The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with its ancient roots, spiritual holiness, and a vision of the future has turned out to be one of the most interesting places to visit in the Middle East. To Brunei Darussalam citizens, accessibility to the Kingdom has never been as easy as it is now. You are about to take a spiritual journey to a religious Mecca or you are planning a cultural trip to AlUla, or even a business trip to Riyadh, the Saudi Arabia eVisa is your access to a hassle-free experience.

Long embassy appointments, paperwork is a thing of the past. With the launch of the electronic visa (eVisa) platform, traveling has become a revolution even to Bruneians, as long as they are eligible. This guide will give you the full picture on the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Brunei citizens to travel , along with the list of the requirements and prices, as well as the rules of entry, and the most important travel tips.

Do Brunei Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, citizens of Brunei require a valid visa to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. However, the process is incredibly streamlined. Brunei is listed among the eligible countries for the Saudi eVisa, which means you can obtain your travel authorization entirely online before your departure. While Bruneian passport holders are also eligible for a Visa on Arrival, applying for the eVisa in advance is highly recommended. It eliminates the risk of rejection at the border and allows you to skip long queues at immigration counters, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. Permitted Activities:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, desert safaris, and visiting historical sites like Diriyah.
• Umrah: Performing the minor pilgrimage to Mecca (permitted anytime except during the Hajj season).
• Family Visits: Visiting relatives or friends residing in the Kingdom.
• Events: Attending concerts, festivals, or sporting events.
• Business: Attending meetings and conferences (strictly no paid employment).

Saudi eVisa Requirements for Brunei Passport Holders

The Saudi eVisa requirements for Bruneians are minimal and straightforward. To ensure a successful application, you must have the following ready:

• Valid Brunei Passport: Your passport must have a validity of at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Digital Photograph: A recent color photograph with a white background. The photo must be clear, showing your full face without headwear (unless worn for religious reasons).
• Email Address: A valid email address to receive the approved eVisa PDF.
• Payment Method: A Credit or Debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or a digital wallet to pay the visa fees.
• Accommodation Details: You may be asked to provide the name of your hotel or a residential address in Saudi Arabia during the application.

Saudi Visa Requirements for Minors: Traveling with Children

If you are traveling with children, it is critical to understand the specific rules for minors (individuals under 18 years of age):

• Individual Visas: Children cannot be added as “dependents” on a parent’s visa. Every minor must have their own separate eVisa.
• Guardian Application: Minors cannot apply for the visa themselves. A parent or legal guardian must complete the application on their behalf.
• Accompanied Travel: Minors holding a tourist eVisa are not permitted to enter Saudi Arabia alone. They must be accompanied by a parent or an adult guardian (over 18 years old) at the port of entry.
• Documents: The documentation requirements (passport, photo) are the same as for adults.

Is the Saudi Visa Single or Multiple Entry?

One of the most significant advantages of the Saudi eVisa for Bruneians is its entry flexibility. The standard Tourist eVisa is issued as a Multiple Entry visa.

• Multiple Entry: You can enter, leave, and re-enter Saudi Arabia as many times as you wish during the visa’s validity period.
• Benefits: This is ideal if you plan to combine your trip with visits to neighboring countries like the UAE or Bahrain, or if you perform Umrah multiple times a year.
• Note: While rare, in some specific cases, authorities may issue a Single Entry visa at their discretion, but the standard for tourists is Multiple Entry.

How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa from Brunei

Applying for the Saudi eVisa is a fast, fully digital process that takes just a few minutes:

1. Fill Out the Application: Enter your personal details (Name, Date of Birth, Nationality) exactly as they appear on your Brunei passport.
2. Upload Documents: Upload a clear scan of your passport’s bio page and your passport-style digital photo.
3. Choose Processing Speed: Select how quickly you need the visa (Normal, Rush, or Super Rush).
4. Make Payment: Pay the visa fees securely using your preferred online payment method.
5. Receive Visa: Once approved, the eVisa will be sent to your email. Print a copy to carry with you, as some airlines may ask to see a physical document.

If I upload a photo that is slightly blurry or has the wrong background, will I get rejected immediately?”

• Government Website: Yes, there is a high risk. The government system is automated and unforgiving. It does not warn you if your photo doesn’t meet the strict ISO standards. It simply accepts the file, charges your card, and then rejects the visa days later.
• saudi-arabia-evisas.com: No, we protect you. We manually inspect every pixel of your documents. If your photo has a shadow, bad lighting, or the wrong size, we fix it for you or ask for a new one before the government ever sees it.

How Fast Can You Get Your Saudi Visa?

Whether you are planning months in advance or need to travel urgently, there is a processing option to suit your needs:

• Normal Processing: Ideal for early planners. This option typically takes 1-2 Working Days to process and allows you to secure your visa at the standard rate.
• Rush Processing: Perfect if your trip is approaching soon. You can expect a decision within 6 – 12 Hours.
• Super Rush Processing: The ultimate solution for emergency travel. This service prioritizes your application, often delivering the approved visa in 1 Hour or even less.

Saudi Arabia eVisa Fees and Cost for Brunei Citizens

Understanding the cost structure helps in budgeting for your trip. The total Saudi Arabia Visa fee generally consists of two components:

1. Government Fee: This is the mandatory fee charged by the Saudi authorities, which covers the visa issuance and the mandatory medical insurance.
2. Service Fee: If you use a visa assistance service for error-checking and 24/7 support, a service fee applies. This fee varies based on the processing speed you select (Standard, Rush, or Super Rush).

Tip: Always use a secure payment method and ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.

Can Brunei Citizens Perform Umrah on a Tourist eVisa?

Yes. For Muslim citizens of Brunei, this is a major benefit. The standard tourist eVisa automatically allows you to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

• No “Umrah Visa” Required: You do not need to apply for a specific religious visa unless you are traveling during the Hajj season.
• Nusuk App: To manage crowds, you may need to download the Nusuk app to book specific time slots for Umrah rituals and for praying in the Rawdah at the Prophet’s Mosque.
• Hajj Exclusion: The eVisa is strictly not valid for Hajj. Hajj pilgrims must apply for a dedicated Hajj visa through specific Ministry channels.

Saudi Visa on Arrival vs. eVisa: Which is Better?

While Bruneians are eligible for Visa on Arrival (VoA), comparing the two options highlights why the eVisa is the smarter choice:

Feature	eVisa (Recommended)	Visa on Arrival
Certainty	Approved before you fly.	Risk of rejection at the airport.
Convenience	Apply from home in minutes.	Wait in queues at immigration.
Speed	Fast-track entry.	Processing takes time upon landing.
Airline Boarding	Smooth check-in.	Some airlines strictly check return tickets for VoA.

Verdict: For peace of mind, applying for the eVisa is always recommended over the Visa on Arrival.

Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia from Brunei

Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate, while Saudi Arabia is largely desert. Timing your visit can make a huge difference in comfort.

• November to March (Winter): This is the best time to visit. Temperatures are mild and pleasant (15°C – 25°C), perfect for exploring Riyadh and outdoor heritage sites.
• April & October: Warm but manageable.
• May to September (Summer): Extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. If visiting during summer, plan for indoor activities or visit the cooler, mountainous region of Abha.

Designated Entry Points for eVisa Holders

With your Saudi eVisa, you can enter the Kingdom through all major international gateways:

• Airports: King Khalid International (Riyadh), King Abdulaziz International (Jeddah), King Fahd International (Dammam), and Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz (Medina).
• Land Borders: The King Fahd Causeway (connecting to Bahrain) and borders with UAE, Jordan, and Kuwait.
• Seaports: Including Jeddah Islamic Port, which is popular for cruise tourists.

Common Reasons for Saudi eVisa Rejection

While rejection is rare for Brunei citizens, avoiding these common mistakes ensures a smooth process:

• Blurry Photo: Uploading a low-quality or shadowed photograph.
• Typographical Errors: Mismatch between the name on the application and the passport.
• Passport Validity: Applying with a passport that expires in less than 6 months.
• Incomplete Information: Leaving mandatory fields blank or providing incorrect address details.

Cultural Etiquette and Travel Tips for Bruneians

Saudi Arabia is a conservative Islamic country. Bruneians, coming from a culture that also values tradition, will find many similarities, but there are key points to remember:

• Dress Modesty: While the abaya is no longer mandatory for tourists, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is expected for both men and women.
• Respect Prayer Times: Shops and businesses may close briefly for prayer five times a day.
• Alcohol Prohibition: Alcohol is strictly illegal in Saudi Arabia. Do not attempt to bring any into the country.
• Public Affection: Public displays of affection are frowned upon and should be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I work in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa? A: No, the eVisa is strictly for tourism, family visits, and Umrah. Employment requires a work visa/Iqama. Q: Is the visa fee refundable if my application is rejected? A: Typically, the government fee is non-refundable once the application is submitted. Q: Do I need a PCR test to enter Saudi Arabia? A: As of 2025, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but it is always wise to check the latest travel advisories before departure. Q: Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with a Brunei license? A: You can rent a car, but carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your Brunei license is highly recommended.

Conclusion

For citizens of Brunei, the Saudi Arabia eVisa unlocks a world of rich history, spiritual depth, and modern marvels. Whether you are drawn by the call of Umrah or the allure of the Red Sea, the digital visa system ensures your journey starts with ease. By understanding the requirements—especially for minors and entry types—and choosing the right processing speed, you can focus on planning an unforgettable trip. Ensure your passport is ready, respect the local customs, and prepare for a warm Arabian welcome. Ready to explore the Kingdom? Apply for your Saudi eVisa today!