Plan your Thailand adventure as a Saudi tourist with our guide! Learn visa exemptions, e-visa applications, entry procedures, eco-friendly Thailand Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Thailand Travel. Start your journey today!
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market near Bangkok (Source: Internet)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 thaiembassy.org, thaievisa.go.th, tourismthailand.org, travel.state.gov, and culturetrip.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Thailand’s updated travel regulations.
Saudi tourists, please note: Saudi citizens are eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) at designated Thai airports and land borders. Alternatively, apply for an e-visa online via thaievisa.go.th for faster processing. This guide details visa options, entry procedures, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Thailand.
Thailand, the “Land of Smiles,” is a top destination for Saudi tourists, offering cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Wat Arun, and Phuket’s beaches, alongside vibrant markets and festivals. Understanding visa requirements ensures smooth entry for Saudi travelers, whether joining guided Thailand Tours or traveling independently. Saudi citizens benefit from Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-visa options, facilitating entry through Thailand’s 8 international airports, 32 land borders, and 10 seaports tourismthailand.org. This guide provides practical visa insights, entry tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Thailand Travel options for Saudi tourists.
Following Thailand’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via major entry points like Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) and land borders like Aranyaprathet (Cambodia). This guide blends visa requirements, entry procedures, and sustainable Thailand Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Saudi tourists can use Visa on Arrival (VOA) at designated airports and land borders (15 days, 2,000 THB) or apply for e-visas ($40–$80 or 1,400–2,800 THB) for longer stays. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like the Grand Palace cost 500 THB; guided tours range from $15–$80 (500–2,800 THB). Temporary residence registration is not required for short stays. Verify visa requirements and entry procedures via thaievisa.go.th or thaiembassy.org.
Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Purpose: Tourism or short business visits.
Eligibility: Saudi citizens at 8 airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket) and select land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Padang Besar) thaievisa.go.th.
Duration: Up to 15 days (non-extendable) thaievisa.go.th.
Cost: 2,000 THB (payable in cash only; no credit cards) tourismthailand.org.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket within 15 days); proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking); minimum funds of 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family (cash or bank statement) thaiembassy.org.
Application Process:
Arrive at designated VOA counter at airport or land border thaievisa.go.th.
Complete TM.88 arrival card and VOA application form (provided on-site) tourismthailand.org.
Submit passport, photo (4x6 cm, taken on-site for 100 THB if needed), proof of onward travel, accommodation, and funds thaievisa.go.th.
Pay 2,000 THB in cash; receive visa sticker in passport thaiembassy.org.
Proceed to immigration for entry stamp tourismthailand.org.
Processing Time: 15–60 minutes; longer during peak seasons thaievisa.go.th.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit to a neighboring country (e.g., Cambodia, Laos) and re-entry with new VOA or e-visa thaiembassy.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 8 airports, select land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet), and some seaports thaievisa.go.th.
E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Convenience):
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for stays exceeding 15 days or for convenience.
Eligibility: Saudi citizens via thaievisa.go.th thaievisa.go.th.
Duration: Up to 60 days (single entry) or 60 days per visit (multiple entry, valid 6 months) thaievisa.go.th.
Cost: $40 (1,400 THB) for single entry; $80 (2,800 THB) for multiple entry; non-refundable thaievisa.go.th.
Application Process:
Visit thaievisa.go.th, select English, and click “Apply for E-Visa” thaievisa.go.th.
Create an account with email and password thaievisa.go.th.
Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry checkpoint like Suvarnabhumi), and accommodation in Thailand thaiembassy.org.
Upload digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses) and passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB thaievisa.go.th.
Pay the fee ($40 or $80) via credit/debit card; note the reference number thaievisa.go.th.
Check status at thaievisa.go.th/e-visa/search using reference number and email; download and print the e-visa PDF thaievisa.go.th.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the entry checkpoint; ensure details match exactly travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 350–1,050 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days at Thai immigration offices (1,900 THB fee) thaievisa.go.th.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at all 8 airports, 32 land borders, and 10 seaports thaievisa.go.th.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for specific needs or longer stays.
Eligibility: Saudi citizens at Thai embassies (e.g., Riyadh, Jeddah) thaiembassy.org.
Duration: 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas thaiembassy.org.
Cost: $30–$100 (1,050–3,500 THB), depending on visa type and processing time thaiembassy.org.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Thai embassy thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable for 1–3 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($55 or 1,900 THB) thaievisa.go.th.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Thailand’s immigration laws thaievisa.go.th.
Overstay penalties: 500 THB/day ($14/day); potential detention or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: Saudi tourists prefer e-visas for convenience and to avoid VOA queues; VOA is cash-only (2,000 THB) thaievisa.go.th.
Airports (8): Major entry points include Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), Don Mueang (Bangkok), and Phuket; immigration open 24/7 tourismthailand.org.
Land Borders (32): Popular checkpoints include Aranyaprathet (Cambodia, near Poipet), Padang Besar (Malaysia), and Sadao (Malaysia). Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM (some 24/7); expect immigration queues during peak seasons thaievisa.go.th.
Seaports (10): Key ports include Phuket and Laem Chabang; used for cruise travelers tourismthailand.org.
Requirements at Entry: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa (if required) or VOA documents; ensure details match passport to avoid entry issues thaievisa.go.th.
Cultural etiquette ensures a respectful experience during Thailand Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “sawasdee” (hello) with a wai (palms pressed together); use both hands for transactions at entry points or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temples like the Grand Palace or Wat Arun; a lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB) aligns with Thai norms and is essential for sacred sites culturetrip.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a quiet demeanor in temples and during cultural events; avoid touching Buddha statues or offerings; ask permission before photographing monks or locals, especially during festivals like Songkran. A guest shared: “Respecting Thai customs made our trip profound.”
Customs: Avoid public criticism of the monarchy to prevent legal issues (lèse-majesté laws, up to 15 years imprisonment); respect temple rules (remove shoes, cover shoulders); tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB) culturetrip.com.
Tip: Say “khob khun” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like carrying reusable water bottles ($4 or 120 THB) to support sustainable Thailand Travel; stay mindful in crowded areas. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen respectful travellers thrive in Thailand’s vibrant culture.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 60 THB) for Thai basics like “khob khun”; English is common in tourist areas but limited among locals culturetrip.com.
Respect: Avoid drugs (severe penalties apply); respect temple and cultural etiquette; stay updated via tourismthailand.org.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with key locations like “Bangkok” or “Grand Palace” for navigation.
Eco-Tip: Opt for songthaews ($1–$2 or 30–60 THB) or bicycles ($5–$10/day or 150–300 THB) to reduce emissions, aligning with Thailand’s green tourism goals.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from tourismthailand.org, thaievisa.go.th, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, or Phuket’s beaches independently after VOA or e-visa entry; suitable for prepared travelers; low to moderate difficulty tourismthailand.org.
Visa Tips: Use VOA (15 days, 2,000 THB) or e-visas ($40–$80); carry printed e-visa or VOA documents; ensure funds (10,000 THB/person) thaievisa.go.th.
Schedule: Daily; Grand Palace open 8:30 AM–3:30 PM (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (30 THB); Phuket beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: 30–500 THB; transport (songthaew: $1–$2 or 30–60 THB; bicycle: $5–$10/day or 150–300 THB); local purchases: $0.50–$20 (15–600 THB).
Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Thailand.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use songthaews or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm VOA eligibility or apply for e-visas early; check thaievisa.go.th; a guest from Riyadh noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after VOA at Suvarnabhumi.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Arun after VOA or e-visa entry; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Bangkok hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid VOA or e-visa; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with entry checks thaievisa.go.th.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Bangkok hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (850–1,400 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 guest from Jeddah noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and a local market after VOA or e-visa entry; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Chiang Mai, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility thaievisa.go.th.
Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 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 local transport reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Thailand partner sites); a guest from Dammam noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket after VOA or e-visa entry; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm funds for VOA thaievisa.go.th.
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 guest from Medina noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Saudi tourists with VOA or e-visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities 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: Typically April, Thailand’s New Year with water festivals; warm (28–35°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.
Loy Krathong: Typically November, lantern festival; cool (24–30°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.
Year-Round Opportunities: Cool season (November–February, 24–30°C) is best; wet season (June–October) suits indoor activities.
Cool season (November–February, 24–30°C) is ideal for mild weather and cultural visits. Hot season (March–May, 28–35°C) requires early morning outings. Wet season (June–October, 25–32°C) brings rain (0.1–17 mm/day); focus on indoor sites like Central Market. Morning entries (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Saudi citizens use VOA (15 days, 2,000 THB) at airports/land borders or e-visas ($40–$80) at thaievisa.go.th; embassy visas for specific needs thaiembassy.org.
Entry Tips: Choose major airports like Suvarnabhumi or land borders like Aranyaprathet for smoother immigration; carry printed e-visa or VOA documents (proof of funds, accommodation, onward travel); expect queues at peak times thaievisa.go.th.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; keep proof of onward travel and funds for VOA travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for songthaews or bicycles after entry for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for e-visas 7–14 days early; carry 2,000 THB cash for VOA; double-check details to match passport; check visa status at thaievisa.go.th. For embassy visas, contact Thai Embassy in Riyadh (+966 11 480 8855) or Jeddah (+966 12 663 0202).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($40–$80 or 1,400–2,800 THB if required) or VOA documents (proof of funds 10,000 THB, accommodation, onward travel), passport photocopy, wallet ($5–$8 or 150–250 THB), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($5 or 150 THB) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 100 THB) for cool season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 100 THB); hat ($5 or 150 THB).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($4 or 120 THB); snacks ($0.50–$2 or 15–60 THB, e.g., pad thai); small backpack ($5 or 150 THB); sunscreen ($3 or 100 THB); insect repellent ($3 or 100 THB).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($10–$15 or 300–500 THB); local SIM ($5–$7 or 150–200 THB); waterproof camera ($50 or 1,500 THB) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 100 THB) for purchases; phrase card ($2 or 60 THB) with Thai basics.
Extras: Small THB notes for VOA or purchases; small first aid kit ($5 or 150 THB); umbrella ($5 or 150 THB) for wet season; money belt ($5 or 150 THB) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa and Travel Costs
VOA Costs: 2,000 THB (cash only) for 15 days thaievisa.go.th.
E-Visa Costs: Single entry: $40 (1,400 THB); multiple entry: $80 (2,800 THB); expedited processing: $10–$30 (350–1,050 THB) thaievisa.go.th.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$100 (1,050–3,500 THB), depending on visa type and processing time thaiembassy.org.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: 30–500 THB; transport (songthaew: $1–$2 or 30–60 THB; bicycle: $5–$10/day or 150–300 THB).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (850–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure 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: $5 (150 THB).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $5–$7 (150–200 THB).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (350–1,050 THB). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., pad thai, som tam): $0.50–$2 (15–60 THB).
Souvenirs (e.g., silk, crafts): $0.50–$20 (15–600 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; $0.50–$20 for purchases or add-ons; use VOA to save on application fees.
Visa Tips: Use VOA (15 days, 2,000 THB cash) at airports/land borders or e-visas ($40–$80) at thaievisa.go.th; carry proof of funds (10,000 THB), accommodation, and onward travel for VOA; double-check details to match passport thaievisa.go.th.
Entry Tips: Choose major airports like Suvarnabhumi or land borders like Aranyaprathet for smoother immigration; enter early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or VOA documents tourismthailand.org.
Etiquette: Use “sawasdee”; dress modestly for temples; respect border 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: Airports open 24/7; land borders open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in cool season (November–February); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use songthaews or bicycles; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for entry points or cities like Bangkok.
Weather: Cool season (Nov–Feb, 24–30°C) ideal; hot season (Mar–May, 28–35°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Jun–Oct, 25–32°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via accuweather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($5 or 150 THB); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 191, Tourist Police: 1155).
Do Saudi tourists need a visa for Thailand? Yes, Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 15 days (2,000 THB) or e-visa for longer stays ($40–$80) thaievisa.go.th.
Which entry points accept VOA for Saudis? 8 airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Phuket) and select land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet) thaievisa.go.th.
How much does a Thailand visa cost for Saudis? VOA: 2,000 THB; e-visa: $40 (single) or $80 (multiple); embassy visa: $30–$100 thaievisa.go.th.
Can visas be extended in Thailand? VOA non-extendable; e-visas extendable for 30 days (1,900 THB) at immigration offices thaievisa.go.th.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500 THB/day ($14/day); potential detention or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is e-visa recommended for Saudis? Yes, for convenience and to avoid VOA queues; apply at thaievisa.go.th thaiembassy.org.
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 Tourists 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 beaches, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Saudi travelers. Whether choosing VOA (2,000 THB) or e-visas via thaievisa.go.th, plan ahead and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
thaievisa.go.th
thaiembassy.org
tourismthailand.org
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
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