Some travelers have shared that the new Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa can be applied for online through the official website, which is generally quick and efficient, often processing visas within an hour for eligible nationalities. The e-visa is available for citizens from 49 countries.

For nationalities not eligible for an e-visa, applications must go through traditional channels like the Saudi consulate or through approved travel agents. This often involves a longer process and sometimes requires the application to be sent to the embassy.

Travelers with specific documents, such as a US Refugee Travel Document, might face restrictions and are advised to check directly with Saudi consular services regarding their eligibility for a visa on arrival or the need to apply in advance. Additionally, nationals from countries not listed on the eVisa eligibility list must contact the Saudi embassy or authorized agents to understand their specific visa requirements.

Regarding the visa's validity, it must cover the entire duration of the stay in Saudi Arabia. Overstaying a visa, even within the allowed 90 days per visit, requires careful handling to avoid legal issues or future entry bans.

According to forum posts, an Umrah visa is available to travelers from around the world who do not qualify for a tourist visa. It is valid for three months, allows only a single entry, and can be obtained without packages from countries like the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and other European countries. However, travelers from Asian countries must purchase it with packages. The visa costs approximately £290 to £340.

Some travelers mentioned that applying for an Umrah visa requires the applicant to use the Saudi Visa bio app to scan fingerprints and receive an approval email. Furthermore, a traveler reported that a female under the age of 45 still needs a Mahram (male guardian) listed on her Umrah visa unless she is applying with a tourist visa.

Recent updates from the Saudi Hajj & Umrah Ministry indicate that Umrah is now permissible for all types of visa holders, including tourist, business, work, and family visas. Additionally, no vaccine or PCR test is required, and there is no limit to the number of Umrahs one can perform in a day.

For Hajj travel, it is generally required to have a Hajj visa, which necessitates booking a ticket with specific travel classes compatible with Hajj visas. Travelers have reported that not all airlines accommodate these requirements, so it is crucial to confirm with the airline before booking.

During Hajj, travelers are usually part of a managed group that includes provisions for flights, hotels, and transportation to various rituals. According to forum posts, some travelers experienced confusion and delays with transportation, especially concerning Hajj flights and bus services. Accommodation and tents are typically assigned and can vary greatly in quality and proximity to ritual sites.

Hajj agents play a crucial role in managing the logistics of Hajj travel. Travelers have called out that passports are often held by Hajj agents for the duration of the trip, which can complicate emergency travel situations. Additionally, many users shared that the Hajj package includes detailed arrangements for stays in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, which are essential parts of the Hajj ritual.

Recent changes have seen the introduction of platforms like Nusuk, which handles Hajj applications and logistics. This system has been described by some users as complicated and stressful, with issues such as quick sell-outs of packages and difficulties in navigating the booking process.

According to forum posts, obtaining an e-visa for Umrah is a straightforward process, although you may face issues with photo specifications, which need to be under 200kb. Some travelers mentioned the need to download specific apps like Tawakkalna for health and safety regulations.

Travelers have called out the convenience of booking flights and accommodations through platforms like Booking.com. However, issues like managing transportation between cities in Saudi Arabia can be challenging. For instance, booking tickets for the high-speed train in advance is recommended, as last-minute bookings can be expensive and complicated.

For many users, finding a local guide to assist with Umrah rituals is a common concern. Guides can typically be found near major ritual sites like Safa Marwah. Prices for guides vary, as noted by one user who mentioned a fee of 380 SAR for a guide who assists with all steps and prayers during Umrah.

Solo female travelers expressed concerns about safety. Responses in the forum assure that Saudi Arabia is generally safe for solo female travelers, and many non-Muslim tourists visit without issues. Nonetheless, joining a group or arranging a guide in advance can provide additional security and ease during the trip.

According to forum posts, Al Ula is highly recommended for its archaeological sites, particularly Madain Saleh. Riyadh is suggested for its cultural experiences and infrastructure, offering sites like the Aldari’yah area and the Fortress/Qasr. Jeddah is favored for its distinct vibe, with recommendations to visit the Historic Jeddah area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For natural attractions, some travelers have suggested visiting the mountains near Abha, which may offer cycle tours. Additionally, the Eastern Province cities like Al Khobar, Dammam, and Al Hasa are noted for providing a more authentic and traditional Saudi experience, though they are less tourist-oriented than other cities.

Campervan rentals in Riyadh seem to be limited or non-existent based on forum discussions. Travelers have struggled to find companies that rent campervans, though some do sell them.

Regarding cross-border rentals, options are restricted, especially for non-GCC residents. Some companies, like Lumirental, are mentioned but have mixed reviews and specific limitations. One strategy used by travelers is to rent a car within Saudi Arabia and then use other transportation means, like a bus or a hired car, for cross-border travel.

In smaller cities like Najran, car rental options are scarce. Travelers suggest checking Google Maps for rental locations in nearby larger cities such as Abha, which offers more choices. Booking in advance is recommended to secure a rental and potentially get better pricing.

The overall experience of renting cars at major locations like airports in Riyadh is generally positive with several companies available. However, specific recommendations or standout companies are not frequently mentioned in the discussions.

Non-Muslims can visit the city of Medina, but there are restrictions on accessing certain sacred sites. According to forum posts, non-Muslims are specifically prohibited from entering the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque and the immediate surrounding areas, which are considered highly sacred.

Travelers have called out that non-Muslims can stay in hotels within Medina without facing religious restrictions. It's noted that while the central religious sites are off-limits, the rest of the city, including many hotels, shops, and restaurants, is accessible.

Some visitors have noted a respectful and welcoming atmosphere in Medina, even as non-Muslims. They mentioned being able to explore the city and enjoy local hospitality, highlighting that understanding and respecting local customs and restrictions is key to a positive experience.

According to forum posts, the Haramain Train permits each passenger in both business and economy classes to carry one checked-in bag weighing up to 25 kg, with dimensions not exceeding 65 cm x 55 cm x 35 cm. Additionally, passengers are allowed one small handbag, which can include items like a backpack, laptop bag, camera bag, or similar.

Travelers have called out that any luggage exceeding these dimensions or the weight limit may need to be sent via Saudi Post at an additional cost and is usually delivered to the destination station the next day. This service has led to some dissatisfaction among passengers due to the inconvenience, especially when immediate access to luggage is necessary after arrival.

Some travelers said that enforcement of luggage policies on the Haramain Train can be inconsistent. While some passengers have reported strict adherence to the rules, others noted lax enforcement, depending on factors like the time of travel and the discretion of the staff. This inconsistency has resulted in confusion and a gamble on whether oversized or extra luggage will be accepted without the need for postal dispatch.