What is the New Package Visa?
Saudi Arabia has launched a new 'Package Visa' initiative to simplify the entire process of planning a trip to the Kingdom. Instead of applying for a visa, booking flights, and finding accommodation in separate steps, this service bundles them into a single
transaction. Travellers can book an entire holiday—including the electronic visa, flights, and hotels—through one approved travel provider. India is one of the first seven countries eligible for this pilot programme. The goal is to create a seamless journey for tourists, reducing paperwork and making the Kingdom more accessible.
How it Changes Travel Planning
The key advantage of the Package Visa is convenience. For Indian travellers, this means you no longer need to navigate the visa application portal as a separate, often daunting, task. You simply choose a pre-approved travel package, and the visa application is embedded within that booking process. The visa is typically issued electronically within 48 hours of purchasing the package and sent to your email. This model is particularly beneficial for first-time visitors or those planning short breaks, as it removes uncertainty and streamlines logistics. Approved providers must offer 24/7 support, adding a layer of security to your travel plans.
Perfect for Short-Break Tourism
This new system is ideal for facilitating short-break tourism, such as long weekend trips from India. The single-entry visa issued under this package is valid for three months and allows a stay of up to 88 days, with a minimum stay of two days. This flexibility supports quick getaways to explore cities like Riyadh and Jeddah or attend major events. In parallel, Saudi Arabia also offers a Stopover Visa, which allows travellers flying on Saudia or Flynas to stay in the country for up to 96 hours (four days) for free, excluding administrative and insurance fees. This separate option is perfect for those transiting through the Kingdom and wanting a brief taste of what it has to offer. The Package Visa, however, is geared towards planned, longer tourist stays.
Understanding the Costs and Conversion Rates
While the standard tourist e-visa costs around SAR 535 (approximately ₹12,000), the cost of the Package Visa is integrated into the total price of your travel bundle. The minimum price for a package is set at SAR 4,000 per adult for the first two days, with an additional SAR 1,000 for each extra day. It's crucial for Indian travellers to consider the Saudi Riyal (SAR) to Indian Rupee (INR) conversion rate when budgeting. As of mid-July 2026, the rate is approximately 1 SAR to ₹25.6. This means the minimum package cost would be around ₹1,02,400. Always check the current exchange rate before booking, as fluctuations can affect the final cost in rupees.
How to Apply and Who is Eligible
Currently, the Package Visa is available to citizens of seven countries: India, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Mexico. To apply, you must book a qualifying package through an accredited travel agency with a digital platform, such as Almosafer or Reserval. The package must include round-trip flights and accommodation in a hotel rated four stars or above. While the visa obtained through this package allows travel anywhere in the Kingdom, it's important to note that it does not include specific Umrah arrangements, though you are permitted to visit Mecca and Medina.
