Saudi Arabia's tourist visa programme, launched in 2019, has opened a remarkable destination — Riyadh, NEOM, AlUla, Jeddah, and the Red Sea — to South Africans. The e-visa costs USD 107.25 (~ZAR 1,980, health insurance included), takes minutes to apply for online, and is typically approved within 24 hours. Multiple entry, 1 year validity. No yellow fever required for South Africans.
Key Warnings
Saudi Arabia observes strict Islamic law — dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered for both genders), avoid public display of affection, and respect prayer times.
Alcohol is completely prohibited in Saudi Arabia. This includes bringing alcohol in your luggage.
Obtain a return ticket before entering — Saudi immigration occasionally asks for proof of onward travel.
Insider Tips
AlUla (ancient Nabataean city of Hegra, sister to Petra in Jordan) is Saudi Arabia's must-see UNESCO site. Hegra is 2,300 years old and far less visited than Petra. Book guided tours in advance.
Riyadh's Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is a spectacular cliff-top panorama 90 km from the city — a free, drive-to destination offering views over a 75 km escarpment.
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast (NEOM and Sharma El Sheikh) offers world-class diving and snorkelling on pristine coral reefs — increasingly accessible via NEOM airline's new routes.
Step-by-Step Guide
Go to visa.visitsaudi.com
Open the official Saudi Tourism Authority visa portal. Click 'Apply Now' for the tourist e-visa.
Create an account and fill in details
Enter passport details, personal information, and upload a passport photo. The form takes approximately 10 minutes.
Pay USD 107.25
Pay by credit or debit card. The fee includes mandatory health insurance — no separate purchase needed.
Receive e-visa (usually within 24 hours)
The approved e-visa is emailed as a PDF. Print or save it to your phone — you will present it on arrival.
Fly to Saudi Arabia
Direct Saudi Airlines and Flynas flights from JNB. Present your passport and e-visa at arrival.
Required Documents
Valid South African passport (6+ months validity, passport scan required)
Digital passport photo (uploaded during online application)
Credit or debit card to pay USD 107.25 online
Recommended (Optional)
Return flight details (may be requested at immigration on arrival)
Hotel booking in Saudi Arabia
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
South Africans need a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa, which is applied for online at visa.visitsaudi.com. Cost is USD 107.25 (~ZAR 1,980), which includes mandatory health insurance. The visa is valid for 1 year, multiple entry, 90 days per visit. Approval typically takes 24 hours. No yellow fever certificate required for South Africans.
Is alcohol allowed in Saudi Arabia?
No — alcohol is completely prohibited in Saudi Arabia. This includes bringing alcohol into the country in your luggage. Saudi Arabia also does not sell alcohol in stores, restaurants, or hotels. Plan accordingly before visiting.