Saudi Arabia has launched the new ‘Package Visa’, a digital initiative that enables processing the tourist visa as part of purchasing a travel package, consolidating in a single process the entry, flights, and accommodation.
The new system aims to streamline the procedures visitors must complete before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Eligible travelers can book a package through authorized travel providers. It also includes automatic activation of the mandatory travel insurance, as well as the option to add excursions, event tickets, and other tourism services.
Initially, the Package Visa is being rolled out through authorized operators in India, Jordan, Egypt, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Mexico and Pakistan, before expanding to other potential international markets.
Integrated Formula
Unlike the conventional tourist eVisa, which functions as a multi-entry electronic authorization for short stays, the Package Visa ties the grant of entry permission to the purchase of an organized tour program. It thus offers an integrated solution channeled through authorized agencies and platforms.
In this way, Saudi Arabia advances its model of tourism products with a Package Visa that goes one step further with a complete, personalized product that encourages longer stays and a greater understanding of the country’s various destinations.
Vision 2030
The launch takes place within the framework of the tourism transformation promoted by Vision 2030. The strategy regards this sector as one of the main drivers of economic diversification, job creation, and Saudi Arabia’s international openness.
The country exceeded in 2023 its initial objective of reaching 100 million visitors (domestic and international). Following that result, it raised its target to exceed 150 million visitors annually by 2030. In this way, the strategy complements the development of new infrastructures, cultural destinations, and leisure projects with a tool that improves visa issuance procedures, making them more accessible to the international public and moving toward a more connected travel experience.
