Saudi Arabia Introduces ‘Package Visa’ to Simplify Travel for Pakistanis and Other International Visitors

Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of a new “Package Visa” initiative aimed at making travel easier for Pakistani and other international visitors by integrating tourist visa applications with travel bookings on a single digital platform.

According to Arab media reports, the new service will initially be rolled out through approved travel and tourism service providers in selected international markets before its wider global launch. Saudi authorities say the initiative is designed to significantly reduce the number of steps required to plan a trip to the Kingdom.

Under the new system, eligible travelers will no longer need to use separate platforms to arrange flights, accommodation, and entry permits. Instead, they will be able to complete their entire travel itinerary through one integrated booking process.

The platform will also allow users to add event tickets, local activities, and other tourism experiences to their travel packages, offering a more seamless and convenient planning experience.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, said the initiative reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to making travel easier as its tourism sector continues to grow rapidly.

“By integrating visa issuance with travel bookings, we are creating a simpler and more connected journey for visitors,” he said, adding that the initiative also strengthens collaboration across the tourism ecosystem and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as an accessible global travel destination.

The minister noted that the digital integration is part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to remove travel barriers and promote economic diversification through tourism.

Following the successful introduction of the tourist e-visa, visa-on-arrival, and stopover transit visa programs, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 29 million international visitors in 2025, reflecting record growth in its tourism sector.

Officials also said the Package Visa initiative is expected to help the global travel industry develop more competitive travel packages, improve travel logistics for customers, and encourage longer stays in the Kingdom.

To ensure high service standards and passenger protection, the Package Visa service will initially be available only through qualified travel operators that meet strict service requirements and provide 24/7 customer support.