Saudi Arabia has introduced a new Package Visa that combines a tourist eVisa, flights, hotel accommodation and mandatory travel insurance into a single booking, making travel planning simpler for international visitors.
India is among the first seven countries selected for the pilot programme, allowing eligible Indian travellers to access the service through authorised travel agencies approved by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism.
Also Read | IRCTC offers 12-Day South India Yatra from ₹23,560; Check route & inclusions
The initiative is designed to reduce paperwork, streamline visa processing and offer a more convenient booking experience for tourists planning a trip to the Kingdom.
How does Saudi Arabia’s new Package Visa work?
Under the new system, travellers can book an entire holiday package through an authorised travel agency instead of arranging flights, accommodation, insurance and a visa separately.
After selecting a travel package or creating a customised itinerary—travellers upload their passport details and a recent photograph before completing the payment online.
Following digital verification, the Saudi tourist eVisa is issued electronically along with mandatory travel insurance. All travel documents are then sent directly to the traveller’s registered email, eliminating the need for a separate visa application or embassy visit.
According to Saudi authorities, the total visa fee is SAR 402.2 (around ₹10,223), which includes the tourist eVisa and mandatory health insurance.
Is the Package Visa better for Indian travellers?
For travellers booking a complete holiday, the Package Visa could simplify the planning process by bringing multiple travel requirements under one platform.
However, travellers who prefer booking flights and hotels independently or already have confirmed accommodation may still find the regular Saudi tourist eVisa more flexible.
Also Read | Wildflowering dating trend: Why everyone’s talking about it
The Package Visa is currently available only through authorised travel partners and is being piloted in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Jordan, Egypt and Mexico.
Saudi Arabia says the initiative is aimed at making tourism more accessible while improving the overall visitor experience through a fully digital application process.
FAQs
Who can apply for Saudi Arabia’s new Package Visa?
The pilot programme is currently available to travellers from seven countries, including India, through authorised travel agencies.
What does the Saudi Package Visa include?
The Package Visa includes a Saudi tourist eVisa, flights, hotel accommodation and mandatory travel insurance in a single booking.