For many years, Saudi Arabia was one of the least accessible countries in the world for international tourists. Known for its religious significance and vast oil reserves, the Kingdom had long focused on business and religious travel, while tourism remained limited to religious pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina.

But that’s all changed.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made a bold pivot to welcome international tourists — and the transformation has been both dramatic and intentional. So, is Saudi Arabia tourist friendly today? In short: Yes — and increasingly so. Here’s what changed, why, and what you need to know before you visit.

Saudi Arabia's Tourism History: Once Closed, Now Open

Historically, Saudi Arabia issued visas primarily for religious pilgrimages (Hajj and Umrah) or business purposes. For leisure travelers, the door was mostly closed. This restriction wasn't just logistical — it was cultural and political. The Kingdom's conservative laws and limited infrastructure for tourists made it a challenging destination for all but a few.

That changed in September 2019, when Saudi Arabia launched its first-ever tourist visa program. For the first time in history, visitors from more than 50 countries — including the United States, Canada, the UK, much of Europe, and parts of Asia — could apply for an eVisa online or upon arrival.

This move was part of Vision 2030, a national initiative to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and reduce its dependence on oil. One of the cornerstones of this strategy is expanding the tourism sector — and that meant opening up the country in unprecedented ways.

What's Driving the Change?

Saudi Arabia's rapid tourism development is fueled by multiple goals:

  • Economic Diversification: Reducing reliance on oil by investing in hospitality, travel, and entertainment.
  • Cultural Engagement: Showcasing Saudi Arabia's rich heritage, from ancient archaeological sites to bustling souks and stunning desert landscapes.
  • International Image: Projecting a modernized, reform-minded image to the world.
  • Job Creation: Building a robust tourism industry helps create employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.

As a result, the government has invested billions into developing luxury resorts, heritage sites, entertainment zones, and infrastructure projects, including NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and AlUla — an ancient city with stunning rock-carved tombs, now open to the public.

What's It Like Visiting Saudi Arabia Today?

Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia in 2025 will find a country that's rapidly evolving. Major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar offer a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional culture. The government has relaxed certain social restrictions, such as:

  • Unmarried couples (including foreigners) can now share hotel rooms
  • Women can travel without a male guardian and drive cars
  • Modest Western clothing is widely accepted (though respectful attire is still encouraged, especially outside urban centers)

Visitors can explore stunning deserts, ancient ruins like Madain Saleh, Red Sea coastlines perfect for diving, and vibrant markets full of spices, textiles, and handcrafts.

While the Kingdom still enforces certain conservative laws — such as alcohol prohibition and modest dress codes at religious sites — the overall environment is increasingly welcoming, safe, and organized for tourists.

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Saudi Arabia is widely considered safe for international visitors. Crime rates are low, especially violent crime. The government has placed a strong emphasis on tourist security and is investing in police training, signage, and English-language support across major destinations.

As with any international travel, visitors should respect local customs, obey the law, and do some research before arriving — but travelers often report feeling secure, well-received, and surprised by the warm hospitality of locals.

Passport and Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

If you're a U.S. passport holder and planning to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, here’s what you need to know:

Passport Requirements

  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry.
  • You must have at least one blank visa page.

Tourist Visa Requirements

U.S. travelers need a Saudi eVisa, which allows:

  • Multiple entries
  • A stay of up to 90 days per visit
  • Validity of 1 year

You can apply online or upon arrival, but advance planning is highly recommended. Applicants must provide:

  • A passport-style photo
  • A valid passport scan
  • Payment of the visa fee (approx. $140 USD)

Note: Travel for Hajj or Umrah during certain religious periods still requires a special visa and is subject to separate rules.

Need Help Applying? We've Got You Covered.

At USPassport.com, we help simplify the Saudi visa process with expert support, fast processing, and personalized guidance. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime desert tour or heading to Jeddah for a cultural escape, we’ll make sure your paperwork is complete and accurate.

Our Saudi visa services include:

  • Application guidance for Tourist, Business, or Work Visas
  • Document review to prevent delays or rejections
  • Expedited options for last-minute travel
  • Dedicated support staff to answer questions quickly and clearly

We also offer full passport services if you need to renew your passport or update your name or photo before applying.

Conclusion: Saudi Arabia Is Tourist Ready — And Worth the Trip

Saudi Arabia is no longer the closed-off destination it once was. Today, it's one of the most ambitious tourism projects in the world, rich with ancient history, natural wonders, and unexpected hospitality. While it's still evolving, the Kingdom is well on its way to becoming a top-tier global travel destination.

If you're curious about visiting this unique and dynamic country, now is the time to go — and USPassport.com is here to help make the journey stress-free.

Click here to start your visa application with us today and discover the new face of Saudi Arabia!

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