Explore Saudi: Multiple Visa Options for Indians

Saudi extends an invitation to explore Riyadh’s vibrant cityscape, Jeddah’s cultural richness, hidden treasures of the Red Sea, and the ancient marvels of AlUla.

Saudi Arabia beckons Indian travellers with wide choice of tourist visa options, introducing easier access to its diverse destinations. The new guidelines and visa options cater to a variety of travel needs. These options are announced for encouraging more travellers to explore the multi-faceted country. 

Currently, there are 10 visa facilitation centres in Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Calicut. There are also plans to add more dedicated centres in additional cities. 

This initiative aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030. It is aiming to tap into India’s potential as the number 1 source market by welcoming 7.5 million Indian travellers by 2030. By the end of 2024, Saudi Arabia aims to double visitor numbers to 2.2 million.

Indian travellers can now apply for a Stopover visa. This is valid for up to 96 hours and can be obtained 90 days in advance on the Saudia airline website for a nominal fee towards administration and insurance services. 

Indians holding a valid tourist or business visa from the United States, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen country, with stamped proof of entry, are eligible for the eVisa.

Permanent residents of these countries or individuals possessing a valid residence visa from a GCC country are also eligible. Provided they have a minimum validity of three months beyond the entry date into Saudi Arabia. The eVisa can be obtained before departure through the official portal.

Travellers meeting similar criteria of a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or Schengen countries with entry stamps can avail of a visa upon arrival at Saudi international airports. Those with permanent residency in these countries can also apply at self-service kiosks or passport control offices at Saudi airports.

Those not eligible under the above-mentioned criteria can apply for the visa through Tasheer Centres across India. This process requires document preparation, appointment booking, application submission, biometric enrolment, and passport collection.

However, it is to be noted that Stopover visa, eVisa, and Visa-on-Arrival come with conditional eligibility and are not valid for all travellers.

All of mentioned visa options are valid for those wishing to perform Umrah

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