Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Times of India
The Times of India
World
TOI World Desk

Planning a Saudi trip? Brits can stay up to 180 days under new electronic travel permit from July

British citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia will be able to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from July 1, 2026, under a new entry system announced by the Kingdom's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!

The new service will be available to holders of all British passport types visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism, business or short-term study, SPA reports.

Under the scheme, travellers can stay in the Kingdom for up to 180 consecutive days within a one-year period. The ETA also allows multiple entries using a single electronic authorisation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the move reflects the long-standing ties between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom and follows travel facilitation measures previously introduced by the UK for Saudi citizens.

Officials clarified that the ETA cannot be used for employment or residency in Saudi Arabia and does not replace visas required for Hajj.

The ministry said the initiative is aimed at making travel between the two countries easier while supporting tourism, business and educational visits.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.