A New Era for Saudi Tourism
Once considered one of the more difficult countries to visit, Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation. As part of its ambitious Vision 2030 plan, the Kingdom is rolling out the red carpet for international tourists, aiming to attract 150
million visitors annually by the end of the decade. India is a top priority in this global outreach. Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed one million Indian visitors, who were among the highest-spending tourists globally. The goal is to increase this number to 7.5 million by 2030, making India a vital source market. This tourism drive is supported by increased flight connectivity and, most importantly, a more accessible visa system designed to remove previous barriers for eager travellers.
The E-Visa Shortcut Explained
The most significant development for many Indian tourists is a special eligibility category for the Saudi Arabian e-visa. While India is not on the standard list of 66 countries whose citizens can apply directly for an e-visa, there is a crucial exception. Indian passport holders who possess a valid tourist or business visa for the United States, United Kingdom, or any Schengen Area country can apply for a Saudi e-visa online. The key condition is that this Western visa must have been used at least once to enter the issuing country or region, evidenced by an entry stamp in the passport. This provision also makes these travellers eligible for a visa on arrival, though applying for the e-visa in advance is highly recommended for a smoother entry process.
Are You Eligible? A Quick Checklist
Before you start planning your trip, it’s essential to confirm if you meet the specific criteria for this e-visa route. Here’s a simple checklist: Indian Passport: You must be a citizen of India with a passport valid for at least six months from your planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia. Valid Western Visa: You must hold a valid, unexpired visa for the US, UK, or a Schengen country. Visa Type: The visa must be a tourist or business visa. Previous Use: You must have travelled to the issuing country (US, UK, or Schengen zone) at least once using that visa. An entry stamp in your passport serves as proof. If you meet all these conditions, you can proceed with the online application. If not, you will need to apply for a visa through a Saudi embassy or an authorized travel agency.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is designed to be user-friendly and can be completed online in a few simple steps. First, visit the official Saudi e-visa portal at visa.visitsaudi.com. You will need to create an account and fill out the application form with your personal information, passport details, and planned travel dates. During the process, you will be asked to upload digital copies of several documents, including a recent passport-style photograph with a white background and a scan of your passport's bio page. Most importantly, you will need to upload a copy of your qualifying US, UK, or Schengen visa. After completing the form and paying the fee, your application is submitted for review. Processing is typically fast, often taking just a few days.
Costs, Validity, and Permitted Activities
The Saudi tourist e-visa is a multiple-entry visa valid for one year from the date of issue. It allows tourists to stay in the country for up to 90 days per visit. The total cost for the e-visa includes a mandatory medical insurance policy that covers emergencies during your stay in the Kingdom. This comprehensive visa permits a wide range of activities, including tourism, attending events, visiting family and friends, and performing the Umrah pilgrimage. However, it is important to note that this e-visa is not valid for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which requires a separate, specific visa. Another option for travellers is the 96-hour Stopover Visa, which allows a short stay for those transiting through the country on select airlines.
