The Gulf states have transformed their approach to international tourism over the past decade, moving from largely closed or restrictive visa regimes to some of the most accessible online entry systems in the world. Saudi Arabia opened to leisure tourism in 2019; the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait each have their own arrangements. This guide explains how the main systems work and what to expect — but entry requirements vary significantly by nationality and can change, so always check current rules with the relevant embassy or your own government before you travel.
Requirements vary by nationality and change frequently. The Gulf states have expanded and revised their visa and entry rules repeatedly. What applied last year may not apply today. Always check the official government portal and your own government's travel advice before booking. Social and cultural norms also differ significantly from many travellers' home countries — take time to understand local laws and expectations before you go.
Saudi Arabia's tourist eVisa
Saudi Arabia introduced a tourist eVisa in 2019, aimed at leisure travellers, and eligible nationalities can apply entirely online. The visa is typically a multiple-entry permit valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days in total during that period. The list of eligible nationalities has grown significantly and now includes most Western European and many other nationalities, but it is not universal — check the Saudi Tourism Authority or Visa platform for your specific passport.
The application is completed online, fees apply, and approval is usually received by email within a few days, sometimes within hours. You will need a passport with sufficient validity, basic personal information, and a credit or debit card for payment.
Saudi Arabia has relaxed many social regulations in recent years as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, but the country retains strict laws on alcohol (not permitted in most contexts), public dress (modesty expected, particularly for women visiting religious sites), and various other cultural expectations. Familiarise yourself with current rules before you arrive — your government's travel advice is a good starting point.
UAE: eVisa and visa on arrival
The United Arab Emirates — including Dubai and Abu Dhabi — offers a range of entry options depending on your nationality:
- Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at UAE airports, typically for 30 days, extendable.
- Some nationalities can enter visa-free for a set duration (often 30–90 days).
- An online eVisa is available for other nationalities who are not eligible for on-arrival or visa-free entry.
Dubai International Airport is one of the world's busiest transit hubs, and many nationalities can transit through UAE airports without a visa for a limited time — a useful consideration if you have a layover. The transit rules, including which nationalities are eligible and the permitted duration, are set by the UAE and should be confirmed before you book.
The UAE maintains strict laws on drugs, alcohol (available in licensed venues but subject to rules), and public behaviour. What is legal in your home country may not be in the UAE.
Qatar's Hayya visa and visa-free access
Qatar has expanded its visa-free and on-arrival arrangements significantly, in part due to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Many nationalities can now enter Qatar visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival at Hamad International Airport. Qatar also runs an online pre-registration system that speeds up the process for eligible travellers.
As with other Gulf states, Qatar's social laws differ from many Western countries. Alcohol is available in hotels and licensed restaurants but subject to regulation. Public affection between non-married couples and same-sex relationships are subject to legal restrictions. Check your government's advice carefully before travel.
Qatar Airways operates one of the world's largest hub-and-spoke networks through Doha, making Hamad International a common transit point — and the transit and stopover rules there are worth understanding if you are building a long-haul routing around the region.
Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait
Bahrain operates an online eVisa system — Bahrain eVisa — that is straightforward for eligible nationalities and allows various durations of stay. Bahrain is one of the more accessible Gulf destinations for Western tourists and has a relatively relaxed atmosphere compared to some neighbours, though local laws and customs still apply.
Oman similarly offers eVisa access for a wide range of nationalities, and many passport holders can also obtain a visa on arrival at Muscat International Airport. Oman has a growing reputation as a travel destination for those seeking dramatic landscapes — deserts, wadis, and a dramatic coastline — with a calmer atmosphere than some Gulf cities.
Kuwait operates a more restricted visa policy than some of its Gulf neighbours. eVisa availability depends on nationality, and some travellers may need to apply through the Kuwaiti embassy. Check current requirements carefully, as Kuwait's arrangements have changed less rapidly than some others in the region.
Practical steps for applying for a Gulf eVisa
The application processes share several common features:
- Apply on the official government portal for the destination country — not through third-party sites that may charge inflated fees or provide unreliable service.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date (some countries require more).
- Have a passport-standard photograph in the required format.
- Confirmation of accommodation or a contact address in the country is often required.
- Save and print your eVisa approval — even in countries that operate electronic systems, having a printout is useful at the airport.
- Allow a few business days for processing, even for systems that often approve faster.
Transiting through Gulf airports
Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi are among the world's busiest transit hubs, and many long-haul routes pass through them. Transit rules — whether you need a transit visa, for how long you can stay airside or landside — vary by nationality and by airport. These rules can change at short notice. Always check with your airline and the airport authority, as some transit restrictions have been introduced with little warning.
For more on understanding visa needs for your itinerary, see how to work out whether you need a visa for any country, and for travel between Europe and the Gulf, ETIAS covers what's coming for visitors to the Schengen Area.
Frequently asked questions
Can British citizens get a Saudi tourist eVisa?
British passport holders are among the nationalities eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa. Applications are made online through the official platform. Approval is often issued within days. Confirm current eligibility on the Saudi Tourism Authority website or your government's travel advice.
How long can I stay in Dubai on a visa on arrival?
Many nationalities receive a 30-day stamp on arrival in Dubai, extendable within the UAE. The exact duration and extension options depend on your nationality and the current rules — check with UAE immigration or your government before you travel.
Do I need a visa to transit through Doha or Dubai?
Many nationalities can transit through Doha and Dubai without a visa for a limited period. Rules vary by nationality and the duration of your layover. Check with your airline and the relevant airport authority before your journey.
Is alcohol available in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states?
Alcohol laws differ across the Gulf. Saudi Arabia has strict restrictions on alcohol. The UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman permit alcohol in licensed venues such as hotels and some restaurants, but rules apply. Kuwait has significant restrictions. Research current rules for your specific destination before you travel.
Sources and further reading:
- Saudi Tourism Authority and Saudi visa portal (evisa.mofa.gov.sa) — official information for Saudi entry.
- UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship — official UAE visa information.
- Your government's official travel advice for each Gulf destination.