A New Digital Gateway for Tourists
As part of its ambitious Vision 2030 plan to become a global tourism powerhouse, Saudi Arabia is aiming to attract 7.5 million Indian visitors annually by 2030. To achieve this, the Kingdom has simplified its entry procedures. The latest development is the “Tourist
Package Visa,” a digital service launched in mid-2026 specifically for travellers from seven countries, including India. This initiative bundles the visa application with flight and hotel bookings, removing the need for separate embassy visits or complex paperwork. The entire process is integrated, making it a one-stop solution for planning your trip.
How the E-Visa Package Works
The core idea of the Package Visa is integration. Instead of applying for a visa separately, you obtain it as part of a travel package booked through an authorised provider. The process is straightforward: you choose a pre-designed or customised holiday package from an approved travel partner's website. These packages must include confirmed round-trip flights and accommodation at a hotel with at least a four-star rating. Once you select your package, you upload your passport details and a recent photograph, complete the payment, and your information is automatically verified. After approval, the electronic tourist visa (e-visa) and mandatory travel insurance are issued and sent directly to your email.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Getting your hands on this new package is a simple, five-step digital process. First, visit an approved travel partner's website, such as Almosafer or WeBook. Second, choose your package, which can be a ready-made itinerary or a custom trip you design yourself. Third, upload your documents, which typically consist of your passport details and a personal photo. Fourth, complete the secure payment for the entire package online. Finally, your eligibility is automatically reviewed, and upon success, you will receive your e-visa via email, often within 24 hours. This visa is a single-entry permit tied to the dates of your booked trip, which can range from two to 88 days.
Eligibility and Other Visa Options
The new Package Visa is available to all Indian passport holders booking through the specified system. However, it's not the only way to enter the Kingdom. For years, Indian citizens holding a valid and previously used US, UK, or Schengen visa have been eligible for a visa on arrival, provided they travel on a national Saudi carrier like Saudia or Flynas. Additionally, the standard tourist e-visa remains an option, offering a one-year, multiple-entry permit that allows for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, family visits, and performing Umrah outside the Hajj season. This provides flexibility for travellers who may not want to book a bundled package.
The Smart Alternative: The Stopover Visa
For those with a shorter timeframe or who are transiting through Saudi Arabia to another destination, the Stopover Visa is an excellent and often free option. When booking flights with Saudia or Flynas, travellers can apply for a transit visa that allows a stay of up to 96 hours (four days). The visa itself is free, though there are small administrative and mandatory insurance fees. This is a fantastic opportunity to perform Umrah, explore historic cities like Jeddah and Riyadh, or simply get a taste of the country during a layover, all without the need for a full tourist visa. The application is integrated into the flight booking process on the airline websites.
