Off to Saudi Arabia? This guide covers the requirements for Indians applying for a Saudi Arabia visa from Dubai.
Indians are scattered in every corner of the world. Saudi Arabia is one of the top countries where Indians have the highest share of the population. Thanks to its new seamless visa processing structure. Earlier, Indians or any other nationality were allowed to visit Saudi Arabia only for religious or work purposes. And why not, Saudi Arabia has offered abundant opportunities being the world’s largest exporter of oil and petroleum. But now it has opened its doors for tourism and leisure, and one can easily apply for a KSA tourist visa online.
If you are interested in setting on a beautiful journey, here is a comprehensive guide to obtaining a Saudi Arabia visa from Dubai for Indians.
Do Indians need visas for Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Indians need to apply for a specific Saudi Arabia visa as per their purpose of visit. You can contact the nearest visa application center or approach an online authorized visa agent who can guide you through the complete process. If you have understood the basic Saudi Arabia visa guidelines, you can fill out the application form online by yourself.
A Saudi visa is a document, better say permit, that allows the holder to visit, explore, and stay in the country till the valid time. Several nationals do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. However, India does not fall in this visa-exempt category and thus its citizens have to apply for a Saudi visa beforehand.
Is there a Saudi tourist visa for Indians?
Saudi Arabia has embraced the new changes by welcoming millions of travelers since 2019. Amongst its list of 63 countries that can apply for a tourist visa, Indians are also included.
What are the different types of Saudi Arabia visas for Indian passport holders?
Depending on the reason for the visit, there are various types of Saudi Arabia visas. Some of the common ones are:
Saudi Tourist Visa: This visa allows Indian citizens to visit the KSA for tourism or leisure purposes. The visa holder can explore the historic sights, attend festivals and events, and even meet their close ones. It is usually valid for 90 days.
Saudi Business Visa: This visa is for Indian citizens who are flying to Saudi Arabia for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or formal events. It can be a single-entry or multiple-entry business visa.
Saudi Work Visa: This visa permits the holder to have legal and secured employment in Saudi Arabia. With this visa, one can work and live in the country.
Hajj or Umrah Visa: Saudi Arabia holds a religious significance as it is the birthplace of Islam. Indian citizens who are looking forward to going on a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia have to apply for this visa. These visas are applied exclusively for religious purposes and cannot be used for any other reason. While Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, Hajj has a specific duration.
Can Indians get a Saudi eVisa from Dubai?
Saudi Arabia eVisa is available for only selected nationalities including GCC nationals. Indians, who have Schengen, UK, or US visas can go for eVisa.
How Indians can apply for a Saudi Visa from Dubai?
Fortunately, the process of acquiring a Saudi visa is relatively straightforward and fuss-free. Here are the basic steps to apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai for Indians:
– Fill out a simple application form with accuracy. Do not let any mistakes get your visa rejected. The form asks for details about name of the applicant, mother’s name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, gender, marital status, religion, qualification, profession, home and commercial address, contact number, passport number, purpose of travel, duration of stay, mode of payment, etc.
– Gather all the required documents as per your visa type. For example, if you are applying for a Saudi business visa from Dubai, you will have to submit invitation letter along with other documents.
– Once you have forwarded these documents to the visa agents, pay the required fees.
– The team at the visa agency will run through your form and documents to make it an error-free visa application. It is then forwarded to the respective Consulate or Embassy for processing further.
As the visa is approved, the applicant receives the visa in their registered mail ids. Meanwhile, it is possible to check the status of a Saudi visa online.
Who is eligible for a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa?
To get a Saudi Arabia visa, you must fulfill the following criteria:
- You must have completed 18 years or more to apply for a Saudi visa.
- You must have a valid Indian passport.
- You must be a valid visa holder for the USA, United Kingdom, or a Schengen country. This visa must remain active and have been utilized.
- You should not have any ongoing criminal case or background.
You must verify the current eligibility criteria as they are subject to change.
What documents are required for Saudi Arabia Visas for Indian Citizens?
One of the major reasons of Saudi visa rejections is incomplete documentation. If you have ever traveled internationally, you would have realized that there is a ream of documents that you have to furnish for the application. Here are the standard documents:
- Passport: As per the Saudi visa department, your passport should have a 6-month minimum validity. Plus, the passport should have at least two blank pages facing each other.
- Digital Photo: Submitting a passport-sized photograph is one of the crucial elements to add to your application. It is necessary to follow the specific requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Get travel insurance from an authorized provider. This will help cover expenses for medical emergencies or unforeseen situations.
- Proof of Sufficient Finances: Show the Embassy that you are in strong financial condition through your bank statements and can self-sustain your stay in Saudi Arabia.
- Accommodation Proof: Submit a document that provides proof of where you will live during the time of your stay in Saudi Arabia. This could be hotel reservation tickets or a sponsorship invitation letter.
- Flight Tickets: Submit a copy of your confirmed flight ticket, if necessary.
Rules for non-tourist visas, which is business or visit visa, can be complex. Business travelers usually need to provide company registration proof, an invitation letter from the sponsor, and a recommendation letter.
With these strict documents, business and visit visas can be used for multiple entries in Saudi Arabia. As with all visa requirements, the terms and conditions are subject to change; contact your local Saudi Arabia visa agents for the most up-to-date information.
What is the Saudi visa photo size for Indian citizens?
The perfect Saudi Arabia visa photo size is 2 inches x 2 inches (5cm x 5cm). The background should be white.
Are there special requirements for minors belonging to India?
To apply for a Saudi visa a minor Indian citizen who is under 18 years old, submit a consent letter from both parents. It should also include parents’ identification documents. Do submit the minor’s birth certificate.
What is the processing time for Saudi Arabia visas for Indians?
Saudi Arabia visit visa and business visa from Dubai takes at least 3 working days to process, so be sure to apply in plenty of time. The time may extend depending on the complexity of the situation or absence of proof/ supporting documents for visa application.
What if I overstay my Saudi visa?
The simple answer is never to overstay your visa. It is not like you would be found the next second your visa expires, but you will face consequences at the immigration control center while you exit. You might not be allowed to re-enter the country. So, don’t risk it; extend the visa as per the rules before it expires.
Is there a Saudi visa on arrival for Indians?
Unfortunately, India is not included in the list of 50 countries that are allowed visa-on-arrival facility.
Other things to Know for Obtaining a Saudi Visa as an Indian
Understanding all these requirements in one go can be challenging. Contact a well-reputed Saudi Arabia visa agent for a seamless visa application process. They make sure that you get it approved in one go. In case you are applying on your own, there can be chances that your application was denied. So, you can review the reason or seek clarification on what went wrong. Once you have assessed and evaluated the reason for Saudi visa rejection, reapply under guidance.
Before leaving, also know about the new Saudi stopover visa for Indians.
A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.
