(Last updated: 27 March 2012)

Visas

There are no tourist visas issued except for approved tour groups. No travel restrictions exist within Saudi Arabia, except for the holy cities of Makkah and Medina that are forbidden to non-Muslims.

It is essential to have a valid passport for at least six months and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. This must be obtained prior to leaving Australia, as it is almost impossible to get one once you have started travelling, even from Embassies in neighbouring Middle Eastern countries. If your passport has an Israeli stamp, you will be denied entry.

Ensure that you obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia prior to leaving Australia – you will not be allowed to board an aircraft bound for Saudi Arabia without one. All visitors have to be sponsored. The visa process is lengthy and usually takes several months to process. Visas are issued for:

• business and work purposes
• visiting close relatives
• transit and religious visits

Immigration in Saudi Arabia can be a lengthy process and thorough searches of luggage are conducted.

Arranging appointments with government bodies can be a lengthy process in Saudi Arabia and advanced notification of a minimum of six weeks should be given. If you are planning the visit the region, please discuss dates and travel arrangements with Austrade Riyadh first to ensure that your trip will be a successful and rewarding one.

For further information please contact your nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate prior to arrival.

Top Business Risks

• Bribery of Foreign Officials
• Tariffs and regulations
• Doing business in Saudi Arabia

OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises

Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.