Country guide

Saudi Arabia

Visa

Visa on arrival

Vaccinations

Conditional

Currency

Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR)

Time zones

UTC/GMT +3 hours (1 hour ahead of South Africa)

Dialing code

+ 966

Best time to go

November – February (winter). Saudi Arabia has a very mild winter, with some rainfalls. During the summer, temperatures can rise to 50°C.

Drinking water

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Bottled water is available

Tourism office

www.visitsaudi.com/en

Travel tips

As this is a predominately Islamic country, dress should always be conservative
Eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan is prohibited during daylight hours.
The official weekend is Friday and Saturday.

Visa guide

Passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry
Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Saudi Arabia, including accommodations, food, and transportation expenses.
For VOA: Once you arrive at your destination’s airport or entry point in Saudi, use the self-service devices (KIOSK) or go directly to the passport control office to apply for your visa on arrival.

Visas are required by SA passport holders.
Tourist visas are available on arrival or an e-visa can be applied for: ksavisa.sa

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mission
711 Duncan St, Hatfield, Pretoria
Tel: 012 362 4233
Email: zaemb@mofa.gov.sa
Website: za.saudiembassy.sa

Up to 3 working days

The multiple entry visa is valid for a year from its issue date. The visa allows for stays of up to 90 days.

E-visa / Visa on arrival: SAR 535

SA Embassy
7184 Mohammed Al Abadry Street, Al Khuzama District, Riyadh
Tel: +966(11) 482 8515
E-mail: riyadh.info@dirco.gov.za
Web: dirco1.azurewebsites.net/saudi_arabia

Compulsory: None
Recommended Travel Vaccines: Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio
Malaria Risk

Pilgrims travelling for Hajj/Umrah: Compulsory: Yellow Fever, Meningococcal Meningitis

2026: Feb 22; Mar 20-22; May 26-29; Sep 23