- The best travel insurance plans for Saudi Arabia
- Is it currently safe to travel toi Saudi Arabia?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Saudi Arabia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
- What should travel insurance for Saudi Arabia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Saudi Arabia
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Saudi Arabia
- Does my current insurance cover me in Saudi Arabia?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Saudi Arabia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Saudi Arabia covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is mandatory for Australians to enter Saudi Arabia and is included with the eVisa.
3. Minimum coverage: The mandatory insurance included with the visa provides a pre-determined level of medical coverage.
4. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is expensive; a private hospital stay can cost over AUD $1,200 per night.
5. Price: A one-week comprehensive policy from Australia typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $80.
6. Good to know: The mandatory visa insurance offers basic cover; consider comprehensive top-up insurance from Australia.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Saudi Arabia.
The best travel insurance plans for Saudi Arabia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | Our recommendation for travel to Saudi Arabia. - high medical and hospital cover - strong repatriation guarantee - COVID-19 included |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | A reliable policy for challenging destinations. - 24/7 emergency help - generous reimbursement ceiling - clear conditions |
| Tourist Card | AUD 800k | Suitable for tourism in Saudi Arabia. - solid medical limit - hospital and ambulance cover - competitive rate |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Provides well-rounded protection for your trip. - hospitalisation covered - broad repatriation scope - essential guarantees |
| Globe Partner | AUD 480k | Dependable choice for international stays. - covers medical care abroad - repatriation included - straightforward claims |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 800k | Good option for short trips to Saudi Arabia. - essential medical cover - quick reimbursement - uncomplicated benefits |
- high medical and hospital cover
- strong repatriation guarantee
- COVID-19 included
- 24/7 emergency help
- generous reimbursement ceiling
- clear conditions
- solid medical limit
- hospital and ambulance cover
- competitive rate
- hospitalisation covered
- broad repatriation scope
- essential guarantees
- covers medical care abroad
- repatriation included
- straightforward claims
- essential medical cover
- quick reimbursement
- uncomplicated benefits
Is it currently safe to travel toi Saudi Arabia?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia, due to the continued risk of terrorist attacks and missile or drone incidents, particularly near the Yemen border.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorist threats remain a priority concern, especially in public places like airports or major events. Areas within 30km of the Yemen border are strictly off-limits due to ongoing armed conflict.
- Health risks: several diseases such as MERS-CoV, dengue, malaria, and leishmaniasis are present. Healthcare is of high quality in cities but expensive, and medical evacuation from rural areas can be logistically complex.
- Legal requirements: alcohol is strictly banned throughout Saudi Arabia, and possessing or using it is a criminal offence. Laws regarding public conduct, such as criticism of the state or religion, are strictly enforced, leading to arrest if breached.
- Cultural norms: travellers must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious areas. Only Muslims are permitted entry to Makkah and Madinah; violating this can result in deportation.
Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Saudi Arabia. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Australian travellers to enter Saudi Arabia.
All visitors except residents must have medical insurance covering COVID-19 treatment to enter the country. For Australian citizens, this coverage is automatically included when purchasing an eVisa, which is required for entry. The insurance must cover hospitalisation, medical care, and repatriation for the duration of the stay.
Why take out travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Saudi Arabia.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Saudi Arabia.
Healthcare costs in Saudi Arabia can be high, especially for foreign travellers who often use private clinics such as Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital in Riyadh or King Faisal Specialist Hospital. In Jeddah and Dammam, access to quality medical care is mainly through private facilities, where fees are significant.
Travel insurance covers essential protections such as medical expenses, hospitalisation costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to Australia if there is a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Saudi Arabia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 7,000 SAR (2,900 AUD) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 10,000 SAR (4,200 AUD) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I need to be repatriated | 120,000 SAR (50,000 AUD) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 18,000 SAR (7,500 AUD) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Saudi Arabia cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, hospitalisation, medication, and emergencies due to illness or accident. Recommended: at least AUD 1,000,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Medical evacuation and repatriation | Covers air ambulance, medical transfer, and flight home if needed after a severe incident. Recommended: at least AUD 500,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💼 Personal belongings and baggage | Protects against loss, theft, or damage to luggage and valuables. Recommended: at least AUD 5,000–8,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 🧑⚖️ Personal liability | Covers compensation if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Recommended: at least AUD 1,500,000. | 🟡 Optional |
| 🏨 Trip cancellation or curtailment | Refunds non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel or interrupt your travel due to an unforeseen reason. Recommended: at least AUD 10,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 💊 COVID-19 and infectious disease | Covers detection, quarantine costs, and treatment if you contract COVID-19 (required by regulations). Recommended: at least AUD 100,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚗 Rental car excess | Provides reimbursement for excess amounts after an accident in a hire vehicle. Recommended: at least AUD 5,000. | 🟡 Optional |
Recommended: at least AUD 1,000,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 500,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 5,000–8,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 1,500,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 10,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 100,000.
Recommended: at least AUD 5,000.
Important information
Travel insurance is legally required for entry to Saudi Arabia on a tourist eVisa. It must include coverage for medical expenses, hospitalisation, and repatriation, including COVID-19 treatment. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire stay and the certificate should be presented at the border if requested.
Travel insurance from local providers or credit cards often has low limits and many exclusions, especially for high medical or repatriation costs. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Saudi Arabia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 45 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 75 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 105 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 190 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance depends on several factors: your age, your destination, the duration of your trip, the level of cover you need, and any pre-existing medical conditions. It's important to keep these in mind to ensure you get the right policy for your travels at the best possible price.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Saudi Arabia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Saudi Arabia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🕒 Length of stay | Longer trips generally increase insurance cost, especially in higher-risk destinations like Saudi Arabia. | Buy coverage only for the exact dates of your trip. Avoid unnecessary extension for unused days. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Premiums rise with age, especially over 60, due to higher health risks in Saudi Arabia. | Compare offers. The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Essential for Saudi Arabia due to required medical protections and high treatment costs. | Select the minimum coverage that still meets official Saudi Arabia entry rules for medical and COVID-19 expenses. |
| 🦠 Pre-existing conditions | Some policies may exclude medical costs if you have chronic conditions, which are important for travel in Saudi Arabia. | Disclose only required medical history and check if exclusions apply. Opt for policies with basic coverage if accepted. |
| 👨👩👧 Group policy | Group or family plans can offer discounts compared to single policies per person. | Apply as a family or group to benefit from lower per-person rates. |
| 💳 Online comparison | Some Australian insurers offer better prices via comparison tools for Saudi Arabia, not directly on their websites. | Use a comparison platform to identify and select the best value-for-money deals. |
Important
Travel insurance is mandatory for entry to Saudi Arabia. The policy must cover medical treatment, hospitalisation and repatriation, including COVID-19, for the entire stay. Check if your certificate is in English and valid for immigration controls.
Does my current insurance cover me in Saudi Arabia?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing insurance—such as public health insurance, private health insurance, or a credit card—will protect you during a trip to Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient. Travel insurance is legally mandatory for Australian travellers entering Saudi Arabia, as only it meets embassy requirements. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Saudi Arabia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | No overseas cover for health expenses or repatriation. No compensation for flight or baggage delay. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 10,000,000 for health, repatriation, COVID-19, and includes assistance services. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Medical emergency coverage abroad may apply, max AUD 100,000. No repatriation, minimal baggage loss, no delays cover. | Travel insurance provides higher limits (up to AUD 10,000,000) for emergencies, plus trip disruption and loss cover. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Westpac Lite) | Limited coverage | May cover some travel accidents and baggage up to AUD 3,000. No medical evacuation, strict activation requirements. | Travel insurance offers health, repatriation, cancellation, with higher max cover and no minimum spend required. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, NAB Qantas Rewards Premium, Commonwealth Bank Platinum Awards) | Limited coverage | Overseas medical up to AUD 250,000 and delays. Some exclusions. No COVID-19 cover, activation minimums apply. | Travel insurance allows for COVID-19 cover, higher health, trip interruption, and personal liability up to AUD 10,000,000. |
Example
During a desert safari near Riyadh, Jack suffered severe heatstroke, requiring intensive care. The hospital bill reached AU$45,000. His Westpac debit card provided no cover, and the basic mandatory visa insurance had a low limit, leaving him to personally fund a crippling AU$38,000 for his emergency medical treatment.
Expert advice
Many bank card and health insurance policies exclude crucial cover like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read the fine print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
Australian citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism or business. Most travellers obtain the Saudi eVisa, which is valid for multiple entries and allows a stay of up to 90 days within a one-year period. You can apply online or upon arrival at select entry points.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Start by comparing policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool for the best options. Review coverage limits and exclusions for Saudi Arabia, making sure they include medical and COVID-19 cover. Buy your chosen policy online and receive your certificate instantly, required for entry into Saudi Arabia.
What is included in travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Travel insurance for Saudi Arabia usually includes medical expenses, emergency evacuation, hospitalisation, and repatriation, with common medical cover limits up to AUD 10,000,000. It should also cover COVID-19 treatment as this is a legal entry requirement. Optional cover might include baggage loss and personal liability.
How much does travel insurance for Saudi Arabia cost?
The price varies based on age, trip duration, and chosen cover but typically ranges between AUD 120 and AUD 300 per person for two weeks. Prices may increase for comprehensive policies or travellers with pre-existing medical conditions.
Are there specific health risks to consider when travelling to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia has regional risks such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), malaria in the south-west, and extreme heat during summer. Make sure your insurance covers hospitalisation and medical evacuation, as advanced care may require evacuation or special arrangements.
Can I buy travel insurance after I have left Australia for Saudi Arabia?
Most insurers require that you purchase travel insurance before your departure from Australia. Some international insurers may allow cover after departure, but benefits are often reduced, and waiting periods may apply. Always check policy conditions before purchasing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
Australian citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism or business. Most travellers obtain the Saudi eVisa, which is valid for multiple entries and allows a stay of up to 90 days within a one-year period. You can apply online or upon arrival at select entry points.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Start by comparing policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool for the best options. Review coverage limits and exclusions for Saudi Arabia, making sure they include medical and COVID-19 cover. Buy your chosen policy online and receive your certificate instantly, required for entry into Saudi Arabia.
What is included in travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Travel insurance for Saudi Arabia usually includes medical expenses, emergency evacuation, hospitalisation, and repatriation, with common medical cover limits up to AUD 10,000,000. It should also cover COVID-19 treatment as this is a legal entry requirement. Optional cover might include baggage loss and personal liability.
How much does travel insurance for Saudi Arabia cost?
The price varies based on age, trip duration, and chosen cover but typically ranges between AUD 120 and AUD 300 per person for two weeks. Prices may increase for comprehensive policies or travellers with pre-existing medical conditions.
Are there specific health risks to consider when travelling to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia has regional risks such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), malaria in the south-west, and extreme heat during summer. Make sure your insurance covers hospitalisation and medical evacuation, as advanced care may require evacuation or special arrangements.
Can I buy travel insurance after I have left Australia for Saudi Arabia?
Most insurers require that you purchase travel insurance before your departure from Australia. Some international insurers may allow cover after departure, but benefits are often reduced, and waiting periods may apply. Always check policy conditions before purchasing.
