Saudi Arabia Simplifies Travel for Italian Citizens: 2026 E-Visa Guide and Latest Updates

As international travel enters a more digital-centric era in 2026, the diplomatic and tourism ties between Italy and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have reached a new milestone. For Italian travelers—ranging from history enthusiasts eager to see AlUla to business professionals heading to Riyadh—the Saudi Arabia e-visa for Italy citizens remains the most efficient gateway to the Kingdom.

This streamlined process not only eliminates the need for lengthy embassy visits in Rome or Milan but also positions Italy as a key partner in Saudi Arabia’s "Vision 2030" tourism expansion.

The 2026 Update: What Italian Travelers Need to Know

The electronic visa (e-visa) system has been refined to offer maximum flexibility. For Italian passport holders, the visa is issued as a multiple-entry permit, valid for an entire year. During this period, travelers can stay in the Kingdom for up to 90 days at a time.

Whether you are planning to witness the futuristic developments of NEOM, attend the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, or perform Umrah outside of the Hajj season, the Saudi Arabia e-visa for Italy citizens covers all leisure and religious tourism activities.

Eligibility and Essential Requirements

Italy is proudly featured on the list of visa eligible countries, ensuring a fast-track approval process. However, to ensure a smooth digital application, there are a few prerequisites.

Before you begin the online form, ensure you have the following Saudi Arabia visa documents ready:

• A valid Italian Passport: Must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry.

• Digital Photograph: A recent, high-resolution passport-style photo.

• Functional Email: To receive your digital visa PDF.

• Payment Method: A credit or debit card to cover the processing fees.

Understanding the Costs: Transparency in 2026

One of the most common questions for travelers is regarding the total investment for the permit. The Saudi Arabia visa fee is comprehensive. It includes the base visa cost, administrative processing, and—most importantly—mandatory medical insurance.

This insurance is unique because it is integrated into the visa itself, providing coverage for emergency health services within the Kingdom, giving Italian tourists peace of mind during their stay.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

The application process is designed to be completed in under 10 minutes. Follow these steps to secure your travel authorization:

1. Digital Entry: Head to the secure portal to visa apply.

2. Data Accuracy: Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your Italian passport. Small typos can lead to delays.

3. Submit and Pay: Upload your documents and pay the integrated fee via the secure gateway.

4. Receive Your Visa: Most Italian applicants receive their approved e-visa via email within 24 to 48 hours, though many are processed even faster.

Looking Ahead: The Unified GCC Visa

Interestingly for 2026, Saudi Arabia is moving closer to the full implementation of the "Grand Cruise" or Unified GCC Visa. Much like the European Schengen Area, this will eventually allow Italian tourists to travel between Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman on a single permit. While the standard e-visa is currently the primary tool, this regional integration makes Riyadh an even more attractive starting point for a Middle Eastern tour.

Practical Tips for Italian Visitors

• Arrival Points: The e-visa is accepted at all major gateways, including King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh) and King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah).

• Cultural Respect: While Saudi Arabia has modernized rapidly, travelers are encouraged to dress modestly in public spaces and be mindful of local traditions during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

• Umrah Note: Italian citizens can perform the Umrah pilgrimage on a tourist e-visa, but they must download the "Nusuk" app to book their prayer slots.

By maintaining a digital-first approach, Saudi Arabia has made it easier than ever for the people of Italy to discover the hidden gems of the Red Sea and the ancient heritage of the desert. If you have your flight booked, your next step is just a few clicks away.