Saudi visit and transit visas: What Kuwait residents need to know

Traffic at the Kuwait–Saudi land crossing has risen sharply in recent days. With Kuwait’s airspace closed since 28 February, many travellers are driving into Saudi Arabia to continue their journeys from airports such as Dammam, Riyadh, or Jeddah. As a result, the Nuwaiseeb–Khafji border point has become the primary exit route for people leaving Kuwait.

Current conditions at the border

Authorities in both countries have been reviewing operations at Nuwaiseeb to improve traffic flow and speed up traveller processing.

• The drive from Kuwait into eastern Saudi Arabia typically takes 3–4 hours, though this can increase depending on queues and document checks.
• Travellers report heavier movement than usual, though not all describe it as severe congestion.
• Processing times tend to rise during peak hours, especially with more detailed document verification.

What travellers are experiencing

Many residents particularly expatriates from India, Egypt, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are opting for land travel to reach Saudi airports. Travellers are advised to:

• Expect longer waits at the border.
• Carry printed copies of visas, residency permits, and onward flight tickets.
• Be prepared for more thorough checks due to the current situation.

Visa Options for Kuwait Residents

1. Saudi eVisa for GCC residents

Expatriate residents of GCC countries, including Kuwait, can apply online for a Saudi tourist eVisa, regardless of profession. This is the most commonly used option for eligible nationalities.

General requirements include:

• Passport valid for at least six months
• Kuwait residency valid for at least three months
• Recent digital photograph
• Mandatory medical insurance (usually included in the visa fee)

Travel agents note that processing delays are occurring due to high demand. Some nationalities particularly Indian applicants have reported unusual slowdowns in online approvals.

2. Visa on arrival for certain travellers

Travellers holding a valid and previously used UK, US, or Schengen visa may obtain a visa on arrival at Saudi border points.

• Cost: SAR 395, including mandatory insurance
• Issued after verification of documents at the border

3. Transit visa for Jazeera Airways passengers

Passengers flying with Jazeera Airways through Al Qaisumah Domestic Airport and holding a valid Kuwait residency are issued a Saudi transit visa automatically.

However, travellers who are in Kuwait on a visit visa must secure a Saudi visa in advance before entering the Kingdom.

Eligibility Considerations

While Kuwait residency allows many expatriates to apply for Saudi visas, eligibility still varies by nationality. Requirements and approved nationalities can change periodically, so travellers should always check the latest rules before applying