In a massive step toward making international travel easier, Saudi Arabia has officially launched a new Package Visa pilot program. Designed to simplify the journey for tourists and pilgrims alike, this all-in-one digital initiative allows Pakistani travelers to book their flights, accommodation, and electronic tourist visa through a single, streamlined process.
The initiative is part of the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy to boost tourism, making the travel experience faster, more connected, and highly accessible for international visitors.
Here is everything Pakistani travelers need to know about the new Saudi Package Visa, including eligibility, costs, and the application process.
What is the Saudi Package Visa?
Traditionally, traveling to Saudi Arabia meant navigating multiple steps: booking flights, securing hotel reservations, and then applying separately for a visa.
The new Package Visa bundles these essential travel elements into one cohesive transaction. Available exclusively through authorized and approved travel agencies, the package automatically includes:
- An electronic tourist visa (Single Entry)
- Confirmed round-trip airfare
- Confirmed accommodation at licensed properties (minimum 4-star rating)
- Mandatory travel and health insurance
- Optional additions like cultural experiences, entertainment events, and local transport
Key Benefits for Pakistani Travelers
For Pakistani tourists, families, and those looking to perform Umrah alongside their travels, this initiative removes significant administrative hurdles.
- Zero Hassle: No more juggling separate websites and applications. The integrated digital process means you only deal with one authorized travel provider.
- Faster Processing: Because the visa is bundled with pre-approved hotel and flight data, visa processing is completed electronically within a maximum of 48 hours.
- Guaranteed Quality: To maintain high standards, the Kingdom mandates that all accommodations booked under this package must be licensed hotels with at least a four-star rating.
- Flexible Stays: Travelers can book short weekend getaways or extended vacations. The package allows for a minimum stay of 2 days and a maximum stay of 88 days.
Eligibility and Requirements
Currently, the Package Visa is rolling out in a pilot phase. Fortunately, Pakistan is among the first seven eligible countries, joining India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, and Mexico.
To qualify for the Package Visa, travelers must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum Duration: The booked trip must be at least 2 days long.
- Accommodation Standards: You must stay at a Ministry of Tourism-licensed 4-star hotel (or higher).
- Authorized Agencies: Bookings must be made directly through qualified travel and tourism service providers that are connected to the digital platform.
Pricing & Visa Costs
While the exact cost will vary based on your choice of flights and hotels, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has set baseline financial requirements to utilize this premium fast-track service:
- Minimum Package Value: The total travel package must be worth at least SAR 4,000 (approx. $1,065 USD) per adult for the first two days combined.
- Extended Stays: For every additional day after the initial two days, the package value must increase by a minimum of SAR 1,000 per day.
- Visa Fee: The actual electronic tourist visa fee is set at SAR 402.21, which conveniently includes the mandatory health insurance policy premium.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing your Saudi Package Visa is a straightforward, four-step digital process:
- Select a Package: Visit an authorized travel agency’s platform (such as Almosafer or Reserval) and choose a tourism package that fits your needs.
- Make the Payment: Pay for your combined flights, hotel, and visa fees securely through the provider’s digital checkout.
- Automatic Processing: Once your payment and data are verified, the system automatically processes your electronic tourist visa and insurance.
- Receive Documents: Within 48 hours, all your travel documents—including your e-visa, flight tickets, and hotel confirmations—will be delivered directly to your email inbox.
With this new seamless booking model, Saudi Arabia is proving that the future of travel is not about tedious paperwork, but about convenience, exploration, and incredible experiences.