Exploring Thailand Visa for Saudi Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide for Saudi Travelers

 Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like tourismthailand.org, thaiembassy.org, mfa.go.th, travel.state.gov, and culturetrip.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Thailand’s updated travel regulations.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Thailand, the Land of Smiles, is a vibrant destination renowned for its cultural landmarks like Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s ancient temples, and Phuket’s pristine beaches tourismthailand.org. For Saudi citizens, understanding visa requirements ensures a smooth entry to explore these treasures, whether joining guided Thailand Tours or traveling independently. Saudi nationals are not eligible for visa exemptions and must obtain a visa through a Thai embassy or consulate, with options like tourist visas or e-visas (if implemented) facilitating entry via Thailand’s 8 international airports, 26 land borders, and multiple seaports mfa.go.th. This guide provides practical visa insights, entry procedures, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Thailand Travel options for Saudi travelers.

Following Thailand’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via major entry points like Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Chiang Mai Airport, and land borders like Sadao (Malaysia). This guide blends visa requirements, entry procedures, and sustainable Thailand Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.

Administrative Note

Saudi citizens require a visa for Thailand, typically a tourist visa ($40–$50 or 1,400–1,750 THB) through a Thai embassy or consulate. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like the Grand Palace cost $15 (500 THB); guided tours range from $15–$80 (500–2,800 THB). Temporary residence registration may be required for stays over 30 days, typically handled by hotels or hosts. Verify visa requirements and entry procedures via thaiembassy.org or mfa.go.th.

Visa Options for Saudi Travelers

• Tourist Visa (TR):

  • Purpose: Tourism, leisure, or visiting friends/family.

  • Eligibility: Saudi citizens thaiembassy.org.

  • Duration: Up to 60 days (single entry); extendable for 30 days at immigration offices mfa.go.th.

  • Cost: $40 (1,400 THB); extension: $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.

  • Application Process:

    1. Visit the nearest Thai embassy or consulate (e.g., Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dubai) or check for e-visa availability at thaievisa.go.th if implemented mfa.go.th.

    2. Prepare required documents: passport (valid 6+ months with two blank pages), completed visa application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm, white background), proof of travel (flight itinerary), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation), proof of funds ($570 or 20,000 THB for individuals), and travel insurance (recommended, covering $10,000 or 350,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.

    3. Pay the visa fee ($40) via bank transfer or cash at the embassy; retain receipt thaiembassy.org.

    4. Submit application in person or by mail (depending on embassy rules); processing takes 3–7 working days mfa.go.th.

    5. Collect visa or receive confirmation; ensure details match passport to avoid entry issues thaiembassy.org.

  • Extension: Extendable for 30 days at immigration offices (e.g., Bangkok Immigration Office); fee: $55 (1,900 THB) mfa.go.th.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 8 airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Chiang Mai), 26 land borders (e.g., Sadao, Aranyaprathet), and seaports (e.g., Phuket, Krabi) tourismthailand.org.

• Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV):

  • Purpose: Frequent tourism or business visits.

  • Eligibility: Saudi citizens with proven travel history to Thailand thaiembassy.org.

  • Duration: Up to 6 months, with multiple entries (each stay up to 60 days) mfa.go.th.

  • Cost: $200 (7,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.

  • Requirements: Similar to TR visa, plus proof of multiple planned visits (e.g., flight itineraries) and financial statements showing $5,700 (200,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.

  • Application: Apply at a Thai embassy or consulate; processing takes 5–10 working days mfa.go.th.

• E-Visa (If Available):

  • Purpose: Tourism or leisure (subject to Thailand’s e-visa program expansion).

  • Eligibility: Saudi citizens, if implemented thaievisa.go.th.

  • Duration: Up to 60 days (single entry) mfa.go.th.

  • Cost: $40–$50 (1,400–1,750 THB) mfa.go.th.

  • Application Process (if available):

    1. Visit thaievisa.go.th, select English, and click “Apply” mfa.go.th.

    2. Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (entry/exit dates, checkpoints like Suvarnabhumi or Sadao), and accommodation details thaiembassy.org.

    3. Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background) and passport data page scan (.jpg, max 2MB) mfa.go.th.

    4. Pay the fee via credit/debit card; note the verification code mfa.go.th.

    5. Check status at thaievisa.go.th; download and print the e-visa PDF mfa.go.th.

    6. Present printed e-visa and passport at the border; ensure details match exactly thaiembassy.org.

  • Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited options may be available ($10–$20 or 350–700 THB) mfa.go.th.

• Key Restrictions:

  • Travelers must not fall under Thailand’s entry suspension categories (e.g., security risks, health concerns) mfa.go.th.

  • Temporary residence registration required for stays over 30 days, typically handled by hotels or hosts travel.state.gov.

  • Overstay penalties: 500 THB/day ($15/day), max 20,000 THB ($570); potential detention or deportation thaiembassy.org.

• Important Note: Saudi citizens are not eligible for Thailand’s visa exemption program (available to 93 countries, e.g., UAE, Qatar). Confirm e-visa availability for Saudi nationals at thaievisa.go.th before planning mfa.go.th.

Key Entry Points for Saudi Citizens

• Airports (8): Major entry points include Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), Don Mueang (Bangkok), Chiang Mai, and Phuket; immigration open 24/7 tourismthailand.org.

• Land Borders (26): Popular checkpoints include Sadao (Malaysia, near Bukit Kayu Hitam), Aranyaprathet (Cambodia, near Poipet), and Chiang Khong (Laos, near Huay Xai). Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM (some 24/7); expect queues during peak seasons mfa.go.th.

• Seaports: Key ports include Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui; used for cruise travelers tourismthailand.org.

• Requirements at Entry: Present a valid passport and visa (or printed e-visa, if available); provide proof of accommodation and onward travel (recommended); ensure details match passport to avoid delays thaiembassy.org.

Respecting Thailand’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth entry and travel experience during Thailand Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:

• Greetings: Offer a “sawasdee” (hello) with a slight bow or wai (palms pressed together); use both hands for transactions at immigration or markets to show respect culturetrip.com.

• Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits like the Grand Palace or Wat Arun; carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB) for sacred sites tourismthailand.org.

• Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration checkpoints; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing monks or locals; keep passport or visa copy secure. Avoid public criticism of the Thai monarchy (lèse-majesté laws, up to 15 years imprisonment). A guest from Saudi Arabia shared: “Respecting Thai customs eased our entry and enriched our trip.” culturetrip.com

• Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB); avoid littering at cultural sites like Chiang Mai’s temples; complete residence registration for stays over 30 days (handled by hotels) travel.state.gov.

• Tip: Say “khob khun” (thank you) to officers or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($3 or 100 THB) to support sustainable Thailand Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen respectful travelers thrive at Thailand’s borders and cultural sites.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 70 THB) for Thai basics like “khob khun”; English is widely spoken at major entry points and tourist areas culturetrip.com.

• Respect: Follow immigration rules (no photography in checkpoints); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets like Chatuchak.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas like Sadao or cities like Bangkok; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day) or songthaews ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB) after entry for sustainable travel tourismthailand.org.

Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey after entering Thailand, based on the latest data from tourismthailand.org, mfa.go.th, thaiembassy.org, and travel.state.gov. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Visa-Prepared Exploration

• Details: Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, or Phuket’s beaches independently after entering via Suvarnabhumi or Sadao; suitable for travelers with valid visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismthailand.org.

• Visa Tips: Carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; ensure passport validity (6+ months); register temporary residence at hotels for stays over 30 days thaiembassy.org.

• Schedule: Daily; Grand Palace open 8:30 AM–3:30 PM ($15 or 500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM ($1 or 30 THB); beaches accessible anytime.

• Cost: Entry: free (markets, beaches); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: $1 (30 THB); transport (bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day; songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB); local purchases: $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB).

• Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Thailand.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Tip: Apply for visas early; check thaiembassy.org; a Saudi guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after entering with a tourist visa.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Visa-Prepared Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Arun after entering via Suvarnabhumi; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Bangkok hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Ensure valid tourist visa; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration thaiembassy.org.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 7:30 AM from Bangkok hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (875–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Bangkok.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a Saudi guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after entry.”

3. Local Thailand (Combo Visa-Prepared Cultural and Market Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Warorot Market after entering via Chiang Mai Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Chiang Mai, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use a tourist visa or METV for multi-city travel; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility mfa.go.th.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Chiang Mai hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (1,050–1,750 THB, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Chiang Mai.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and eco-friendly transport reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Thailand partner sites); a Saudi guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing.”

4. Multi-Day Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket after entering via Suvarnabhumi or Sadao; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use an METV for multi-city travel; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration thaiembassy.org.

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Bangkok hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $80–$200/person (2,800–7,000 THB, includes entries).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Bangkok.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Thailand Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a Saudi guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Saudi travelers with valid visas.

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Market Tours: Blend cultural visits with market experiences for a comprehensive journey.

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Thailand’s green tourism goals.

Key visa-prepared travel opportunities include:

• Songkran (Thai New Year): Typically April, vibrant with water festivals and temple ceremonies; warm (25–35°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.

• Loy Krathong: Typically November, festive with floating lanterns; cool and dry (20–30°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.

• Cultural Site Visits: Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions tourismthailand.org.

Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for temple visits and festivals. Hot season (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Sadao. Morning visits (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.

• Verify Visa Needs: Saudi citizens require a tourist visa ($40) or METV ($200); check e-visa availability at thaievisa.go.th; apply at Thai embassies in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dubai thaiembassy.org.

• Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Suvarnabhumi or Sadao for smoother immigration; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed visa or passport photocopy; provide proof of accommodation and onward travel mfa.go.th.

• Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed visa copy or passport photocopy; provide proof of funds ($570 or 20,000 THB) if requested thaiembassy.org.

• Residence Registration: Confirm hotels or hosts register your stay for over 30 days; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.

• Eco-Tip: Use digital visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or songthaews for sustainable travel.

• Tip: Apply for visas 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry small THB notes for local purchases; contact the Thai embassy in Riyadh (+966 11 488 1174) or Jeddah (+966 12 606 6142) for assistance.

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed tourist visa ($40 or 1,400 THB), passport photocopy, proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking), proof of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket), wallet ($3 or 100 THB), tour bookings.

• Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($3 or 100 THB) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen ($5 or 175 THB) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 175 THB); hat ($3 or 100 THB).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($3 or 100 THB); snacks ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB, e.g., mango sticky rice); small backpack ($3 or 100 THB); sunscreen ($3 or 100 THB); insect repellent ($3 or 100 THB).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($5–$8 or 175–280 THB); local SIM ($3–$5 or 100–175 THB); waterproof camera ($10 or 350 THB) for photos.

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 100 THB) for purchases; phrase card ($2 or 70 THB) with Thai basics.

• Extras: Small THB notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($3 or 100 THB); umbrella ($3 or 100 THB) for wet season; money belt ($3 or 100 THB) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for Visa-Prepared Travel to Thailand

Visa and Travel Costs

• Tourist Visa Cost: $40 (1,400 THB); extension: $55 (1,900 THB); METV: $200 (7,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.

• Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets, beaches); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: $1 (30 THB); transport (bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day; songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB).

• Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (875–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).

• Combo Cultural and Market Tours: $30–$50 (1,050–1,750 THB, includes entry).

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,800–7,000 THB, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs

• Money Belt: $3 (100 THB).

• Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $3–$5 (100–175 THB).

• Travel Insurance (Recommended): $15–$40 (500–1,400 THB). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., tom yum, mango sticky rice): $0.30–$1 (10–30 THB).

• Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB).

• Donations: $0.30–$1 (10–30 THB). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs, and transport; $0.30–$15 for purchases or add-ons; apply for visas early to save time.

• Visa Tips: Apply for a tourist visa ($40) or METV ($200) at a Thai embassy; check e-visa availability at thaievisa.go.th; ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry proof of accommodation and funds thaiembassy.org.

• Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Suvarnabhumi or Sadao; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed visa or passport photocopy; provide proof of onward travel mfa.go.th.

• Etiquette: Use “sawasdee”; dress modestly for temples; respect immigration and local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.

• Schedules: Borders open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM (some 24/7); cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in cool season (November–February); book early for festivals.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or songthaews; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas or cities like Bangkok.

• Weather: Cool season (Nov–Feb, 20–30°C) ideal; hot season (Mar–May, 25–35°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Jun–Oct, 24–32°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via accuweather.com.

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($3 or 100 THB); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 191, Tourist Police: 1155, Saudi Embassy in Bangkok: +66 2 639 2980).

• Do Saudi citizens need a visa for Thailand? Yes, a tourist visa ($40) or METV ($200) is required; no visa exemption available thaiembassy.org.

• Which entry points accept Thai visas? All 8 airports, 26 land borders (e.g., Sadao, Aranyaprathet), and seaports accept visas tourismthailand.org.

• How much does a Thailand visa cost for Saudi citizens? Tourist visa: $40 (1,400 THB); METV: $200 (7,000 THB); extension: $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.

• Can Thai visas be extended? Tourist visas extendable for 30 days ($55); METV allows multiple 60-day entries mfa.go.th.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500 THB/day ($15/day), max 20,000 THB ($570); potential detention or deportation thaiembassy.org.

• Is an e-visa available for Saudi citizens? Check thaievisa.go.th for availability; otherwise, apply at Thai embassies mfa.go.th.

Enhance your visa-prepared Thailand journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Thailand Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.

• Thailand Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.

• Thailand Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Thailand Travel plans.

Mastering Thailand Visa for Saudi Citizens with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sawasdee,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through the Land of Smiles. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Thailand Tours, and attractions like the Grand Palace and Phuket’s beaches, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Saudi travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Thailand Travel, apply for visas early via Thai embassies or check thaievisa.go.th, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• tourismthailand.org

• thaiembassy.org

• mfa.go.th

• travel.state.gov

• culturetrip.com