If you are planning to travel to Malaysia from Saudi Arabia, you may need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within 72 hours before your arrival. The process involves providing the required information and submitting the MDAC before you travel.
However, many travelers have questions about the MDAC, including whether it is the same as a Malaysia visa, who needs to complete it, and how to submit it correctly.
In this guide, we will explain the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card requirements, the application process, and the key things Saudi travelers should know before arriving in Malaysia.
What Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an online pre-arrival registration form required for most foreign travelers entering Malaysia. It is administered by the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
Eligible travelers must complete the MDAC online within three days before their scheduled arrival in Malaysia.
When completing the MDAC, travelers need to provide information such as their personal details, passport information, travel dates, and accommodation details in Malaysia.
The information is submitted online before arrival.
Certain travelers are exempt from completing the MDAC, including Malaysian permanent residents and some categories of long-term pass holders, diplomatic and official passport holders, and travelers covered by specific border or frequent-traveler arrangements.
Travelers should check the latest exemption rules before completing the form, as requirements can change.
Malaysia introduced the MDAC system in December 2023, with the requirement taking effect for applicable foreign visitors from January 1, 2024.
The digital system replaced the traditional paper arrival card and allows travelers to submit their arrival information before reaching the immigration checkpoint.
Do Saudi Travelers Need to Complete the MDAC?
Yes. Saudi travelers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before entering Malaysia.
Saudi passport holders do not need a visa for eligible short visits to Malaysia. However, visa-free entry does not remove the MDAC requirement.
Saudi travelers must submit the MDAC online within three days before their scheduled arrival in Malaysia. The MDAC is free when completed through the official Malaysian Immigration portal.
Saudi travelers can also use Malaysia’s automated e-gates at eligible entry points. First-time users must complete passport verification and biometric enrollment at a manual immigration counter. After this one-time enrollment, eligible travelers can use the e-gates on future trips.
Before traveling, check your passport validity and make sure the details in your MDAC match your travel documents. Keep your submitted MDAC details available in case immigration officials ask for them.
The MDAC is only an arrival registration. It does not replace a visa when a visa is required for a particular nationality, travel purpose, or stay.
Certain travelers are exempt from completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). They include:
- Citizens of Singapore
- Malaysian permanent residents and long-term pass holders
- Holders of diplomatic and official passports
- Transit passengers who do not need to clear Malaysian immigration
- Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS) sticker holders
- Brunei citizens holding a General Certificate of Identity (GCI) or participating in the Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility
- Thailand Border Pass holders
- Indonesia cross-border pass (PLB) holders
All other foreign visitors, including visa-free travelers, must complete the MDAC before arriving in Malaysia. The MDAC application is free when submitted through the official Malaysian Immigration portal.
Information Required to Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card
You need to provide the following information when completing the MDAC form on the official website:
- Passport Details: Enter your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, sex, and passport expiry date. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
- Contact Information: Provide an active email address and phone number, including the country code.
- Travel Information: Enter your arrival and departure dates, mode of travel, flight or vessel number, and last port of embarkation.
- Accommodation Details: Provide the name and full address of your hotel or other place of stay in Malaysia. Include the state and postal code.
How to Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card from Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Visit the Official MDAC Portal
Go to the official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) portal.
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Details
Enter your full name as shown on your passport. Add your passport number, nationality, date of birth, sex, passport expiry date, email address, and mobile number.
Step 3: Enter Your Travel Details
Provide your arrival and departure dates, mode of travel, flight or vessel number, last port of embarkation, and accommodation details in Malaysia.
Step 4: Review Your Information
Check all the details carefully. Make sure they match your passport and travel documents.
Step 5: Submit the Form
Submit the MDAC form online. The submission is free.
Step 6: Keep Your Submission Details
Save your confirmation or PIN details after submission. You can keep a digital copy or screenshot on your phone and carry it with you when you travel.
When Should Saudi Travellers Submit the MDAC?
Saudi travellers should complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before their arrival in Malaysia. The Malaysian Immigration Department currently requires visitors to submit the MDAC within this period.
You can prepare your passport, flight details, and accommodation information in advance. However, submit the MDAC only within the permitted three-day window before your scheduled arrival.
Do not wait until you reach the airport. Complete the form before your trip. This gives you time to check your details and correct any mistakes before travelling.
If your travel plans change after you submit the MDAC, check the form and update your details if required. Make sure your MDAC information matches your new travel plans.
The submission window and other MDAC rules can change. Check the official Malaysian Immigration portal before your trip for the latest requirements.
MDAC vs Malaysia Visa: What’s the Difference?
|
Feature |
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) |
Malaysia Visa (eVISA / Standard Visa) |
|
Primary Purpose |
Digital pre-arrival immigration declaration form. |
Legal authorization allowing entry and stay in Malaysia. |
|
Who Needs It? |
Mandatory for all foreign visitors (except Malaysian PRs, diplomatic passport holders, and specific border pass holders). |
Required only for passport holders whose nationality does NOT have a visa-exemption agreement with Malaysia. |
|
When to Apply |
Complete within 3 days prior to arrival in Malaysia. |
Apply 2–4 weeks before travel to allow processing time. |
|
Cost |
Free of charge. |
Paid (fees vary depending on visa type and nationality). |
|
Key Information Included |
Traveler details, passport info, flight numbers, length of stay, and accommodation address. |
Personal background, supporting travel documents, financial proof, and official approval status. |
|
Interchangeability |
No — filling out the MDAC does not grant entry or act as a substitute for a visa. |
No — having a valid visa does not exempt you from completing the MDAC before travel. |
What Happens After You Submit the MDAC?
After you submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), you will receive an email with your confirmation and PIN code.
Save the MDAC PDF or take a screenshot of the confirmation page, and keep it available on your phone while travelling.
At Malaysian immigration, officers may ask for your passport and other travel documents. They may also check your accommodation, return or onward travel, and other entry requirements. Completing the MDAC does not guarantee entry into Malaysia.
The final decision rests with the Malaysian immigration authorities after they complete their checks.
What Should Saudi Travellers Check Before Travelling to Malaysia?
Before travelling to Malaysia, check that your passport is valid and that your MDAC details match your passport and travel plans. Make sure you submit the MDAC within the required time and keep your confirmation and PIN available.
Also, check your flight, accommodation, and the latest Malaysian entry requirements before departure.
If you need visa support or assistance for your travel to other destinations, The Visa Guy provides visa services for 100+ countries, including Schengen countries, the UK, and the US. You can contact The Visa Guy for help with your visa requirements and application process.
Please note: The Visa Guy does not provide Malaysia Digital Arrival Card assistance for Saudi travelers. This blog is for informational purposes only.
FAQ’s
Do Saudi citizens need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?
Yes. Saudi citizens must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before travelling to Malaysia, unless they fall under one of the official exemption categories.
Do Saudi residents with an Iqama need to complete MDAC?
Yes. Saudi residents travelling to Malaysia must complete the MDAC if they are foreign nationals who do not fall under an exemption. The requirement depends on the traveller’s nationality and exemption status, not simply on holding a Saudi Iqama.
What should I do if I enter incorrect information on my MDAC?
If you notice an error in your MDAC, check the official MDAC portal to see whether you can update or submit the information again. Make sure your details match your passport and travel plans. If you are unsure what to do, contact Malaysian Immigration for guidance before travelling.
