Saudi Arabia has introduced a new 'Package Visa' pilot program, an integrated service designed to significantly simplify travel to the kingdom. Announced by the Ministry of Tourism, this initiative allows international visitors to secure their visa, flights, and accommodation through a single booking process, eliminating the need to arrange each element separately.
A Seamless Travel Experience for Visitors
The Ministry of Tourism highlighted the Package Visa as a direct response to the rapid growth of Saudi Arabia's tourism sector. Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb stated that by integrating visa issuance with travel bookings, the program aims to create a more connected and efficient journey for visitors. This effort also seeks to strengthen collaboration within the tourism ecosystem and reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as an increasingly accessible global destination.
What the Package Visa Includes
- Integrated Booking: Eligible travelers can book their entire trip through approved general travel and tourism service providers.
- Electronic Visa: The electronic visa application is seamlessly built into the overall package.
- Comprehensive Package: A complete booking covers round-trip flights, accommodation in licensed hospitality establishments, and includes optional events, activities, and tourism experiences.
The pilot program is currently live across several markets via approved providers, demonstrating a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and the Insurance Authority.
Expanding Saudi Arabia's Tourism Offerings
The Package Visa is the latest addition to Saudi Arabia's expanding portfolio of entry options, which already includes the tourist e-Visa, visa on arrival, and the Stopover Transit Visa. Officials view this new program as the next phase in the kingdom's tourism transformation, contributing to the goal of attracting a wider global audience. These combined initiatives helped Saudi Arabia welcome over 29 million inbound visitors in 2025.
Opportunities for Travel Providers
Beyond benefiting individual travelers, the Package Visa opens new commercial opportunities for approved service providers. The Ministry anticipates that the initiative will enable travel companies to develop higher-value itineraries, encourage longer stays, enhance the overall customer experience, and drive increased visitor spending. To participate, providers must meet specific qualifying requirements, including robust digital booking platforms and 24/7 technical support and call center capabilities.
This launch is an integral part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy under Vision 2030, aiming to reduce barriers to international travel and deepen the integration between private sector tourism services and the national immigration framework.