Published/Updated: 1 October 2026
Saudi Arabia has quietly become one of the most talked-about destinations for Indian travellers — and now there is a genuinely new way for Indian passport holders to get a Saudi tourist visa without a consulate visit. A pilot programme called the Tourist Package Visa, launched by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, is opening an electronic visa route tied to travel packages. Here is what is confirmed so far, what it costs, and what it means for your plans.
Saudi Tourist Visa: The New Package Visa Route
In July 2026, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism, together with the Saudi Tourism Authority, launched the Tourist Package Visa pilot. The idea is simple: instead of applying for a visa separately, travellers book a qualifying travel package and the e-visa application is handled as part of the same booking.
Recently, the travel platform Webook.com launched its Saudi Package Visa service under this programme. Citizens and passport holders of seven countries — India, Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Mexico — can now book flights and hotel and apply for their Saudi tourist e-visa through the same platform. More nationalities are expected as the programme expands.
This matters because Indian passport holders are not eligible for Saudi Arabia’s standard tourist e-visa on nationality alone — previously, many had to visit a consulate or go through an intermediary.
Package Visa: Confirmed Details So Far
| Detail | What Is Confirmed |
|---|---|
| Launched | July 2026 (pilot), Ministry of Tourism + Saudi Tourism Authority |
| Eligible nationalities | India, Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Mexico |
| Booking platform | Webook.com (authorised package provider) |
| Minimum package value | SAR 4,000 (approx. USD 1,066) |
| Hotel requirement | Ministry-certified hotel, 4-star or above |
| Visa + medical coverage fee | SAR 402.21 |
| Approval timeline | Typically within a day, visa delivered electronically |
| Trip length | 2 to 90 days |
| Booking deadline | At least 48 hours before departure |
Final visa issuance always depends on assessment and approval by the Saudi authorities — the platform submits the request, but the government decides.
How the Process Works
- Choose a qualifying package — confirmed return flight plus a 4-star-or-above certified hotel, total package cost at least SAR 4,000.
- Enter your travel details exactly as in your passport.
- Optionally add events — the platform also sells tickets to Saudi sports and entertainment events.
- Submit and wait — approval is reported to typically arrive within a day, delivered electronically.
- Travel — one application can cover up to nine adults and five children.
Before booking, verify current terms on the platform and cross-check against the official Visit Saudi website, which has confirmed the seven eligible nationalities in the current rollout phase.
What About the Regular Visa and Umrah?
The Package Visa does not replace existing routes. Depending on your circumstances, other entry options may apply — for instance, travellers holding certain foreign visas or residence permits may qualify for different Saudi entry options. For religious travel, the rules are separate: Saudi Arabia requires Umrah bookings through the official Nusuk platform, and only valid Hajj-permit holders may enter Mecca during the pilgrimage period. A tourist visa of any kind does not permit Hajj.
For context on changing Gulf visa rules: UAE Visa Rules Change: Key Updates Every Indian Must Know. Planning to work in the Kingdom instead? Read Saudi Arabia Technician Jobs: Demand, Salary and Process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the Saudi Package Visa available to all Indians?
As per the current rollout, Indian citizens and passport holders are among the seven eligible nationalities. Verify the current list before booking, as the pilot may expand.
Q2. How much does it cost?
The reported visa and medical coverage charge is SAR 402.21, on top of a qualifying package worth at least SAR 4,000. Package prices vary by season — treat published figures as indicative.
Q3. How fast is approval?
Reports indicate approval typically arrives within a day, delivered electronically. You must still finalise booking at least 48 hours before departure.
Q4. Can I perform Umrah on this tourist visa?
Tourist e-visa holders must obtain an Umrah permit through the official Nusuk app before entering Mecca, and pilgrimage-season restrictions apply. Hajj on any visit or tourist visa is prohibited and carries heavy penalties.
Q5. Where can I verify the latest official information?
The official Visit Saudi tourism website and Saudi Ministry of Tourism announcements are the authoritative sources. Avoid relying solely on agent claims or social-media forwards.