UK ETA for Saudi Citizens: Complete Guide 2026

Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom share a longstanding partnership spanning trade, education, and cultural ties. Under Saudi Vision 2030, outbound tourism from the Kingdom has surged, and the UK remains one of the most popular destinations for Saudi travellers seeking world-class education, medical treatment, business opportunities, and leisure experiences. Since February 2024, Saudi citizens have been required to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. This complete guide covers everything Saudi nationals need to know about the UK ETA in 2026.

What Is the UK ETA and Why Do Saudi Citizens Need It?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital pre-travel screening requirement introduced by the UK government to modernise and secure its border controls. It is not a visa but a mandatory authorisation that all visa-exempt nationals must obtain before entering or transiting through the United Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia, as a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member state, was included in the early rollout of the ETA programme. Saudi citizens have been required to hold a valid ETA since February 2024, making them among the first nationalities worldwide to need this digital authorisation.

Since 25 February 2026, full enforcement of the ETA system is in effect globally. Airlines are required to verify that all passengers hold a valid ETA before allowing them to board UK-bound flights. Any Saudi traveller without an approved ETA may be denied boarding.

The ETA programme is part of the UK’s broader strategy to move towards a fully digital immigration system. By screening travellers in advance, the Home Office can identify potential security concerns before passengers arrive at UK airports, streamlining the arrival process for the vast majority of legitimate travellers.

For Saudi nationals who have enjoyed visa-free access to the UK for short visits, the ETA adds a simple, low-cost digital step to the travel preparation process. It does not change the underlying entitlement to visit the UK without a visa.

UK ETA Requirements for Saudi Citizens

Saudi citizens must meet these requirements to obtain a UK ETA:

• Valid Saudi passport: Your passport must remain valid for the duration of your planned stay in the UK. A minimum of six months’ remaining validity is recommended.
• Digital facial photograph: A recent photo taken through the UK ETA app or uploaded via the website. The photograph must comply with UK ETA photo requirements. Female applicants who wear a hijab may keep their head covering in the photo, provided the face is clearly visible.
• Active email address: For receiving your ETA approval and any communications from the Home Office.
• Payment method: A debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or similar) to pay the application fee.
• Clean immigration record: No previous overstays, deportations, or immigration violations in the UK.
• No disqualifying criminal history: Certain serious offences may result in an ETA application being refused.

Saudi nationals who also hold citizenship of another country should apply using the passport they intend to travel with, as the ETA is linked directly to the passport number.

How to Apply for a UK ETA from Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step

The application process for the UK ETA is designed to be completed in minutes from the comfort of your home in Saudi Arabia. Follow these steps:

1. Access the application: Download the UK ETA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or visit the official GOV.UK ETA application page.
2. Create your account: Register with your email address and verify it using the code sent to your inbox.
3. Scan your passport: Use your smartphone’s NFC reader to scan the chip in your Saudi passport. Place the phone flat against the data page and hold steady until the scan completes. If NFC scanning is unavailable, you can type in your details manually.
4. Provide a photograph: Take a clear selfie using the in-app camera. Remove glasses and ensure even lighting. Religious head coverings such as hijab or ghutra are permitted provided the face is fully visible.
5. Answer screening questions: The application asks about your criminal record, immigration history, health conditions, and the purpose of your UK visit.
6. Review your application: Check all details carefully, particularly your passport number, name spelling, and date of birth.
7. Pay the fee: The ETA costs £16 (approximately SAR 75 at current exchange rates). Payment is taken by debit or credit card.
8. Submit and await approval: Most applications receive approval within minutes. In some cases, processing can take up to 3 working days.

For additional guidance, consult our detailed UK ETA application guide.

UK ETA Cost and Validity for Saudi Travellers

The UK ETA fee is £16 per person (approximately SAR 75). This fee applies to every applicant, including children and infants, who each need their own ETA. The UK government has announced plans to increase the fee to £20 during 2026, but the specific date of the increase has not yet been confirmed.

Once granted, the ETA is valid for 2 years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. During its validity, Saudi travellers can make unlimited trips to the UK, with each visit lasting up to 6 months.

This generous validity period makes the ETA particularly good value for Saudi nationals who travel to the UK regularly for business, family visits, medical appointments, or to check on children studying at British universities. The cost of a single ETA is minimal compared to the overall expense of international travel.

If you are travelling with family members, each person requires a separate ETA. Parents or legal guardians can apply on behalf of children. For more information about travelling with minors, see our UK ETA children and families guide.

Flying from Saudi Arabia to the UK: Routes and Airports

Saudi Arabia has excellent air links with the United Kingdom, with direct flights operating from multiple Saudi cities to several UK airports.

From Riyadh (RUH):

• Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) operates daily direct flights from King Khalid International Airport to London Heathrow. Flight time is approximately 7 hours.
• British Airways runs daily direct services from Riyadh to London Heathrow.
• flynas, the Saudi low-cost carrier, offers services to London and other UK destinations.

From Jeddah (JED):

• Saudia operates direct flights from King Abdulaziz International Airport to London Heathrow. Flight time is approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.
• British Airways also serves the Jeddah–London Heathrow route.

From Dammam (DMM):

• Direct services to the UK are more limited from King Fahd International Airport. Travellers from the Eastern Province often connect through Riyadh, Jeddah, or a Gulf hub such as Dubai, Doha, or Bahrain.

Connecting flights via Gulf hubs:

• Emirates via Dubai, Qatar Airways via Doha, and Gulf Air via Bahrain all offer convenient connections from Saudi cities to multiple UK airports.

Most direct Saudi–UK flights arrive at London Heathrow. Saudia flights typically use Terminal 4, while British Airways operates from Terminal 5. If connecting through Dubai or Doha, you may arrive at different terminals depending on the airline.

Saudi nationals planning their UK trip during the busy summer season (June to August) or school holidays should book flights well in advance, as these routes experience high demand during peak periods.

Do Saudi Citizens Need an ETA for Transit Through the UK?

Yes, Saudi citizens must hold a valid UK ETA for all types of transit through the United Kingdom, including:

• Airside transit: Remaining within the airport’s international zone without passing through immigration. An ETA is required.
• Landside transit: Passing through UK border control to change terminals, collect baggage, or stay overnight between connecting flights. An ETA is required.

This requirement is particularly relevant for Saudi travellers connecting through London to destinations in North America, the Caribbean, or Ireland. If your journey involves a stopover at a UK airport, ensure you have a valid ETA before departing.

For comprehensive transit information, see our UK ETA transit rules guide.

UK ETA Compared to Other Travel Authorisations

Saudi passport holders may be familiar with electronic travel authorisation systems from other countries they frequently visit. Here is how the UK ETA compares:

The UK ETA offers Saudi travellers a particularly generous stay allowance of up to 6 months per visit, which is far more than the 90-day limits of the US ESTA or upcoming EU ETIAS. This extended stay option is valuable for Saudi families who spend summers in the UK. For detailed comparisons, see our UK ETA 2026 rules and cost guide.

What Can You Do in the UK With an ETA?

The UK ETA allows Saudi citizens to enter the United Kingdom for various purposes, including:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, attending events, cultural exploration, and leisure travel throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
• Business visits: Meetings, conferences, negotiations, and trade events. The UK and Saudi Arabia have extensive business ties in energy, finance, defence, and technology sectors.
• Medical treatment: Private healthcare in the UK. London’s Harley Street and specialist hospitals across the country are sought-after destinations for Saudi patients seeking advanced medical care.
• Education support: Visiting children at UK universities, attending open days, graduations, and related educational activities. The UK hosts a large Saudi student population, with thousands of Saudi students studying at British universities under the King Abdullah Scholarship Programme and similar initiatives.
• Family visits: Spending time with relatives living in the UK.
• Religious and cultural tourism: Visiting historic sites, museums, and cultural institutions. The UK has a number of significant Islamic heritage sites and museums with important Middle Eastern collections.
• Short courses: Academic or professional courses lasting up to 6 months.

The ETA does not permit paid employment in the UK. Saudi nationals wishing to work in the UK must obtain the appropriate work visa.

Practical Travel Tips for Saudi Visitors to the UK

These practical tips will help Saudi travellers make the most of their UK visit:

Currency and payments: The UK uses the British Pound Sterling (GBP). As of early 2026, £1 is approximately SAR 4.70. Card payments are widely accepted everywhere in the UK, including contactless. Most Saudi banks, including Al Rajhi, NCB, and Riyad Bank, offer international cards with competitive exchange rates.

Halal food: The United Kingdom has one of the best selections of halal food in Europe. London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bradford, and Leicester have extensive halal dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual eateries and takeaways. Many major supermarket chains including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda stock halal-certified meat and products. Edgware Road in London is famous for its concentration of Arabic and Middle Eastern restaurants.

Prayer facilities: The UK has over 1,500 mosques and numerous prayer rooms. London Central Mosque near Regent’s Park, the East London Mosque, and Birmingham Central Mosque are among the largest and most well-known. Most shopping centres, airports, and universities provide dedicated prayer rooms. Apps such as Muslim Pro can help locate nearby prayer facilities.

Weather preparedness: The UK climate is vastly different from Saudi Arabia’s. Summer temperatures average 15–25°C, while winter can bring temperatures near or below freezing, with rain possible year-round. Saudi visitors should pack warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy, comfortable footwear. Those visiting between October and March should bring a heavy coat.

Shopping: The UK offers outstanding shopping opportunities. London’s Oxford Street, Regent Street, Knightsbridge, and Bond Street provide everything from high street fashion to ultra-luxury brands. The Bicester Village outlet near Oxford is popular with international visitors for its discounted designer goods. Remember to ask about the VAT Retail Export Scheme, which can save international visitors up to 20% on purchases.

Accommodation: Many luxury hotels in London and other UK cities cater specifically to Gulf visitors, offering Arabic-speaking concierge services, halal dining options, Qibla direction indicators, and prayer mats. Serviced apartments are also popular with Saudi families seeking more space and kitchen facilities for longer stays.

Driving: Saudi driving licences are valid in the UK for up to 12 months. The UK drives on the left side of the road, which requires adjustment for Saudi drivers. Speed limits are in miles per hour. Many car rental companies have branches at UK airports.

Emergency contacts: The UK emergency number is 999 (or 112). The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in London is located in Mayfair and can assist with consular matters.

UK Border Control: What to Expect on Arrival

When arriving in the UK from Saudi Arabia, here is the border control process:

1. Follow immigration signs to the passport control area. Saudi nationals should join the “All Other Passports” or “Non-UK/EU” queue, unless directed to eGates.
2. eGates availability: Saudi passport holders may be eligible to use automated eGates at participating UK airports. These use facial recognition and significantly speed up the entry process.
3. Passport scanning: At either the eGate or manned desk, your passport will be scanned. Your ETA is electronically linked to your passport, so no separate printed document is needed.
4. Border officer questions: If processed by a border officer, you may be asked about your visit’s purpose, accommodation, length of stay, and return plans. Answer clearly and honestly. Having your hotel booking confirmation and return flight details accessible on your phone is helpful.
5. Baggage reclaim: After clearing immigration, collect your luggage from the designated carousel.
6. Customs: Proceed through the green (nothing to declare) or red (goods to declare) customs channel. Be aware of UK limits on bringing in goods, particularly electronics and luxury items.

For detailed border control information, visit our UK border control and customs rules guide. If your ETA is refused, our ETA refusal help guide explains available options.

Frequently Asked Questions: UK ETA for Saudi Citizens

When did the UK ETA requirement start for Saudi citizens?
Saudi citizens have needed a UK ETA since February 2024, as part of the GCC rollout of the programme.

How quickly is a UK ETA approved for Saudi nationals?
The majority of applications are approved within minutes. In some cases, processing may take up to 3 working days. Apply at least a week before your planned travel date.

Can I visit Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland with my ETA?
Yes. The UK ETA covers the entire United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

My children study in the UK. Do I need an ETA each time I visit them?
You need one valid ETA, which lasts for 2 years or until your passport expires. During this period, you can make unlimited visits. Each visit can last up to 6 months.

Is the UK ETA the same as a visa?
No. The ETA is a lighter-touch authorisation for visa-exempt nationals. It is quicker, cheaper, and easier to obtain than a visa. It permits tourism, business visits, medical treatment, and other short-term activities but does not allow paid employment or long-term study.

Can I apply for a UK ETA while in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan or public holidays?
Yes. The ETA application is entirely online and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including during Ramadan, Eid, and Saudi National Day. Processing is automated and operates continuously.

Do I need to print my ETA?
No. The ETA is digitally linked to your passport. However, saving your approval email on your phone is recommended as a backup reference.

What if my ETA application is refused?
Refusals are uncommon but can happen. If refused, you will be told the reason and may be able to reapply or apply for a standard visitor visa instead. See our ETA refusal guide for detailed advice.

Is the ETA fee increasing?
The UK government plans to increase the fee from £16 to £20 in 2026, but the exact date has not been confirmed.

For more information about UK travel requirements, see our UK ETA requirements 2026 guide or visit the official GOV.UK ETA page.