Saudi Arabia Visa Eligibility for Citizens of Iran

As we move through 2026, the travel landscape between Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has entered a new era of formalization and cooperation. For Iranian citizens, visiting the Kingdom—primarily for the sacred Umrah pilgrimage or for burgeoning business and diplomatic exchanges—is governed by specific entry protocols. While the Kingdom continues to expand its digital services, travelers from Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, and other cities currently navigate a system that emphasizes secure consular processing, with modern electronic shortcuts available for those who meet specific international criteria.

2026 Entry Pathways: Consular and Digital Exceptions

For the majority of travelers from Iran, entry into Saudi Arabia is managed through two primary channels based on their residency status and international travel history.

• The Consular Route: This remains the most common method for Iranian passport holders. Applications are typically processed through Saudi diplomatic missions or designated visa service centers. This path involves a thorough review of documentation and the collection of biometric data to ensure a secure travel experience.

• The Digital Exception Pathway: In an effort to streamline travel for global frequent flyers, Iran citizens who hold a valid and used tourist or business visa from the United States, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen Area country are eligible to apply for a Saudi electronic visa (e-visa). This also applies to those who hold permanent residency in these regions or valid residency in GCC countries.

• Travel Scope: Approved visas under these categories allow for leisure tourism, family visits, attendance at professional events, and the performance of Umrah.

Spiritual Travel: Umrah Guidelines for Iranian Citizens

The performance of Umrah is the primary reason for many Iranian nationals to visit the Kingdom. In 2026, the process for pilgrims has become more organized:

• Umrah via Authorized Groups: Most Iranian pilgrims arrange their journey through official Hajj and Umrah organizations, which manage the visa process as part of a comprehensive package including transportation and accommodation.

• Individual Umrah (E-Visa Exception): Iranian citizens qualifying for the e-visa exception (via US/UK/Schengen credentials) can use their tourist e-visa to perform Umrah independently. This allows for personalized itineraries outside of traditional group structures.

• Hajj Season Notice: Performing Hajj requires a specific, dedicated Hajj visa managed through official national quotas. Standard tourist or e-visa exception permits are not valid for the Hajj season.

Professional Verification and All-Inclusive Pricing

To ensure that every application meets the Kingdom's 2026 security standards and that your mandatory health insurance is correctly activated, we provide a dedicated verification service. This prevents administrative errors that could lead to delays at the border or issues during boarding.

• Standard Eligibility Review: The total all-inclusive fee for our professional service (for those eligible via the digital pathway) is 175 dollars. This final price encompasses the official government visa fee, the 2026 mandatory health insurance policy, and our manual document audit. Most authorizations are finalized within 3 to 5 business days.

• Express Priority Service: For travelers with an urgent departure, an expedited pathway is available for 225 dollars, prioritizing your file for a response within 24 business hours.

Specialized Entry: Employment and Residency

It is vital for citizens of Iran to note that tourist and electronic visas do not grant the right to engage in paid labor. If your goal is professional relocation or a long-term contract in the Kingdom, a specific Consular Work Visa must be obtained through a local Saudi sponsor. This process requires the verification of academic and medical records. We recommend a preliminary check of your credentials to ensure they meet the latest 2026 professional standards before initiating the embassy process.

Essential Requirements for Iranian Applicants

To confirm your entry eligibility, please ensure the following essentials are ready:

1. Passport: A valid Iran passport with at least six months of validity beyond your arrival date.

2. Supporting Credentials: A copy of your valid US, UK, or Schengen visa (if applying through the digital exception rule).

3. Digital Assets: A clear biometric photograph and a valid email address for receiving your official PDF authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Iran citizens get a visa on arrival in 2026?

Only if you meet the specific criteria of holding a valid and used US, UK, or Schengen visa. Otherwise, you must obtain your visa through the appropriate consular channels before departure.

Does the 175 dollar fee include medical insurance?

Yes. Every visa issued for entry into Saudi Arabia in 2026 requires government-approved health insurance. This is fully covered in our 175 dollar standard service fee for eligible applicants.

Is the e-visa valid for all Saudi cities?

Yes. Once authorized, Iranian citizens are free to travel throughout the Kingdom for the approved purposes, including the holy cities for Umrah.