Saudi Arabia is set to further strengthen its ties with the United Kingdom by introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for British citizens, making travel to the Kingdom faster and more convenient.
The new service, announced by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will come into effect on 1 July 2026 and reflects the close and longstanding relationship between the two countries. It also establishes reciprocal arrangements similar to those already enjoyed by Saudi nationals travelling to the UK under Britain’s ETA scheme.
Under the new system, holders of all types of UK passports will be able to obtain an electronic travel authorisation allowing multiple entries into Saudi Arabia over a one-year period. Visitors will be permitted to stay in the Kingdom for up to 180 days, either during a single visit or spread across multiple trips within the validity of the authorisation.
The ETA is designed to facilitate travel for a range of purposes, including tourism, business visits and short-term study, providing greater flexibility for both leisure and professional travellers.
The authorisation does not replace visas required for employment, residency or the Hajj pilgrimage. Travellers intending to work, live permanently in Saudi Arabia or perform Hajj will continue to require the appropriate visa issued under existing regulations.
The introduction of the ETA represents another step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to simplify entry procedures as the Kingdom continues to expand its international tourism sector under Vision 2030. Improving accessibility has become a central element of the country’s strategy to attract 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by the end of the decade.
The United Kingdom remains an important source market for Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism industry, while business links between the two countries continue to deepen across sectors including investment, energy, technology, education, culture and luxury travel.
By streamlining the entry process for British travellers, Saudi Arabia is expected to encourage greater numbers of visitors to explore the Kingdom’s expanding portfolio of cultural, heritage, business and leisure attractions, while further reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
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