Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s two holiest cities—Makkah and Madinah—has opened its doors to global travelers in recent years through its expanding visa options. Whether you’re planning a pilgrimage, a business trip, or a tourism visit, Maldivian citizens have several ways to enter Saudi Arabia legally and smoothly.
This guide explains the available Saudi visa for Maldivian Citizen, how to apply, required documents, and key travel tips for a successful visit.
Do Maldivian Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Citizens of the Maldives must obtain a visa before entering Saudi Arabia. The visa requirements vary depending on the purpose of travel:
- Tourism (eVisa)
- Umrah/Hajj (Religious Visa)
- Business or Work Visa
- Family Visit Visa
1. Umrah and Hajj Visa for Maldivian Muslims
Maldivian Muslims traveling for Umrah or Hajj can apply through approved travel agencies authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
✅ Requirements:
- A valid Maldivian passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed application through an authorized Umrah/Hajj agent
- Passport-sized photographs
- Vaccination certificate (especially for meningitis and COVID-19)
- Return flight details
- Proof of accommodation in Makkah and Madinah
Hajj visas are only issued during the Hajj season and must be arranged through the official Hajj quota and ministry-approved agencies in the Maldives.
2. Saudi eVisa for Maldivian Citizens (Tourist Visa)
Saudi Arabia has recently expanded its eVisa program to more countries, but as of now, Maldivian citizens are not yet eligible for the eVisa under the tourism category directly.
✅ However, if you hold a valid visa or residence permit for the US, UK, or Schengen countries, you may be eligible to apply for a tourist eVisa online or upon arrival at Saudi ports of entry.
How to Apply (if eligible via third-country visa):
- Visit the official portal:
- Complete the application form
- Upload passport, visa/residence permit from the qualifying country, and a passport photo
- Pay the fee online (~$117 USD including insurance)
- Receive eVisa via email
3. Business and Work Visas
For Maldivians traveling for business meetings, work contracts, or employment, a business or work visa must be arranged in coordination with a Saudi sponsor (company or employer).
Required Documents:
- Invitation letter issued through the Saudi Chamber of Commerce
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Medical examination report (for work visas)
- Academic/professional qualification documents
- Passport-sized photos
- Visa fee (varies)
Work visas also require a block visa from the Saudi Ministry of Labor and are subject to a sponsorship (Kafala) system.
4. Family Visit Visa
Maldivian citizens with relatives working or residing in Saudi Arabia may apply for a family visit visa. This visa is typically initiated by the Saudi resident sponsor via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) portal.
Where to Apply for a Saudi Visa in the Maldives
Maldivian citizens can apply for Saudi visas through:
- Saudi Embassy or Consulate (usually in Colombo, Sri Lanka or nearby countries)
- Authorized travel agencies in the Maldives (especially for Umrah and Hajj)
- Online visa platforms (if eligible)
✈️ Entry Airports and Border Points
With a valid visa, Maldivian citizens can enter Saudi Arabia via major international airports:
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) – Closest to Makkah
- Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Madinah) – For pilgrims
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)
- King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)
Final Tips for Maldivian Travelers
- Vaccinations: Required for Umrah/Hajj (especially meningitis and COVID-19)
- Travel Insurance: Usually included in the eVisa or required separately
- Respect Local Laws: Saudi Arabia enforces conservative dress codes and social behavior
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely used in business and hospitality
✅ Summary
| Visa Type | Available for Maldivians | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah/Hajj Visa | ✅ Yes | Through approved religious agents |
| Tourist eVisa | ❌ Not directly eligible* | Only with valid US/UK/Schengen visa |
| Business Visa | ✅ Yes | Through Saudi sponsor/company |
| Work Visa | ✅ Yes | Requires employer sponsorship |
| Family Visit Visa | ✅ Yes | Initiated by resident relative |
Conclusion
While Maldivian citizens require a visa to visit Saudi Visa for Tajik Citizen, the process is manageable with the right preparation and documentation. Whether you’re visiting for religious, business, or personal reasons, understanding your visa type and following the official process ensures a smooth and respectful entry into the Kingdom.