Saudi Arabia Business Visa vs. Tourist Visa: Understanding the Differences

Updated on Nov 20, 2024 | Saudi e-Visa

Visiting Saudi Arabia soon? Are you going for pleasure or a business trip? According to your purpose of visit, the type of visa you will apply for will vary. Saudi Arabia offers two different visas for these two different purposes-a Saudi Tourist visa for tourism and a Saudi Business visa for business visits. So, before you apply, understanding the differences is important. Let us tell you in brief!

Saudi Business Visa and Saudi Tourist Visa: How Do They Differ?

Saudi Arabia is a beautiful land of natural wonders, from beaches to islands to mountains, and even the home of spiritual journeys and historical culture. On the other hand, it's an evolving hub for business opportunities that draws so many entrepreneurs here every year. So, whether you are in Saudi Arabia for tourism or business activities, you need a Saudi Tourist visa or a Saudi Arabia Business visa to enter unless you are from any of these visa-exempt countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE.

Now, first, determine which type of visa you need. Well, if you are planning for any business-related activities, for example, business meetings, conferences, startup meetings, commercial or industrial seminars, staff visits in less than 90 days, or commercial workshops, you need a Business visa to Saudi Arabia. Otherwise, when you are visiting here to meet friends, and family, or discover the landscapes and historical culture of Saudi Arabia, applying for a Saudi Tourist eVisa is more appropriate. Make sure you check whether the nationality you are from is eligible to make an online visa application to Saudi Arabia.

Speaking of the difference between a Saudi Business visa and a Tourist visa, the difference is usually in their visa requirements. For instance:

Saudi Arabia Business eVisa

  • A passport from eligible countries with six months validity and two blank pages.
  • Recent coloured photos.
  • A complete application form.
  • Up-to-date and active email.
  • A valid payment method.
  • Employment verification letter from the very organization or employer.
  • Digital copy of that invitation letter from the Saudi company.

Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa

Just like the Business visa, you need to have a valid passport with two blank pages for official stamping and six months validity, a completed application form, an up-to-date email address, and a coloured passport size photo. For additional documents, you need to submit:

  • Your travel itinerary.
  • Proof of funds to accommodate your stay here.
  • Return flight tickets.

What Is the Processing Time for Tourist Visas and Business Visas for Saudi?

For traditional visas to Saudi Arabia, it used to take months whether for business or tourism. But, now, with the advancement of eVisa, the processing time for Tourist visa and Business visa to Saudi Arabia has been streamlined. You can receive the visa approval via your email just within 24 hours. However, we recommend applying at least three days before taking your flight.

In a Nutshell

Saudi Business visas and Tourist visas serve two different purposes for visiting Saudi Arabia. Any of these visas you apply for, it must be error-free. And, if you need expert guidance, count on us. Our agents at SAUDI ARABIA VISA can assist you with obtaining travel authorization, document translation, and even application review. Why wait? Visit our portal and apply now!


Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Irish citizens, Singaporean citizens, Slovak citizens, Turkish citizens and Chinese citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa.