Understanding the Package Visa Pilot
Saudi Arabia's Package Visa is a new initiative designed to make visiting the Kingdom more seamless. Instead of managing separate bookings for flights, accommodation, and a visa, this program allows eligible travellers to purchase an all-in-one package
from an approved provider. The package must include return flights and accommodation at a licensed hotel rated at least four stars. This pilot program, launched in early July 2026, aims to streamline the entire travel process, with the visa being issued electronically and instantly upon completing the package purchase. As of its launch, the pilot is available to citizens of seven countries: Jordan, Egypt, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Mexico, and Pakistan, with plans to expand in the future.
The Most Reliable Source: Official Portals
The most crucial step in verifying any travel provider is to start with official government sources. The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has created dedicated web pages for the Package Visa initiative. These official platforms are the definitive source for information. Travellers should first consult the official 'Visit Saudi' tourism website and the 'KSA Visa' portal. These sites not only explain the program but also list the officially accredited travel agencies participating in the pilot. This is the safest way to ensure you are booking through a legitimate, approved channel.
Identifying Approved Travel Agencies
The Package Visa is not sold directly by airlines or individual hotels. Instead, it is offered through approved travel and tourism service providers that have the digital infrastructure and customer support systems required by the Saudi government. As of the pilot's launch, the Ministry of Tourism has accredited two providers: Reserval and Almosafer. To find participating airlines and hotels, you must go through the package offerings on these platforms. They are the designated gateways for this new visa type. As the program expands, more agencies may be added, and the official Saudi tourism websites will be the first place to find this updated information.
How Airlines and Hotels Fit In
While you won't book the Package Visa directly with an airline, the approved travel agencies' packages will feature specific airline partners for flights and hotel partners for accommodation. When you browse packages on sites like Reserval or Almosafer, the flight and hotel options presented are, by default, participants in the program. The key is that the entire package—flights, stay, and visa—is integrated. Therefore, verification is less about checking with an individual airline or hotel chain and more about ensuring you are booking through one of the officially designated travel agencies. The package itself confirms the participation of the airline and hotel included within it.
Distinguishing from Other Visa Types
It's important not to confuse the Package Visa with other entry options like the general tourist e-Visa, the Stopover Transit Visa, or visa-on-arrival. Some airlines, like Flynas, actively promote the Stopover Visa, which allows for a stay of up to 96 hours and is applied for during the flight booking process. This is a separate program from the Package Visa, which requires booking through a specific travel agency and covers a longer stay. Always check the details to ensure the visa you are applying for matches your travel needs. The Package Visa is unique because the visa is tied directly to the purchase of a complete travel bundle.
Avoiding Scams and Unofficial Providers
Whenever a new travel program is launched, unofficial third-party websites often appear, claiming to offer the service. To protect yourself, never use a provider that is not explicitly listed on the official Saudi Ministry of Tourism or KSA Visa websites. Be wary of any service that asks for payment outside of a secure, professional platform or promises a Package Visa without booking through one of the approved agents. The government has set strict criteria for participating companies, including 24/7 customer support, to ensure visitor confidence. Sticking to the official channels of Reserval and Almosafer is the only guaranteed way to access the pilot program safely.
