Saudi Arabia Launches Instant E-Visa in 2026: Effortless Travel for Global Tourists with Visa by Profile

Published on November 21, 2025

Saudi Arabia is rolling out a new instant e-visa system that promises to simplify travel for visitors worldwide. Starting in 2026, eligible travelers will be able to obtain a tourist visa in just minutes using their Visa card and passport, eliminating the need for lengthy embassy visits or complicated paperwork.

The new system, known as Visa by Profile, is designed to attract high-value visitors while providing a seamless, traveler-friendly experience. Through this innovative approach, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its position as a must-visit destination for both culture enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.

How the Instant E-Visa System Works

The process is straightforward. Visa cardholders simply enter their passport and card details into the official platform. The system cross-verifies the financial profile with the issuing bank to ensure eligibility. Once approved, travelers receive their e-visa instantly, ready for use on arrival.

This initiative reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing Vision 2030 objectives, which aim to expand tourism and make the country more accessible to international visitors. Simplifying visa procedures is a key step toward welcoming millions of tourists every year.

Benefits for Travelers

For global travelers, this is a game-changing development. The instant e-visa reduces waiting time, streamlines planning, and allows for flexible itineraries. Whether visiting for leisure, culture, or luxury experiences, tourists can now organize trips quickly without worrying about bureaucratic delays.

Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. From the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Diriyah to the pristine beaches along the Red Sea, visitors can explore ancient heritage and modern attractions in one trip. This new visa system encourages spontaneous travel and extended stays, enhancing the overall tourist experience.

Who Can Use the Instant E-Visa

Initially, the service is available to Visa cardholders worldwide. Travelers must meet eligibility criteria, including valid travel documents and financial verification. Authorities plan to expand eligibility to other cardholders in the future, making the system more inclusive while maintaining high security standards.

The process is fully digital, which reduces human error and ensures smooth verification. By providing quick approval, Saudi Arabia is setting a global standard for convenience and efficiency in tourism.

Travel Planning Tips for Tourists

1. Check Your Eligibility: Ensure your Visa card is accepted before applying.
2. Apply Early: Although the e-visa is instant, early application helps in peak travel seasons.
3. Keep Documents Ready: Have your passport, travel itinerary, and financial details on hand.
4. Plan Multi-Destination Trips: Saudi Arabia offers deserts, mountains, cities, and coastlines—plan accordingly.
5. Embrace Local Culture: The e-visa opens doors to unique experiences, including traditional markets, cultural festivals, and heritage sites.

Exploring Saudi Arabia Made Easier

The instant e-visa not only simplifies entry but also enhances the travel experience. Visitors can move freely between cities, explore deserts, mountains, and coastal regions, and immerse themselves in Saudi Arabia’s rich history and modern innovations.

From Riyadh’s cultural hubs to the Red Sea’s underwater adventures, this visa system ensures that tourists spend less time on formalities and more time discovering the Kingdom. Luxury travelers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts all benefit from a smoother, more flexible journey.

Regional Tourism and Future Expansion

Saudi Arabia’s move aligns with a broader Gulf trend to simplify travel across the region. Other countries, such as the UAE and Bahrain, are piloting fast-track and digital visa systems, which may eventually integrate with Saudi Arabia’s programs. This makes cross-border travel in the Gulf easier for international tourists and encourages multi-country visits.

Final Thoughts

The Saudi Arabia instant e-visa represents a new era in tourism. By combining technology, efficiency, and convenience, it allows visitors worldwide to plan trips with confidence and ease. The Visa by Profile system is expected to launch in 2026, opening the door to seamless travel and unforgettable experiences.

Tourists can look forward to exploring Saudi Arabia’s rich culture, heritage sites, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking natural landscapes, all while enjoying the simplicity of instant visa approval. This traveler-focused approach positions Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for global tourism.