities residing in Saudi Arabia can apply, citizens from certain countries may face additional scrutiny or alternative requirements. Passport holders from Pakistan, India, Philippines, Egypt, Bangladesh, and similar nations commonly utilize this system successfully.
Types of UAE eVisas Available
Saudi residents can choose from multiple eVisa categories based on their travel purpose and duration needs.
UAE eVisa Categories Comparison Chart
| Visa Type | Duration | Validity | Entry Type | Best For |
| Tourist Visa (30 Days) | 30 Days | 60 Days | Single Entry | Short vacations |
| Tourist Visa (60 Days) | 60 Days | 60 Days | Single Entry | Extended holidays |
| Multiple Entry Visa | 30 Days per visit | 6 Months | Multiple | Business travelers |
| Transit Visa | 48-96 Hours | 14 Days | Single Entry | Layover passengers |
| Long-Term Visit Visa | 90 Days | 6 Months | Single/Multiple | Family visits |
Required Documents
Preparing complete documentation ensures smooth processing and minimizes rejection risks.
Essential Documents Checklist
Passport Requirements
- Color scan of passport bio page
- Minimum 6 months validity
- At least 2 blank pages
Saudi Iqama
- Valid residency permit (front and back)
- Minimum 3-6 months remaining validity
- Profession clearly stated
Photographs
- Recent passport-sized photo
- White background
- Digital format (JPEG/PNG)
Supporting Documents
- Confirmed flight bookings
- Hotel reservations
- Bank statements (3 months recommended)
- Employment letter (if requested)
Document Specifications
| Document | Format | Size Limit | Resolution |
| Passport Scan | PDF/JPEG | 2MB | 300 DPI minimum |
| Iqama Copy | PDF/JPEG | 2MB | Clear, readable |
| Photo | JPEG/PNG | 500KB | 600×600 pixels |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow this detailed guide for successful eVisa submission.
Step 1: Choose Your Application Channel
Option A: Official ICP Portal
- Website: smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- Direct government processing
- Lowest fees
Option B: Authorized Travel Agencies
- Agencies like Musafir, Al Tayyar, Almosafer
- Additional service fees apply
- Personalized assistance available
Option C: UAE Airlines
- Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai
- Bundled with flight bookings
- Convenient processing
Step 2: Create Account and Register
- Visit chosen platform
- Select “New User Registration”
- Enter email and create password
- Verify account via email confirmation
- Complete profile information
Step 3: Select Visa Type
- Choose appropriate visa category
- Confirm travel dates
- Select single or multiple entry
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Submit all required documents
- Ensure files meet specifications
- Double-check information accuracy
Step 5: Pay Fees
- Multiple payment options available
- Credit/debit cards accepted
- Online banking transfers supported
Step 6: Track and Receive
- Monitor application status online
- Receive approved eVisa via email
- Print copy for travel
Processing Time and Fees
2026 UAE eVisa Fee Structure
| Visa Category | Government Fee | Service Charge | Total (Approx.) |
| 30-Day Tourist | AED 200 | AED 50-100 | SAR 210-250 |
| 60-Day Tourist | AED 350 | AED 50-100 | SAR 370-420 |
| Multiple Entry (6 months) | AED 650 | AED 75-150 | SAR 690-760 |
| 96-Hour Transit | AED 100 | AED 30-50 | SAR 105-140 |
Note: Fees subject to change. Agency fees may vary.
Important Rules and Regulations
During Your UAE Stay
Overstaying Penalties
- AED 100 per day for first overstay
- Potential entry bans for repeated violations
- Legal complications and fines
Visa Conditions
- Cannot work on tourist visa
- Must maintain valid health insurance
- Respect local laws and customs
Entry Points
UAE eVisa holders can enter through:
- Airports: Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ)
- Land Borders: Limited options for GCC residents
- Seaports: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
Grace Period Information
The UAE offers a 30-day grace period after visa expiration for departure without penalties (subject to policy updates).
Pro Tips for Saudi-Based Applicants
- Apply Early: Submit applications at least 2 weeks before travel
- Verify Profession: Ensure Iqama profession matches eligible categories
- Keep Copies: Save digital and printed copies of approved eVisa
- Check Validity: Confirm all documents meet validity requirements
- Monitor Updates: Follow UAE immigration announcements for policy changes
Conclusion
The UAE eVisa system offers Saudi residents convenient access to one of the region’s most dynamic destinations. By understanding eligibility requirements, preparing proper documentation, and following correct procedures, GCC expatriates can efficiently obtain their UAE visa for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
For the most current information, always verify requirements through official UAE government channels or consult authorized visa processing agencies.
