Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant transformation in its visa and residency policies, aligning with its ambitious Vision 2030 objectives. The country is making strides to become a global hub for tourism, investment, and businesswhile improving the overall experience for expatriates, visitors, and foreign investors. As we look toward 2026, several new developments in Saudi Arabia's visa policies and systems will reshape the landscape for travel, business, and residence. Let's dive into the key trends and changes expected to take effect.
In a move that makes Saudi Arabia more accessible for religious tourism and leisure travelers, the Kingdom has revamped its Umrah visa regulations. Starting in 2026, travelers will be allowed to perform Umrah under any visa type, thus eliminating the need for a specific Umrah visa. This is a significant step in simplifying the process for Muslims around the world who want to visit Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage purposes. However, there will still be specific guidelines to follow, such as booking accommodations through the Nusuk platform before applying for an Umrah visa.
This change means that visitors will have more flexibility in their travel plans, with easier access to perform Umrahwithout the constraints of having to apply for a special visa. The new rules are expected to be implemented during the 2026 Umrah season, with pilgrims being able to enter the country between April 13 and April 29, 2026, to perform the pilgrimage .
In another major shift, Saudi Arabia will begin allowing foreigners to purchase property in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah starting in January 2026. This long-awaited reform will end the ban on foreign property ownership in the Kingdom, a move aimed at attracting foreign investment and diversifying the economy. Foreign nationals will now have the ability to buy property outright in certain locations without needing a local sponsor.
This reform is not just a win for investors but also opens up new opportunities for expatriates who wish to establish permanent residence in the Kingdom. With the increase in real estate opportunities, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global investment hub for both individuals and companies looking to capitalize on the growing market .
One of the most significant labor reforms in Saudi Arabia came in 2025 with the abolition of the Kafala system. This labor sponsorship system, which previously tied migrant workers to individual employers, has been replaced with a more flexible system that grants foreign workers greater rights and mobility. This new framework allows workers to change jobs, leave the country, and engage in contract work without needing approval from their sponsors.
This reform benefits millions of foreign workers residing in Saudi Arabia, as it allows for more freedom and mobility. The Kafala system had long been criticized for its restrictions and exploitation of migrant workers, and its removal marks a significant step toward improving the rights and well-being of the workforce .
Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency Program, commonly known as the Golden Visa, is also expected to see changes in 2026. The program, which provides permanent residency to high-net-worth individuals, is becoming more accessible. This residency program offers various benefits, including tax advantages, business incentives, and residency without the need for a sponsor.
However, unlike some regional counterparts, Saudi Arabia's Golden Visa program does not offer citizenship and maintains high investment thresholds. Despite this, the program offers lucrative benefits for qualified applicants, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in the Kingdom while enjoying exclusive privileges .
In a bid to enhance the visitor experience and offer more leniency to those staying in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia introduced a 30-day grace period for expired visit visas. This policy was implemented as part of the Hijri New Year celebrations and allows visitors to stay in the country legally for an additional 30 days without incurring penalties. This move highlights the government's commitment to providing flexibility to tourists and expatriates, making their stay more convenient, especially when travel plans are delayed .
In line with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has made strides in integrating digital payments into its visa systems. The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has announced the launch of Google Pay and its strategic agreement with Alipay+ by 2026. These advancements are expected to revolutionize the way transactions are processed in the Kingdom, making financial transactions more seamless and secure for both foreigners and local residents.
The increased availability of digital payment systems will also make it easier for visitors and expatriates to pay for goods, services, and visa-related fees without relying on traditional cash methods. This digital shift supports Saudi Arabia's goal of becoming a cashless society in the coming years .