What is the New Package Visa?
Saudi Arabia has launched an innovative visa service aimed at streamlining tourist entry. The Package Visa allows travellers from select countries, including India, to get an electronic tourist visa when they book a complete travel package through an approved
provider. This integrated system combines the visa application, round-trip flights, and hotel accommodation into a single, hassle-free transaction. Introduced as a pilot program, it represents a significant shift from traditional visa application routes, designed to make planning a trip to the Kingdom much more convenient. India is one of only seven nationalities eligible for this new service during its initial phase.
Who Can Apply and What's Required?
This new route is specifically for Indian passport holders who might not have other visas that grant easier access. The key requirement is booking a qualifying travel package. This package must include a confirmed round-trip flight and accommodation at a Ministry-licensed hotel with a rating of four stars or higher. There is a minimum package value of 4,000 Saudi riyals for the first two days. Bookings need to be made at least 48 hours before departure. A practical advantage for families and groups is that a single application can cover up to nine adults and five children.
How Does This Differ from Other Visas?
Previously, Indian travellers had a few main pathways to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism. The standard tourist eVisa is a common route, requiring an online application in advance. Another option is the visa-on-arrival, but this is only available to Indians who hold a valid and previously used visa from the US, UK, or Schengen area and who fly with a Saudi national carrier like Saudia or Flynas. There is also a 96-hour Stopover Visa, which is ideal for short layovers when flying with these national airlines. The new Package Visa creates a crucial third lane: it does not depend on holding a visa from another country. Its accessibility is tied to the purchase of a travel package, opening the door for a wider group of Indian tourists.
The Key Benefits for Indian Travellers
The most significant advantage of the Package Visa is its simplicity. It removes the need for a separate, often complex, visa application process by integrating it directly into the travel booking. This 'all-in-one' approach reduces paperwork and uncertainty. For those who do not possess a US, UK, or Schengen visa, this new route provides a straightforward way to gain entry for tourism without needing to meet those specific criteria. The entire process is handled online through approved platforms, from uploading your passport details to payment and receiving the electronic visa, making it highly efficient. The visa and mandatory health insurance fee is set at SAR 402.21, offering clarity on costs from the outset.
From Ancient History to Modern Skylines
With entry becoming more accessible, Indian travellers can more easily explore the vast landscapes and cultural treasures of Saudi Arabia. The ancient desert city of AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking rock-hewn tombs and stunning natural formations. The capital, Riyadh, is a bustling metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet traditional souqs and historical sites like the Masmak Fortress. On the Red Sea coast, the port city of Jeddah blends a historic old town (Al-Balad) with contemporary art galleries and beautiful seaside promenades. The Stopover Visa also makes it possible for travellers to perform Umrah during a short stay. This new package route provides the opportunity for longer, more immersive journeys into the heart of the Kingdom.
