Traveling from Qatar to Saudi Arabia by road is a very convenient and exciting journey. The land border at Abu Samra provides direct access to Saudi Arabia via Salwa Road. The journey requires the necessary documents, visa, compliance with vehicle restrictions, and knowledge of border crossing procedures. Read below to find out everything you need to know for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Documents required for traveling from Qatar to Saudi Arabia by road

Before you travel, make sure you have the necessary documents to avoid any hassles at the Abu Samra border.

Personal Documents

• Valid QID (check your Qatar ID status)
• Passport with at least six months validity
• Valid Saudi Arabia Visa
• Valid Driving License
• Haya Card (if required for specific events)

Vehicle Documents

• Vehicle Registration (Istimara)
• Letter of Authorization (if the vehicle is not registered in your name)
• Vehicle Insurance (available at Abu Samra Border or via Najm Manafit App)

How to Apply for a Saudi Tourist Visa?

GCC residents can apply for a Saudi Tourist Visa (e-Visa) online or at the Tashir Visa Center in Doha.

Online Visa Application

• Apply through the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia.
• Check eligibility on the Visit Saudi Visa Requirements page.
• Visa Fee: QR 290.59 (excluding medical insurance).
• Medical insurance starts from QR 36.5 ($10).

Visa Application via Tashir Visa Center

Location: Ezdan Mall Gharafa, 2nd Floor

Required Documents:

• Original Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Recent Photograph (white background)
• Copy of QID (valid for at least 3 months)

Application Process:

• Book an appointment online or visit the center in person.
• Submit documents and complete biometrics.
• Passport with visa will be issued within one day.
• Visa Fee: Approximately QR 522 (including visa fee, medical fee, and service charges).

Border Crossing Procedure at Abu Samra

The border crossing process includes immigration, customs clearance, and biometric procedures.

Qatar Border Crossing

• Upon arrival at Abu Samra border, proceed to Qatar Immigration.
• Present your passport, QID, and visa for validation.
• Go to the Qatar Immigration Office

Entering Saudi Arabia

• Drive to the Saudi Immigration and Customs checkpoint.
• Complete biometric verification (fingerprints and eye scan).
• Present your visa, passport, and vehicle documents.
• If required, purchase vehicle insurance at the border.

Once cleared, you can enter Saudi Arabia

Travelling time

Travel times and border processing

• Doha to Abu Samra border: 40 minutes to 1 hour.
• Border crossing time: 2 – 5 hours (varies depending on queue size).
• Border processing times are longer during weekends/holidays.

Cost Description

• Saudi Visa (e-Visa): QR 290.59
• Tashir Visa Center Visa: QR 522
• Vehicle Insurance: QR 116.48 per week
• Fuel Cost: QR 150 – QR 200 (depending on vehicle efficiency)
• Toll Fees: None on major routes

Key Travel Tips

• Plan your trip during off-peak hours to avoid long queues at the border.
• Carry cash in Qatari Riyals (QAR) and Saudi Riyals (SAR).
• Ensure fuel availability at the last Wukood station before the border.
• Check Saudi traffic laws and road speed limits.
• Download maps offline to avoid connectivity issues.
• Check weather conditions before traveling.

Traveling from Qatar to Saudi Arabia by road is a convenient and popular option. From ensuring valid passports and visas to understanding COVID-related protocols, vehicle insurance, and border crossing procedures, preparation is key to a smooth journey. By staying updated on current regulations and carrying all the necessary documents, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free road trip across the GCC.

FAQ

1. Is a visa required to enter Saudi Arabia by road from Qatar?
   Yes, all non-GCC nationals must obtain a valid Saudi visa before traveling.
2. What documents are required for road travel?
   You will need a valid passport, Saudi visa, vehicle registration (istimarah), and insurance.
3. Can I drive a rental car from Qatar to Saudi Arabia?
   This is only possible if the rental company allows cross-border travel and the car has valid insurance for Saudi Arabia.
4. Are there COVID-19 restrictions at the border?
   COVID-related entry rules may apply, so it is important to check current requirements before traveling.
5. Which border crossing is used for this journey?
   The main land border used is the Abu Samra – Salwa border checkpoint.