Saudi Arabia has launched the pilot phase of its new “Package Visa” programme, introducing a digital travel solution that enables international tourists to obtain a visa while booking flights and hotel accommodation through a single, integrated platform.
The initiative is part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to make travel more convenient, attract more international visitors, and strengthen tourism as a key pillar of economic diversification under Vision 2030.
One Platform for the Entire Travel Journey
Under the new system, eligible travellers can complete several travel arrangements in a single booking process instead of using separate platforms for visa applications, airline tickets, and hotel reservations.
In addition to flights and accommodation, the platform also allows visitors to add:
- Tourist attraction tickets
- Entertainment event bookings
- Local tours and activities
- Other travel experiences
The integrated system is designed to make trip planning faster, simpler, and more convenient for international visitors.
Pilot Phase Begins in Selected Markets
Saudi authorities said the Package Visa has initially been launched on a pilot basis through certified travel and tourism service providers operating in selected international markets.
Following the pilot programme, the initiative is expected to be expanded gradually to additional countries as part of a wider global rollout.
To ensure service quality and traveller safety, only approved travel operators meeting strict service standards and providing 24-hour customer support are currently authorised to offer the Package Visa service.
Tourism Minister Highlights Benefits
Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb said the initiative reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to making travel easier and more accessible for international visitors.
According to the minister, integrating visa processing with travel bookings creates a smoother visitor experience while strengthening cooperation across Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.
He added that the programme supports Saudi Arabia’s ambition to establish itself as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations by reducing travel-related procedures.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism experience just got better.
Building on our journey to make the Kingdom more accessible for inbound tourists, we are thrilled to announce the pilot launch of the #PackageVisa .
This new service allows global travelers to secure their visa, flights, and… pic.twitter.com/yGz4wa5zX7— وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) July 6, 2026
Part of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Strategy
The new initiative builds upon several reforms introduced in recent years to simplify entry into the Kingdom.
These include:
- The Tourist e-Visa
- Visa on Arrival
- The Stopover Transit Visa
Saudi Arabia says these measures have contributed significantly to the rapid growth of its tourism industry.
According to official figures, the Kingdom welcomed more than 29 million international visitors in 2025, reflecting a sharp increase in inbound tourism as the country continues to invest heavily in hospitality, entertainment, cultural attractions, and major international events.
Benefits for the Global Travel Industry
The Package Visa is also expected to benefit international travel agencies and tour operators by enabling them to offer comprehensive travel packages through a single booking process.
Officials believe the system will help streamline travel logistics, encourage longer stays, and allow tourism companies to design more competitive holiday packages for international visitors.
As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its tourism sector, the new Package Visa represents another step toward making the Kingdom a more accessible and visitor-friendly destination while supporting its long-term goal of diversifying the national economy beyond oil.
