Saudi Arabia's New Visa Rule Makes Travel Easier for Filipinos

Thinking of visiting Saudi Arabia? Good news! The kingdom has made it much easier for tourists—including Filipinos—to explore its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant cities. With the introduction of a streamlined visa process, more Filipinos now have the opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia without excessive paperwork. Whether you're planning a trip for leisure, cultural exploration, or even Umrah, this new visa rule is a game changer.

What’s the Big Deal About This New Visa?

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For years, visiting Saudi Arabia meant dealing with strict visa requirements, making it a challenge for casual travellers. But as of 2025, Saudi Arabia is welcoming more visitors by offering easier access to Visa on Arrival for Filipinos who meet certain conditions. If you hold a valid and used visa from the U.S., U.K., or Schengen area with an entry stamp, you can now get a Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia without the need for prior application at an embassy.

This move is part of Saudi Arabia’s push to open its doors to international tourism, and Filipinos who meet the criteria can take full advantage of it! If you don’t qualify for the Visa on Arrival, you can still apply through the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.

Also read: Visa-Free Destinations for Filipinos in 2025 – No Hassle Travel!

How Can Filipinos Apply for the Saudi Tourist Visa?

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Saudi Arabia offers three main ways to get a tourist visa, depending on your eligibility:

✅ Visa on Arrival – As of 2025, if you have a valid and used visa from the U.S., U.K., or Schengen area, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival at a Saudi entry point. This is perfect for Filipinos who frequently travel internationally and want to experience Saudi Arabia without the usual visa application hassle.

✅ Consulate Visa – If you don’t qualify for Visa on Arrival, you can apply through a Saudi embassy or consulate in the Philippines. While this takes a bit more time, it’s still a solid option for those who want to visit.

✅ eVisa (For Eligible Countries) – While the Philippines is not currently on the eVisa list as of March 2025, Saudi Arabia continues to expand its tourism programme, so it’s worth keeping an eye on updates for future eligibility.

Why Visit Saudi Arabia?

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If you haven’t considered Saudi Arabia as a travel destination yet, it’s time to add it to your list. Here’s why:

Breathtaking Landscapes – From the otherworldly rock formations of AlUla to the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter, Saudi Arabia is home to some seriously stunning sights.

Modern Cities with a Twist of Tradition – Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam offer a mix of modern skyscrapers, bustling souks, and deep-rooted traditions that give you a unique travel experience.

Perfect for Umrah Trips – With easier visa access for certain travellers, performing Umrah outside of the Hajj season is now more convenient for Filipinos.

A Foodie’s Paradise – Whether you're into authentic Arabic cuisine or international flavours, Saudi’s dining scene is packed with surprises.

Also read: How to Sleep Better While Traveling: Expert Tips for Quality Rest

Final Thoughts

With Saudi Arabia making it easier for certain Filipino travellers to visit as of March 2025, now is the perfect time to start planning a trip. If you meet the Visa on Arrival requirements, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey. For others, applying through the embassy remains a great way to experience the kingdom. So, why not explore a new destination? Saudi Arabia is ready to welcome you!