Saudi Arabia has introduced a pilot Package Visa service that integrates visa issuance with flight and hotel bookings into a single transaction, a move expected to simplify travel planning for international visitors, including the growing number of Indian travellers. The new service enables eligible tourists to complete their visa application, airfare and accommodation booking through authorised travel providers in one seamless process.
The launch comes as India emerges as one of Saudi Arabia’s largest source markets. According to the latest Government of India data, 3.4 million Indians travelled to Saudi Arabia in 2024, making it the country’s second-largest outbound destination after the UAE. The figure marks a 13.3 per cent increase over the previous year, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing appeal beyond religious tourism.
This integrated visa model is expected to reduce booking friction, improve conversion rates for packaged holidays and strengthen collaboration between airlines, hotels and tour operators. The initiative also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to boost inbound tourism through digital travel facilitation and enhanced visitor experiences, positioning the Kingdom to attract a larger share of India’s fast-growing leisure, MICE and premium outbound segments.
Shreya Bansal is a reporter at TravTalk India, covering the travel and tourism industry. She brings a keen eye for emerging trends, trade developments, and the stories shaping the travel landscape. Through in-depth reporting and on-ground insights, she connects industry stakeholders with news that matters. Beyond travel, Shreya has a growing interest in the premium lifestyle space, particularly the world of fine jewellery and is eager to explore the craftsmanship, culture, and commerce that define luxury living.