THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK
Make the destination fit the actual trip
As reviewed on 6 September 2026, Saudi ordinary-passport holders remain covered by Thailand’s 60-day visa exemption for entry before 15 September 2026. From 15 September 2026, Thailand’s official revised scheme lists Saudi Arabia for a 30-day tourist visa exemption. Every non-Thai traveller entering Thailand must also submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card within three days before arrival.
Apply the rule for the arrival date
Thailand is moving from the existing scheme to a revised exemption on 15 September 2026. The applicable stay depends on the actual date of entry and passport nationality.
- Before 15 September 2026: the current 60-day exemption applies to Saudi ordinary passports.
- From 15 September 2026: the revised official list provides a 30-day tourist exemption.
- Saudi residents using another passport must check that nationality.
Complete the TDAC before arrival
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is required for non-Thai nationals entering by air, land or sea and is separate from a visa or visa exemption.
- Submit it online within three days before arrival, including arrival day.
- Use passport and trip details exactly as booked.
- Travellers remaining in transit without immigration are exempt.
Carry evidence for the complete trip
Visa-free travel does not guarantee admission. Border officers can review identity, purpose, accommodation and onward travel.
- Carry a valid passport and onward or return itinerary.
- Keep accommodation and trip-purpose details available.
- Use the official e-Visa route when the exemption does not fit.
OFFICIAL SOURCES
Verify before travel
Entry rules can change. Review the source that applies to the traveller and route before booking and again shortly before departure.
BEFORE YOU CONFIRM
Final planning checklist
- Arrival date matched to the correct exemption
- Passport nationality checked
- TDAC submitted in the official window
- Accommodation and onward travel available
- Official rule rechecked shortly before departure
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Do Saudi citizens need a visa for Thailand?
For tourism, Saudi ordinary-passport holders are covered by visa exemption. The official permitted period changes from 60 days to 30 days for entries from 15 September 2026.
Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card a visa?
No. TDAC is an arrival form and does not replace a visa or visa exemption. It is required for non-Thai travellers entering Thailand, subject to the official transit exception.
When should the TDAC be submitted?
Thailand Immigration states that it should be submitted within three days before arrival, including the arrival date.