All country guides
- Capital
- Riyadh (RUH)
- Dialing Code
- + 966
- Time Zone
- UTC / GMT +3 hours
- Language
- Arabic
- Best Time to Go
- November – February (winter)
- Currency
- Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR)
Travel Tips
- As this is a predominately Islamic country, dress should always be conservative: men should wear long pants and shirts and women should keep their arms and legs covered. In some areas, women may be required to wear the abaya and niqab (black robes and veil)
- Eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan is prohibited during daylight hours
- The official weekend is Friday and Saturday
- Saudi Arabia has a very mild winter, with some rainfalls. During the summer, temperatures can rise to 50°C
- All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Bottled water is available
- English is widely understood
- Religious police patrols rigorously enforce codes of behaviour and dress prescribed by Islamic law and visitors should respect these
Last updated 7 October 2026
Visa Guide
Foreign Representation in South Africa
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mission
711 Duncan St, Hatfield, Pretoria
Telephone: 012 362 4233
Email: zaemb@mofa.gov.sa
Website: za.saudiembassy.sa
Public Holidays
2026
February: 22
March: 20 - 22
May: 26 - 29
September: 23
Visa Requirements
Visas are required by South African passport holders.
- Tourist visas are available on arrival or an e-visa can be applied for: ksavisa.sa
Visa Processing Time
Up to 3 working days
Visa Validity
The multiple entry visa is valid for a year from its issue date. The visa allows for stays of up to 90 days
Visa Cost
E-visa / Visa on arrival: SAR 535
Entry Requirements
- Passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Saudi Arabia, including accommodations, food, and transportation expenses
For VOA:
- Once you arrive at your destination’s airport or entry point in Saudi, use the self-service devices (KIOSK) or go directly to the passport control office to apply for your visa on arrival
Health / Vaccinations
Compulsory:
None
Recommended Travel Vaccines:
Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio
Malaria Risk
Pilgrims travelling for Hajj/Umrah:
Compulsory: Yellow Fever, Meningococcal Meningitis
South African Representative Abroad
South African Embassy
7184 Mohammed Al Abadry Street, Al Khuzama District, Riyadh
Telephone: +966 (11) 482 8515
E-mail: riyadh.info@dirco.gov.za
Website: dirco1.azurewebsites.net/saudi_arabia