Saudi Arabia Says Citizens of 1 Country Can Enter with ETA but Cannot Do One Key Thing
Saudi Arabia has given a clear reminder to UK nationals traveling to the Kingdom, highlighting one essential activity that is not permitted for individuals entering on an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia presently enables UK citizens to enter without a traditional visa, making the UK the only country in the world with this policy.
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Instead of a conventional visa, eligible UK travelers utilize an ETA, a digital travel authorization that allows them to enter under certain conditions.
What the Saudi ETA does not cover?
Despite the relative ease of access the ETA provides, Saudi Arabia has been explicit about its limitations. The Kingdom stated directly: “ETA cannot be used for work or Hajj.”
This means that UK nationals who travel to Saudi Arabia on an ETA are permitted to visit for tourism or short stays but are barred from using the authorisation to seek employment or to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Both activities require separate, specific documentation and authorisation from the relevant Saudi authorities.
Saudi Arabia ETA: Why this distinction matters
The ETA provides no pathway for UK citizens wanting to perform Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars and a pilgrimage that brings millions of Muslims to Mecca each year.
Prospective pilgrims, regardless of nationality, must complete the official Hajj visa application process. Similarly, anyone wanting to work for pay in the Kingdom cannot use the ETA as a substitute for a legitimate work authorization or employment visa.
Saudi Arabia’s labor entry procedures remain independent from the ETA scheme, and people who work without the proper papers may face legal consequences under Saudi law.
The explanation serves as an essential reminder that, while the ETA facilitates short-term entry for UK nationals, it places strict restrictions on what travelers can do once within the country.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has named a country as eligible for the ETA. It recently reported that Saudi Arabia has declared that UK citizens can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) instead of a standard visa.
The ETA allows UK citizens to make repeated journeys to Saudi Arabia within two years, but each traveler, including minors, must submit a separate application.