The Saudi Visa Mistake That Nearly Cost Me My Trip

Located in the desert of Arabia is the fantastic contrast which combines old traditions with the futuristic skylines and golden sand dunes of the desert under the blue skies. Saudi Arabia is quickly building up to be one of the most fascinating destinations in the Middle East with Nabatean tombs in AlUla, high rise wonders of Riyadh, and serene coastal vibes of Jeddah. However, the Saudi visa is one thing standing between you and this adventure if you are a traveler from the UAE.

Applying for a Saudi visa for UAE residents is usually a simple and easy process, especially with the e-visa system in place. Of course, there is still the case of things that can go wrong even with a very simple system, as I found out in this one way.

Here’s what I can take you through as my near disaster in the Saudi visa process and the lessons to help save your trip :

1. It All Started with a Simple Error

I was excited to see the cultural gems of Riyadh and the historical marvels of Diriyah, so I rushed through the visa application process thinking it would be the same as any other Gulf country. I filled out the e visa form, uploaded my documents and submitted. Everything looked great until I got an email that my visa had been rejected.

The reason? A minor typo in my passport number.
Well, one digit off, and it would have cancelled out my trip.The Saudi Visa Mistake That Nearly Cost Me My Trip

2. The Reapplication Panic

It was four days away from my flight and I scrambled to reapply. The Saudi visa process is quite fast for UAE residents but the panic was real. I had to check passport number, personal details, travel dates, even the photo format twice and thrice. Every little box mattered.

The second application was successful and the e-visa was received in under 48 hours. But the stress? Absolutely avoidable.

3. Top Tips to Avoid My Mistake

These are a few tips that you should follow if you are planning your own journey to Saudi Arabia.

• Check all details, especially passport number and expiration dates.
• When applying for the Saudi e-visa, you should opt for the official Saudi e-visa platform or a trusted visa service provider to avoid any scams.
• Your passport needs to still be valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of entry.
• Even if your visa is digital, print and download your visa. You may or may not need it at immigration.

4. Don’t Miss These Saudi Gems

Once I got past the visa chaos, Saudi Arabia truly delivered.

AlUla’s rock formations and ancient tombs: Instagram-worthy and utterly surreal.

The Edge of the World near Riyadh: A dramatic cliff with sweeping desert views.

Jeddah’s Historic Al-Balad District: Colorful windows, old souks, and coastal charm.

Riyadh’s Boulevard: A surprise in the best way, a nightlife and entertainment hub.

The hassle was worth it for each destination, but next time I’ll be applying with even more care.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia is opening up in a way never seen before; a historical experience blend with heritage and hundreds of experiences to learn, enjoy and to stay. If you want a spiritual journey, a cultural experience, or a bold adventure, there is no place that you will leave with the overwhelming feeling of having been changed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can provide.

If you are a resident of UAE and are planning to visit this magnificent country, then applying for a Saudi visa from UAE is easy and quick provided you avoid simple mistakes. Review your application with precision and learn from mine, you will be all set for an unforgettable trip.

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