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Tuesday,  August 18, 2026   4:37 AM
Saudi Arabia simplifies entry with "Package Visa" initiative
Nabawi Mosque in Madina, Saudi Arabia. (Unsplash)

Saudi Arabia is introducing a digital visa initiative aimed at making it easier for international travellers to visit the destination by integrating tourist visa applications directly into travel package bookings.

The new “Package Visa” is being rolled out through qualified travel and tourism service providers in selected international markets ahead of a broader global launch.

The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to streamline entry procedures and support the country's expanding tourism sector.

Since introducing its tourist e-Visa, Saudi has added several other entry options, including visa on arrival and the Stopover Transit Visa.

According to the country, those measures helped attract more than 29 million inbound visitors in 2025.

"As Saudi's tourism sector continues to grow at pace, Package Visa reflects our commitment to making travel to Saudi more seamless for visitors. By integrating visa issuance with travel bookings, we are simplifying the visitor journey and creating a more connected travel experience. This initiative also strengthens collaboration across the tourism ecosystem and supports Saudi's position as an increasingly accessible global destination," said His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, in a press release.

Under the new system, eligible travellers will be able to arrange flights, accommodation and their tourist visa through a single booking process, rather than completing each step separately.

The platform will also allow travellers to add events, attractions and tourism experiences to their itinerary as part of the booking.

Saudi says the integrated approach is designed to reduce the number of steps required to plan a trip while creating a more seamless travel experience from booking through arrival.

The initiative also aims to benefit travel and tourism providers by enabling them to offer more comprehensive vacation packages, simplify the booking process and encourage visitors to extend their stays and explore more of the destination.

To participate, travel and tourism service providers must meet established service standards and provide 24/7 customer support.

Saudi says the Package Visa will only be available through qualified providers “that meet clear service standards and offer 24/7 customer support.”


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