What is the New Package Visa?
The Package Visa is a new initiative designed to streamline the entire process of visiting Saudi Arabia. Instead of the traditional method of booking flights, then finding approved accommodation, and finally applying for a visa separately, this system
integrates all these steps into a single transaction. Travellers can book a complete package that includes their round-trip flights, a stay at a licensed hotel, and the electronic tourist visa application itself through an approved travel provider. The goal is to create a more connected and less complicated journey for tourists from the moment they decide to book their trip. This pilot program is currently being tested in select international markets before a planned broader rollout.
How the Integrated System Works
The process is designed for digital convenience. A traveller begins by selecting a pre-approved travel package from an accredited provider, such as Reserval or Almosafer, which are the first two to be announced. This package must include, at a minimum, return flights and accommodation at a Ministry-licensed hotel with at least a four-star rating. Once the package is chosen, the traveller completes the payment securely on the provider's digital platform. Following payment, the visa application is processed automatically. The electronic visa and travel insurance documents are then issued and sent directly to the traveller's email within 48 hours, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.
Who Can Apply and What Are the Rules?
In its initial pilot phase, the Package Visa is available to travellers from seven countries: India, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Mexico. The visa issued is a single-entry tourist visa valid for three months, permitting a stay of up to 88 days. While the package does not include specific arrangements for Umrah, visa holders are permitted to travel anywhere within Saudi Arabia, including the holy cities of Mecca and Madinah. It is important to note that the visa is tied directly to the travel package; if the package is cancelled, the visa associated with it is also automatically revoked. The Ministry of Tourism has indicated that more nationalities will be added in future phases.
The Key Benefits for Travellers
The most significant advantage of the Package Visa is its simplicity. It drastically reduces the number of steps and the amount of paperwork required to plan a trip to the Kingdom. By bundling the visa application with flight and hotel bookings, it removes the uncertainty and waiting times often associated with separate visa applications. This integrated approach is intended to build confidence, as travellers will be booking with officially licensed and vetted providers who must offer 24/7 customer support. Furthermore, it allows for greater customisation, as travellers can add optional tours, event tickets, and other cultural experiences directly into their package during the booking process.
Part of a Bigger Vision
This new visa system is a key component of Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030, a national strategy to diversify the economy and develop public service sectors, including tourism. The Kingdom has set a goal to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030, and simplifying entry procedures is crucial to achieving this target. The Package Visa is the latest in a series of measures aimed at making the country more accessible, following the introduction of the general tourist e-Visa in 2019, visa-on-arrival options, and a Stopover Transit Visa. These initiatives have already had a significant impact, with Saudi Arabia welcoming over 29 million inbound visitors in 2025.
