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Do South African citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
South Africa 
Saudi Arabia South Africa passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia, so no application is needed before travelling.
Visa on arrival
- Entry requirement
- Visa on arrival
- Maximum stay
- Check on entry
- Apply before travel
- No
- Last updated
- February 2026
What South Africa passport holders need to do
- Bring a passport with enough validity and at least one blank page.
- Have the visa fee ready, often in cash, plus passport photos if they are requested.
- Carry proof of onward travel and accommodation to show the immigration officer.
South Africa is one of 69 passports in the “visa on arrival” group for Saudi Arabia. See the full Saudi Arabia visa requirements for every passport.
Other easy destinations in Asia for South Africa passport holders
Saudi Arabia is one of 33 destinations in the “visa on arrival” group for the South Africa passport, which ranks #43 worldwide with a mobility score of 98. Of 50 destinations in Asia, 26 need no visa arranged in advance; the easiest are listed below.
| Destination | Requirement | Max stay |
|---|---|---|
 Georgia | Visa-free | 360 days |
 Hong Kong | Visa-free | 30 days |
 Israel | Visa-free | 90 days |
 Macau | Visa-free | 30 days |
 Malaysia | Visa-free | 90 days |
 Palestine | Visa-free | – |
 Philippines | Visa-free | 30 days |
 Singapore | Visa-free | 30 days |
 Thailand | Visa-free | 60 days |
 Armenia | Visa on arrival | – |
 Cambodia | Visa on arrival | – |
 Indonesia | Visa on arrival | – |
Frequently asked questions
Do South African citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
South Africa passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia, so no application is needed before travelling.
Do Saudi Arabia citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Saudi Arabia passport holders can enter South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days.
Saudi Arabia visa requirements for other passports
Data last updated February 2026. This page covers short visits such as tourism. Rules can change at short notice and differ for work, study or long stays. Confirm with the embassy or official immigration website of Saudi Arabia before you book.