Egypt visa for Saudi Arabia citizens: New Updates

Saudi Arabia and Egypt are neighboring countries separated only by the Red Sea, making travel between the two destinations convenient and popular. Many foreign residents living in Saudi Arabia under a valid Saudi Iqama (residence permit) plan trips to Egypt for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

However, holding a Saudi Iqama does not automatically grant visa-free entry to Egypt. Visa requirements depend primarily on the traveler’s nationality, not solely on Saudi residency status. This guide explains, in a clear and practical way, how Saudi Iqama holders can legally and efficiently obtain an Egypt visa.

Egypt visa requirements for Saudi Arabia citizens

Egypt visa requirements for Saudi Arabia citizens

Do foreign residents in Saudi Arabia holding an Iqama need an Egypt visa?

Yes. Most Saudi Iqama holders require a visa to enter Egypt, even if they legally reside in Saudi Arabia.

While Egypt provides certain visa facilitation options for GCC residents, eligibility is determined by:

  • The passport nationality
  • The validity of the Saudi Iqama
  • The purpose and duration of travel

In practice, the Egypt tourist e-Visa is the most reliable option for eligible nationalities, while visa on arrival is only available to a limited group of travelers.

Types of Egypt visa for Saudi Iqama holders

Saudi Iqama holders may apply for different types of Egypt visas depending on their nationality and travel purpose.

Tourist e-Visa

Available to eligible nationalities residing in Saudi Arabia

  • Apply online before travel
  • Stay duration: Up to 30 days
  • Entry options: Single-entry or multiple-entry

Eliminates the need to visit the Egyptian embassy

Visa on arrival

Available only to specific nationalities holding:

  • A valid passport
  • A Saudi Iqama valid for at least 6 months
  • Issued at major airports such as Cairo

Travelers must confirm eligibility before departure, as airlines may deny boarding

Business visa

  • Required for conferences, meetings, or commercial activities
  • Requires an invitation letter from an Egyptian company
  • Typically processed through the Egyptian embassy or authorized channels

Transit visa

Required if:

  • Transit exceeds 48 hours, or
  • The traveler leaves the airport transit zone

Long-term visas (work or study)

  • Issued through the Egyptian embassy
  • Requires employer or educational sponsorship

Important: Saudi Iqama holders should always verify visa eligibility based on passport nationality, not residency alone.

Types of Egypt visa for Saudi Iqama holders

Different types of visas to Egypt for Saudi Iqama holders

Egypt visa requirements for Saudi Arabia citizens

Saudi Arabia citizens planning to travel to Egypt must meet basic visa and entry requirements, even though the process is generally straightforward. Below are the key conditions to enter Egypt:

  • Valid Saudi passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
  • Visa requirement: Saudi citizens can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an Egypt e-Visa online for tourism or short visits.
  • Completed application form: Required if applying online or through the consulate.
  • Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight booking and confirmed hotel reservation.
  • Proof of funds: Sufficient financial means to cover the stay.
  • Passport-size photo: For visa processing, if required.

Saudi nationals should verify any recent changes in entry rules, especially related to health or security protocols, before travel.

Egypt visa requirements for Saudi Arabia citizens

Egyptian visa rules for citizens of Saudi Arabia

How to apply for an Egypt visa from Saudi Arabia

The process of applying for an Egypt e-visa from Saudi Arabia is fast and simple and only takes a few minutes through Egypt Immigration Services.

The process can be done at the applicant's home or in their office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Citizens of Saudi Arabia can start to obtain an Egypt visa for Saudi Iqama holders by filling out a simple online form.

For the first step, you will choose the type of e-visa that you want to apply for, as well as the processing time for your e-visa.

For the second step, you need to provide some personal information, including:

  • Full name, as it appears in your passport
  • Date of birth
  • Nationality
  • Passport number
  • Dates of travel to Egypt

This information must be checked carefully to ensure that all details are correct.

Following that, you can pay the e-visa processing fee through a secure online system and submit the application form.

In the last step, you will get a confirmation of your e-visa application via your email address. Remember to check your email regularly to update the status of your application.

A total fee to get an Egypt e-visa from Saudi Arabia

When applying for an Egypt e-Visa, applicants may either submit their application directly through the official Egyptian government e-Visa portal or choose to use a third-party visa service provider for assistance. The total cost depends on which option you select.

Below is a transparent breakdown of official government fees and additional service fees that may apply.

Official Government fees

These are the fixed fees set by the Egyptian government and apply to all applicants, regardless of nationality.

e-Visa Type Official Government Fee
Single-Entry e-Visa USD 25
Multiple-Entry e-Visa USD 60
  • These fees are mandatory
  • They are non-refundable
  • They apply whether you apply directly or through a service provider

Service fees

If you choose to apply through a visa assistance or processing service, an additional service fee will be charged. This fee is not imposed by the Egyptian government and varies depending on the provider and processing speed.

Service type Estimated processing time Service fee (Approx.) Estimated total cost*
Standard service 3–5 business days USD 50–80 USD 75–105
Urgent service 1–2 business days USD 80–100 USD 105–160
Super-Urgent service Within 24 hours USD 100–130 USD 125–190

*Estimated total cost = Government fee + Service fee

Service fees are determined by the visa provider and may differ based on nationality, workload, or peak travel seasons.

A total fee to get an Egypt e-visa from Saudi Arabia and payment method

Cost of Egypt e-visa from Saudi Arabia and how to pay

Tips to apply Egypt e-visa for Saudi citizens

Based on common application issues observed among GCC residents:

  • Confirm eligibility early: Do not assume visa on arrival is allowed based on residency alone
  • Apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel
  • Ensure passport & Iqama validity exceeds 6 months
  • Use accurate personal details exactly as shown on official documents
  • Carry printed copies of your visa, hotel booking, and return ticket
  • Rely on official or verified sources for updates on visa regulations

In conclusion

Traveling to Egypt as a Saudi Iqama holder is straightforward when the correct visa pathway is chosen. While Saudi residency provides certain conveniences, visa eligibility is determined primarily by nationality. For most travelers, the Egypt e-Visa remains the safest and most efficient option.

By understanding the requirements, applying early, and verifying eligibility through official channels, Saudi Iqama holders can enjoy a smooth entry process and explore Egypt’s historic landmarks, vibrant cities, and unique culture with confidence.

Egypt Visa Requirements for Saudi Arabia Citizens FAQs

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