Saudi Launches Package Visa, Integrating Tourist Bookings with Visas
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Saudi Arabia has launched a "Package Visa" initiative, integrating tourist visa issuance with travel package bookings to simplify international travel.
- This digital program, a collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, aims to attract more high-end tourists.
- The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to streamline access for foreign visitors, building on previous measures like e-Visas and Visa on Arrival.
Saudi Arabia is rolling out a new digital initiative called "Package Visa," designed to seamlessly integrate tourist visa applications with the booking of travel packages. This move aims to simplify the planning process for international visitors and attract a higher caliber of tourists, particularly those in the middle and upper-middle classes.
The program is a joint effort by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism. Initially, the service will be available through select qualified travel and tourism providers in specific international markets before a wider rollout. This phased approach ensures a smooth implementation and allows for adjustments based on early feedback.
This "Package Visa" is the latest in a series of measures Saudi Arabia has implemented to enhance accessibility for foreign tourists. The Kingdom has already introduced tourist e-Visas, Visa on Arrival, and Stopover Transit Visas, all contributing to a significant growth in the tourism sector. In 2025, Saudi Arabia welcomed over 29 million international visitors.
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring a hassle-free experience for tourists from the very beginning of their journey. "We want every trip to Saudi Arabia to start with an easy, comfortable, and seamless experience," Al Khateeb stated. The "Package Visa" is seen as a "transformational step" that connects visa issuance directly with travel bookings, offering a more integrated and user-friendly process.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.