Saudi Arabia Launches First Instant Tourist Visas – December 2025 Major Update
Saudi Arabia has officially launched its first-ever Instant Tourist Visa, marking one of the biggest travel policy upgrades in the country’s modern history. This breakthrough December 2025 update enables eligible visitors to obtain a tourist visa within seconds, without lengthy forms, embassy visits, or approval delays. With this bold step, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself among the world’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, attract millions of new travelers, and support its Vision 2030 goal of welcoming over 150 million visitors annually.
This new visa system transforms the global travel experience for tourists who want to explore Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, futuristic cities, cultural festivals, and religious landmarks. The update not only simplifies arrival procedures but also reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to opening its doors wider to international travelers while ensuring a safe, modern, and seamless entry experience.
The introduction of the Instant Tourist Visa includes updated requirements, expanded eligibility, a simplified online method, new fee details, and fresh December 2025 improvements that make travel easier than before.
Is Saudi visa open for Pakistani in 2025?
Yes, Saudi visas remain open for Pakistani citizens in 2025 under multiple categories, including tourist, visit, transit, and Umrah visas. With the introduction of the Instant Tourist Visa System, eligible Pakistani travelers—especially those holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, or GCC residency—can receive faster approval. Regular visit and family visas continue normally through the Saudi visa portal and authorized centers.
What is the new update of Jawazat 2025?
The latest Jawazat 2025 update focuses on digital transformation, faster visa processing, and enhanced immigration controls. Jawazat has expanded smart e-services for residency, visa extensions, entry permits, and Umrah passes. In December 2025, Jawazat also aligned its system with the new Instant Tourist Visa rollout, enabling automatic verification, biometric matching, and quicker airport clearance for international visitors.
What is the new rule for Saudi Umrah visa 2025?
In 2025, Saudi Arabia introduced updated Umrah visa rules to streamline travel and improve crowd management. The Umrah visa is now valid for 90 days, and pilgrims can travel to any city in the Kingdom instead of being limited to Makkah and Madinah. However, Umrah cannot be performed during the Hajj period, as announced under the new 2025 regulations. Digital permits and mandatory insurance also remain part of the updated requirements.
Can Pakistani get a Saudi visit visa?
Yes, Pakistani nationals can apply for a Saudi visit visa in 2025 through the official visa portal, Saudi embassy channels, or approved visa centers. Family visit visas, single-entry visas, and multiple-entry visit visas are available. Eligibility for faster processing increases if the applicant holds a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa. The new instant visa system may also apply to certain Pakistani residents depending on their travel documentation.
What Is Saudi Arabia’s Instant Tourist Visa System?
Saudi Arabia’s Instant Tourist Visa is a fully automated digital visa system that issues a tourist visa in real time. Instead of waiting hours or days, applicants receive a verified travel visa instantly after entering their basic information and passport details.
This system has been introduced under the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Interior, combining advanced digital identity verification, AI-based screening, and automated processing to approve visas without manual review.
The system is available 24/7 and is accessible through the official tourism platform, the unified e-visa portal, and select airline and airport counters.
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Why Saudi Arabia Introduced Instant Tourist Visas in December 2025
Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming a major global tourism hub. Since the launch of the Vision 2030 plan, the Kingdom has built massive tourism attractions including NEOM, The Line, Diriyah Gate, Red Sea Global resorts, AlUla’s heritage valley, entertainment megaprojects, and world-class sports facilities.
To support this expansion, the government recognized the need to simplify visa processes for millions of tourists.
The new Instant Tourist Visa aims to:
- Boost international tourism numbers
- Encourage spontaneous and last-minute travelers
- Increase global connectivity and flight occupancy
- Enhance Saudi Arabia’s image as a modern destination
- Support economic diversification beyond oil
- Reduce paperwork and waiting periods for visitors
The December 2025 update is part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to compete with other tourism giants like the UAE, Qatar, Singapore, and Thailand by making travel effortless and efficient.
Who Can Apply for the Instant Tourist Visa?
Saudi Arabia has expanded the list of eligible nationalities for its automatic visa program. The Instant Tourist Visa is currently available for:
H2: 1. Citizens of Eligible Countries
Nationals from visa-friendly countries including Europe, GCC, North America, and several Asian regions.
H2: 2. Travelers with Valid US, UK, or Schengen Visas
If a traveler holds a valid and used visa from the US, UK, or Schengen area, they may qualify instantly.
H2: 3. GCC Residents
Residents with approved professions and valid residence permits can receive the visa instantly.
H2: 4. Travelers Using Approved Airlines
Some airlines have integrated the instant visa system directly into their check-in process, enabling visitors to obtain a visa while booking a flight.
Saudi Arabia is expected to further expand the eligible country list in 2026.
How the Instant Visa Works – Step-by-Step Process
The system is designed to be extremely simple:
H2: Step 1 – Visit the Official E-Visa Portal
Travellers visit the official Saudi e-visa website or the tourism app.
H2: Step 2 – Enter Passport Information
Applicants input their full name, nationality, passport number, expiry date, and travel dates.
H2: Step 3 – Upload a Digital Photo
A quick passport-style photo is required. Many travelers can use a live camera photo.
H2: Step 4 – Automatic Background and Eligibility Check
Within seconds, the system verifies identity and eligibility using advanced automated screening.
H2: Step 5 – Make Payment
Visa fees can be paid using debit/credit cards or digital payment options.
H2: Step 6 – Visa Issued Instantly
Once approved, the visa is generated and emailed instantly in PDF format.
Most applications are completed in under 1 minute.
Visa Validity and Allowed Activities
Saudi Arabia’s Instant Tourist Visa allows travelers to:
- Visit for tourism
- Attend events, concerts, and festivals
- Explore historical and cultural attractions
- Perform Umrah (except during Hajj season)
- Visit family and friends
- Stay in hotels, resorts, and tourist destinations
Visa validity typically includes:
- One-year multiple entry
- 90 days stay per visit
These conditions may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and visa category.
December 2025 Updates and New Features
The latest December 2025 upgrade includes several new enhancements:
H3: 1. Smart Immigration Gates
Visitors with instant visas can use automated immigration gates at major airports, reducing wait times.
H3: 2. Integrated Airline Check-In
Some airlines now allow passengers to receive the visa automatically at the time of booking.
H3: 3. Biometric Verification
Facial recognition technology improves security and reduces manual inspections.
H3: 4. Travel Insurance Included
All instant visas now come with mandatory medical and travel insurance.
H3: 5. Multi-Entry Access for Events
Travelers attending global events like Riyadh Season, Formula 1, and Esports World Cup can enjoy repeated entry without reapplying.
Why This System Is a Game-Changer for Global Travel
Saudi Arabia’s new instant visa system stands out for several reasons:
H2: 1. Faster Than UAE and Qatar
A visa approval time of seconds makes Saudi Arabia one of the quickest in the region.
H2: 2. Ideal for Last-Minute Travelers
Tourists can plan spontaneous trips without bureaucracy.
H2: 3. Attracts Millions of New Visitors
The government expects a major tourism surge in 2026.
H2: 4. Boosts Hospitality, Airlines, and Events
Hotels, restaurants, malls, and attractions benefit directly.
H2: 5. Supports Vision 2030 Goals
Tourism revenue becomes a major pillar alongside energy and industry.
Cost of the Instant Tourist Visa in December 2025
Visa fees include:
- Visa processing fee
- Insurance fee
- Digital service fee
Exact prices may vary depending on nationality and insurance provider, but most applicants can expect approximate total fees similar to the standard e-visa price range.
Important Rules Travelers Must Know
Even though the visa is issued instantly, tourists must follow Saudi Arabia’s travel and cultural rules:
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
- Travel insurance is mandatory
- Overstaying leads to fines
- Visa cannot be used for work
- Umrah is allowed but not during Hajj season
- Some restricted areas require special permits
Saudi authorities have emphasized responsible tourism and cultural respect.
Impact on Tourism and the Global Travel Industry
Saudi Arabia has hosted record-breaking tourism events in the past 3 years, including:
- Riyadh Season
- Jeddah Season
- AlUla cultural festivals
- Major boxing events
- International football matches
- Formula 1 Grand Prix
- Esports World Cup
The Instant Tourist Visa will further:
- Increase event attendance
- Encourage multi-country Gulf trips
- Support tour operators
- Strengthen airline networks
- Promote winter tourism
Global tourism leaders have praised Saudi Arabia’s move as “one of the fastest digital visa transformations in the world.”
Which Airports Support the Instant Visa System?
The system is fully active at major international airports including:
- Riyadh King Khalid International Airport
- Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport
- Dammam King Fahd International Airport
- Madinah Airport
- NEOM Bay Airport (expanding soon)
More airports will adopt smart gates in 2026.
How This Benefits Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, and Asian Travelers
Millions of South Asian travelers visit Saudi Arabia annually for:
- Tourism
- Events
- Umrah
- Family visits
The instant visa simplifies the process for eligible residents and professionals, especially those holding GCC residencies or US/UK/Schengen visas.
It also benefits expatriates living in the Middle East who frequently travel across the region.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Vision for 2026 and Beyond
The new visa system aligns with the broader national objective:
- Make Saudi Arabia one of the top 10 global travel destinations
- Develop world-class attractions
- Modernize airports and transportation
- Introduce new cultural and entertainment zones
- Host mega international events
The country is rapidly evolving into a tourism powerhouse, and the instant visa is a crucial step forward.
Check Also: New UAE Visa Rule 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Instant Visa Approval
Conclusion – Saudi Arabia Launches First Instant Tourist Visas – December 2025
Saudi Arabia’s launch of the Instant Tourist Visa is a landmark milestone that redefines global travel convenience. With real-time processing, no embassy visits, smart gates, multiple entries, and simplified access to world-class attractions, the Kingdom has made it easier than ever for tourists to explore its rich heritage and modern wonders.
This December 2025 update marks the beginning of a new era in Saudi tourism—one that promises speed, efficiency, and unmatched hospitality for millions of visitors worldwide.
