Explained: What Saudi Arabia's new 'Package Visa' means for travellers

Saudi Arabia has launched a pilot programme for a new "Package Visa" that allows eligible international travellers to obtain a visa instantly while booking travel packages through authorised tourism service providers.

The new initiative is being rolled out through qualified travel and tourism service providers across selected international markets ahead of a wider launch.

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb said the Package Visa builds on earlier measures such as the electronic tourist visa, visa on arrival and transit visa, which were introduced to simplify entry into the kingdom.

"The pilot service 'Tourist Packages Visa' comes as an extension of these efforts and a new step toward a more integrated and seamless travel experience for visitors from all corners of the world," Al Khateeb said in a post on X.

Here's what travellers need to know:

According to the Saudi government, eligible travellers booking through authorised operators will be able to obtain a visa as part of an integrated travel package, eliminating the need for separate visa applications, paperwork or appointments.

Instead of arranging flights, accommodation and a visa separately, visitors can complete the process through a single booking, with the option of adding events, activities and other tourism experiences.

The service is currently available only through qualified travel and tourism service providers participating in the pilot programme across selected international markets. A wider rollout is planned later.

The new system reduces the number of steps involved in planning a trip by combining travel arrangements and visa processing into a single booking. Saudi authorities say it is designed to make travel more convenient, encourage longer stays and improve the overall visitor experience.

No. The Package Visa complements Saudi Arabia's existing entry options, including the tourist e-Visa, visa on arrival and the Stopover Transit Visa. These visa categories continue to remain available subject to their respective eligibility conditions.

The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's strategy to grow its tourism sector by making travel to the kingdom easier. According to official figures, the country received more than 29 million inbound visitors in 2025 following a series of visa reforms introduced in recent years.