What is the New Package Visa?
Saudi Arabia has introduced an innovative 'Package Visa' service designed to streamline travel for tourists from select countries, including India. This new route integrates the tourist visa application with the booking of flights and accommodation. Instead
of handling each component separately, travellers can now book a complete package through an approved tourism provider, and the electronic tourist visa is issued as part of the deal. This initiative, launched in July 2026, is part of a pilot program available to citizens of seven countries, with India being a key focus. The main goal is to reduce paperwork and make planning a trip to the Kingdom a more seamless and convenient experience.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
This package-based tourist e-visa route is specifically for passport holders from seven designated countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, and Mexico. This is a significant development because these countries are not on the list of 66 nations eligible for Saudi Arabia's standard online e-visa program. This new system provides a direct electronic pathway for Indian citizens who do not hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, which was previously a common prerequisite for easier access. Travellers under 18 must be part of a booking with an adult guardian. The process is designed to be inclusive for families and groups, with some packages allowing up to 14 members in a single booking.
How the 'Package' System Works
The term 'package-based' means the visa is intrinsically linked to a pre-booked trip. To qualify, travellers must purchase an integrated package from a travel and tourism service provider approved by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. These packages have certain criteria. They must include confirmed return flights and accommodation at a hotel with at least a four-star rating. The trip duration must be between two and 88 days. There is also a minimum spending threshold to be eligible; for instance, some providers require a minimum package value of around SAR 4,000 for the first two days, which covers travel services, visa fees, and mandatory insurance. This ensures that visitors are genuinely coming for tourism purposes with a clear itinerary.
The Application Process Step-by-Step
The process is designed to be straightforward and digital. The official guidance from Visit Saudi outlines five key stages. First, you choose a ready-made package or work with an approved travel provider to design your own tourism experience. Next, you upload the required documents, which typically include your passport details and a recent personal photograph. After that, you complete the booking by making the payment for the entire package. The system then performs an automated verification of your eligibility and information. Once everything is confirmed, you receive your electronic tourist visa, ready for your trip. The visa issued is a single-entry visa tied to the dates of your booked trip.
Key Benefits for Indian Travellers
The primary advantage of this new route is convenience. It consolidates multiple, often complex, travel-planning steps into a single transaction. For Indian passport holders without other qualifying visas (like a US or Schengen visa), it opens up a direct and official e-visa channel that wasn't previously available. By bundling the visa with flights and pre-approved hotels, it offers travellers a sense of security and reduces the uncertainty that can sometimes accompany visa applications. The process is also fast, with the electronic visa being issued after the package booking is verified. This removes a significant hurdle, allowing tourists to focus on planning their exploration of the Kingdom's diverse attractions, from the futuristic city of NEOM to the ancient heritage of AlUla.
