Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah during pilgrimage season, Night View

Saudi Arabia Visit and Transit Visa for Pakistanis in 2025 – Full Guide

Saudi Arabia continues to be a top travel destination for Pakistanis, whether for pilgrimage, tourism, business, or short stopovers. In 2025, the Kingdom updated several visa policies that affect how Pakistani citizens can enter the country. With this guide, you’ll easily grasp the steps involved in obtaining visit and transit visas, allowing you to travel confidently without any worry or uncertainty.

1. What is a Visit Visa?

A visit visa allows Pakistani travelers to enter Saudi Arabia for a temporary period, usually for purposes such as tourism, meeting family, or attending events. In 2025, the Saudi government is primarily issuing single-entry visit visas to Pakistani citizens, which are valid for up to 30 days.

Requirements for Visit Visa:

  • Check that your passport is not due to expire within six months
  • A current passport-sized picture with a plain white background.
  • Return flight ticket
  • Hotel booking or a family invitation letter
  • Visa fee payment via the official portal

Applications can be submitted through the official Saudi e-visa website or through approved agents in Pakistan. The processing time is generally 3 to 7 working days, depending on the time of year and the documentation provided.

2. What is a Transit Visa?

A transit visa is granted to individuals traveling through Saudi Arabia as part of their onward journey. In 2025, Saudi Arabia will offer a 96-hour e-transit visa for Pakistani citizens, provided specific conditions are met.

Conditions for Transit Visa:

  • Flying with Saudi National Airlines, including Saudia or Flynas, is required.
  • Transit must be through recognized airports (Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam)
  • Layover should not exceed 96 hours
  • A visa must be applied for at least 72 hours before departure

Pakistani visitors often obtain this visa to conduct brief visits or perform Umrah during their stopover. However, always check if your transit visa allows religious activity, as not all transit visas grant that permission.

3. New Updates in 2025

This year, biometric verification has been introduced by Saudi Arabia for applicants from Pakistan. Most travelers will now need to visit a biometric center before their visa is approved. Additionally, multiple-entry visit visas are now limited and available only under special sponsorship conditions.

During Hajj and Ramadan, the visa approval rate drops, and restrictions increase. Therefore, apply early and avoid planning during peak religious months unless you're going for a pilgrimage with an approved Hajj or Umrah visa.

4. Visit Visa vs Transit Visa – What’s the Difference?

Feature Visit Visa Transit Visa
Purpose Tourism, Family Visit, Business Stopover before reaching another country
Maximum Duration of Stay Up to 30 Days Up to 96 Hours
Application Time 1–2 Weeks Before Travel At least 72 Hours Before Travel
Eligibility Open to all Pakistani citizens Depends on the airline and flight route

5. Mistakes to Avoid

  • Never apply through unverified travel agents
  • Do not submit incomplete or unclear documents
  • Avoid booking non-refundable tickets before visa approval
  • Confirm that your passport name exactly matches the name provided in your visa application.

Minor errors often result in delays or even rejections. Stay updated and follow the official steps to prevent issues.

Modern skyline of Riyadh with iconic Saudi skyscrapers at night

6. BilalTravel.com – Helping Pakistani Travelers Since Day One

For many Pakistani travelers, navigating the Saudi visa process can be confusing. That’s where trusted travel comes in. The platform offers accurate, up-to-date visa guides, checklists, and personalized assistance for all types of travelers—from solo adventurers to families going for Umrah or Ziyarat.

In 2025, Bilal Travel continues to serve as a trusted guide, answering frequently asked questions and offering real traveler experiences that help you make better travel decisions.

7. Final Checklist Before You Apply

  • Check your passport validity
  • Have your photograph ready in the correct format
  • Know your travel dates and return plan
  • Decide which visa type suits your journey
  • Visit BilalTravel.com for detailed guidance

Whether you are stopping over for a few hours or planning a longer visit, being informed is the best way to make your trip successful. Saudi Arabia’s evolving visa system in 2025 provides new opportunities but also demands careful planning.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia as a Pakistani citizen in 2025 is very much possible, whether it's for a short stopover or a meaningful family visit. The visit and transit visas are accessible as long as you meet the requirements and stay updated with the latest rules.

Don't take risks with unofficial agents or guesswork. Plan your journey with accurate information, proper documents, and verified sources like our platform. Safe travels!

Disclaimer: Visa rules may change at any time. Always confirm with the official Saudi eVisa portal or embassy before applying.