Saudi Arabia ETA for UK Citizens - Everything You Need to Know (2026)

British citizens visiting Saudi Arabia can apply for the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). It is a new way for UK travellers to visit the Kingdom, and British travellers can also still apply for the electronic visa waiver (EVW).

This guide explains what the ETA is, what you can use it for (including Umrah), and what to sort out before you go.

What Is the Saudi ETA?

The ETA is an online travel authorisation from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for citizens of the United Kingdom. You apply on the official KSA Visa platform - there is no embassy visit. It lets you visit Saudi Arabia multiple times while it is valid.

What Can the ETA Be Used For?

Tourism - cities, historical sites, the Red Sea coast and the rest of the Kingdom.

See our guide: Can you do Umrah on the Saudi ETA?

Business - meetings and business visits. The ETA does not allow work.

Study and medical treatment - also covered.

The ETA cannot be used for work or for Hajj.

Key Details at a Glance

• Who: citizens of the United Kingdom.
• Valid for: 2 years (730 days) from when it is issued.
• Entries: multiple - you can visit more than once while it is valid.
• Stay: up to 180 days in total across the 730-day period.
• Processing: usually 1 to 3 working days.
• One per person: every traveller needs their own application, children included.
• Not for: work or Hajj.
• Insurance: not included - take out travel insurance.

ETA or Tourist E-Visa?

The Saudi tourist e-visa is still available too (GOV.UK). It is valid for 1 year with multiple entries, up to 90 days in total, and includes basic health insurance. The ETA lasts longer (2 years, with up to 180 days in total across the 730-day period) but does not include health insurance. Both can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season.

Before You Travel

Passport: must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Saudi Arabia.

Already have a visa? GOV.UK says visas issued before the ETA was introduced stay valid under their original conditions and dates.

Umrah vaccine: Umrah pilgrims need a valid certificate of vaccination against meningitis ACWY, at least 10 days before arriving.

Travelling overland: if you plan to cross by road, for example over the Bahrain causeway, check your authorisation allows it before you travel.

Family and Group Applications

Every traveller needs their own ETA, including children. There is no family or group ETA - each one is linked to that person's passport. When a family travels together, we can do all the applications together so the details match.

Good to Know

Previous travel to Israel: GOV.UK says you may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows you have travelled to, or were born in, Israel.

Customs: alcohol and pork products are illegal to bring into Saudi Arabia, and some medicines need approval. Check GOV.UK's full list before you pack.