Unlocking the Kingdom: Your Saudi Visa for Canadian Citizens and Essential Saudi Arabia Laws for Tourists

Saudi Arabia, a nation undergoing a remarkable transformation, is rapidly emerging as a compelling destination for global travelers.1 With its ambitious Vision 2030, the Kingdom is actively opening its doors, inviting visitors to discover its ancient heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant modern culture.2 For Canadian citizens eager to explore this captivating land, obtaining a Saudi visa has become remarkably straightforward, largely thanks to the efficient e-Visa system.3 However, alongside the simplified entry, understanding Saudi Arabia laws for tourists is paramount for a respectful and problem-free journey.

Securing Your Saudi Visa for Canadian Citizens

For most Canadian travelers, the electronic visa (e-Visa) is the most convenient and highly recommended option for visits related to tourism, leisure, family visits, attending events, or even performing Umrah (outside of the Hajj season).

The e-Visa Process for Canadian Citizens:

1. Eligibility Confirmation: Canadian citizens are fully eligible for the Saudi tourist e-Visa.4 This means the entire application can be completed online, eliminating the need for embassy visits.5

2. Required Documents (Digital Copies):

• Valid Canadian Passport: A clear digital scan of the biographical page. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia.

• Digital Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent (within the last six months) color photo, 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), on a plain white background. It should show a full-face view with a neutral expression, no eyeglasses, and no headwear (unless for religious reasons).6

• Valid Payment Method: A credit or debit card for the online visa fee.7

• Active Email Address: To receive communications and the approved e-Visa.8

3. Official Online Portal: Always begin your application on the official Visit Saudi e-Visa website: visa.visitsaudi.com. Be wary of third-party websites that may charge inflated fees or be fraudulent.

4. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online form accurately. This includes personal details (matching your passport exactly), passport information, and basic travel plans (intended date of arrival, port of entry, duration of stay).

5. Upload Documents: Follow the prompts to upload your passport scan and digital photo. Ensure they meet the specified file size and quality requirements.

6. Pay Visa Fees: The e-Visa fee for Canadian citizens is approximately USD 199 (which includes mandatory health insurance for your stay). Payment is made securely online.9

7. Review and Submit: Thoroughly review all information before submitting. Errors can cause delays or rejections.10

8. Receive Your e-Visa: Most e-Visa applications are processed very quickly, often within minutes to 24 hours.11 The approved e-Visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy and keep a digital version on your phone for presentation upon arrival.

Key Features of the e-Visa for Canadians:

• Multiple Entry: Typically a multiple-entry visa.12

• Validity: Valid for one year from the date of issue.13

• Stay Duration: Allows for stays of up to 90 days per visit, with a total cumulative stay not exceeding 90 days within the one-year validity period.14

• Umrah Inclusion: Permits Canadian Muslim travelers to perform Umrah outside of the Hajj season.15

• Visa on Arrival: While Canadians are eligible for a visa on arrival, obtaining the e-Visa in advance is highly recommended to avoid potential delays at the airport.16

Essential Saudi Arabia Laws for Tourists

While Saudi Arabia is becoming more open, it remains a conservative Islamic country with laws and customs that differ significantly from those in Canada. Respecting these Saudi Arabia laws for tourists is crucial for a pleasant and trouble-free visit.

1. Alcohol and Drugs: Zero Tolerance

• Strict Prohibition: Alcohol consumption, possession, import, and sale are strictly forbidden. This applies to bringing alcohol into the country, drinking in public, and even being under the influence.17 Penalties are severe and can include fines, imprisonment, and deportation.18

• Drugs: Saudi Arabia has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs. Trafficking, possession, and use carry extremely harsh penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, flogging, and even the death penalty.19 Even traces of drugs can lead to severe consequences.20

2. Dress Code and Public Decorum:

• Modesty is Key: Both men and women should dress modestly in public. While non-Muslim women are no longer required to wear an abaya or headscarf (unless visiting religious sites like mosques), loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is strongly recommended.21 Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts in public.

• Public Displays of Affection (PDA): Public displays of affection, even between married couples, are not acceptable and can lead to legal issues.22

• Gender Interaction: Be mindful of interactions between genders. Unrelated men and women should avoid physical contact in public.

3. Respect for Religion and Culture:

• Islam is the State Religion: Respect for Islam is paramount. Do not openly criticize or disrespect Islamic practices or symbols.

• Prayer Times: Businesses and shops typically close for short periods during daily prayer times (five times a day). Plan your activities accordingly. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in the holy month of Ramadan.23

• Photography: Be cautious when taking photos. Do not photograph people without their consent, particularly women and children. Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, military installations, palaces, or accidents.24

4. Identification:

• Always carry a form of identification. For tourists, a copy of your passport and e-Visa is sufficient.

5. Prohibited Items:

• Pork Products: Importing pork or any pork-derived products is strictly forbidden and will be confiscated at customs.25

• Pornography/Obscene Material: Any material deemed pornographic or offensive (including on digital devices) is illegal.26

• Political/Religious Materials: Do not bring in materials that could be seen as criticizing Saudi Arabia, the royal family, Islam, or promoting other religions.27

• Drones: Drones require prior approval to be brought into the country.28

6. Public Criticism:

• It is illegal to criticize the Saudi government, the Royal Family, or Islam, whether verbally or on social media, even if posts were made outside Saudi Arabia prior to your visit.29 This can lead to severe penalties.

7. Relationships Outside Marriage:

• Sexual relations and living together outside of marriage are illegal.30 While enforcement has become more lenient for tourists, it is still a legal prohibition.

By understanding the straightforward process for obtaining a Saudi visa for Canadian citizens and adhering to essential Saudi Arabia laws for tourists, Canadian travelers can look forward to a welcoming and culturally enriching experience in this rapidly evolving and fascinating Kingdom. Always consult official government travel advisories for the most current information before and during your trip.