Saudi Arabia is becoming a popular business destination due to its strong economy, strategic location, business-friendly reforms, and Vision 2030 plan, which appeals to global companies.
UAE residents who intend to travel to Saudi Arabia for business must comprehend the procedure for applying for a visa. Even though Saudi Arabia has strict immigration regulations, it is still possible to travel there if you make the right arrangements.
Who is considered as a Saudi Arabian business visitor?
Usually, these Saudi Arabian business visitors are professionals or entrepreneurs representing their companies or seeking business ventures abroad. They commonly occupy positions like executives, managers, or specialists in their respective fields.
Types of activities you can do as a business visitor to Saudi
As a business visitor to Saudi Arabia, you can engage in various activities that combine professional engagements with cultural and leisure experiences.
Business Meetings and Conferences
Attend trade shows, networking events, and business conferences in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. These gatherings provide opportunities for networking, cooperation, and insights into regional markets.
Cultural Experiences
Visit historical sites such as Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Riyadh, to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the National Museum in Riyadh to learn more about the country’s history and culture.
Dining and Cuisine
Enjoy the diverse range of food options available, including both international and traditional Saudi cuisine. In cities such as Jeddah and Riyadh, you can enjoy international gourmet meals as well as local specialities like Kabsa and Mandi.
Entertainment and Sports
Attend athletic events, musical performances, and cultural festivals as Saudi Arabia increases the variety of entertainment available. International sporting events and music festivals are held in Riyadh and Jeddah, which gives visitors a lively experience.
Combining business with these activities may allow you to enjoy your vacation while learning more about Saudi Arabia’s diverse terrain.
Types of activities you cannot do as a business visitor to Saudi
As a business visitor to Saudi Arabia, it’s crucial to understand the activities you are not permitted to engage in to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations:
Employment Activities
Business travellers are not permitted to engage in any form of employment, including working for local businesses, conducting commercial sales, or participating in long-term projects. It is against the law to work without the required work permit.
Commercial Sales
Directly selling goods or services to the general public, as well as conducting retail activities, is prohibited. This includes setting up a stall or taking part in a market.
Long-Term Projects
Participating in long-term initiatives or building projects is not permitted. Such projects can only be supervised or examined by business visitors, not actively worked on.
Setting Up a Business
While you can discuss and plan business ideas, you cannot legally establish or begin operations without the necessary business licenses and permissions.
Documents Required for Saudi Business Visa from UAE
To apply for a Saudi business visa, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
Passport
Ensure your original passport is valid six months or more after the date you want to enter Saudi Arabia. At least two consecutive blank visa pages must accompany this.
Letter of Invitation
Obtain an official letter of invitation from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) addressed to the specific Saudi consulate to which you intend to apply.
Employment Confirmation
Provide a letter from your employer confirming your employment status and detailing the purpose and duration of your trip to Saudi Arabia.
Photographs
Submit two recent colour photographs taken against a white background printed on high-quality photo paper.
Identification
Provide a copy of your Saudi national ID card or, for foreigners, your residency permission (Iqama), if applicable.
How to Apply for a Business Visa for Saudi Arabia from UAE
Applying for a business visa for Saudi Arabia from the UAE is straightforward with VFS Tasheer. Start by visiting their website and creating an account. Once logged in, fill out the visa application form accurately. Upload scanned copies of required documents like your passport, UAE residence permit, and the Saudi company’s invitation letter.
Proceed to pay the visa fees. After payment confirmation, download and print the completed application form, which includes a unique reference number. Compile all necessary documents, including the printed application form with the reference number, and submit them to the nearest VFS Tasheer office.
You can track your visa application status using the VFS Tasheer portal.
Contact our visa experts at Visaguy before applying for your visa to make sure everything is clear and to get professional guidance throughout the process.
Must Read: Why You Need to Prefer Travel Insurance for Your International Trips
Essential Details About Saudi Business Visa
Validity
The maximum validity and stay period for a single-entry business visa is three months and thirty days, respectively. A multiple-entry business visa allows for a maximum stay of 90 days per trip and can be given for six months, a year, two years, or five years.
Processing time
There may be variations in the processing time. However, the typical processing period for a business visa to Saudi Arabia can take up to 10 working days, depending on when the application is submitted.
Benefits of Conducting Business in Saudi
Operating in Saudi Arabia provides numerous benefits.
The national economy is rapidly expanding as a result of Vision 2030, which aims to modernize and diversify a variety of industries such as technology, tourism, and renewable energy. This opens up numerous new investment opportunities.
Saudi Arabia’s advantageous location allows for easy access to markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an excellent hub for international trade. The nation’s cutting-edge infrastructure, which allows for efficient corporate operations, includes sophisticated logistics centres and transportation networks.
The government has made it easier for foreign businesses to do business by establishing special economic zones, providing tax incentives, and removing regulatory barriers. These regulations assist companies in establishing and expanding in the Saudi market.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s labour force is young and highly educated. The government is funding education and training programs to help people advance in their careers and provide skilled workers for businesses.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Saudi business visa allows UAE residents to take advantage of exciting business opportunities in a thriving economy. Visaguy understands the complexities of visa applications and aims to simplify the process for you. Contact us today to learn more about our Saudi business visa services based in the UAE.
