Saudi Arabia has revealed the first seven countries that will be eligible for the country’s new Package Visa, which includes Pakistan.
The new scheme enables travellers to apply for a Saudi tourist visa via a single travel package, which includes flights, an e-visa and hotel booking in one application.
The service is underway with visitors from Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Mexico, according to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism.
The Package Visa replaces the requirement for a tourist visa to be applied for by the visitor. Rather, visitors are able to book their trips, as well as stay at licensed hotels and obtain an electronic tourist visa by means of authorised travel agents.
The electronic visa is now granted within 48 hours after buying an approved travel package without having to go to the Saudi embassy or file an individual visa application, according to the Saudi Gazette.
The service can only be used by travellers who have selected a package from an authorised travel agency, made payments online, and obtained their visa, travel insurance and travel documents by email.
As of now, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has approved the Package Visa services of two providers: Reservol and Almosafer.
According to the new policy, the tourist visa will be issued for three months, with a minimum of two days and a maximum of 88 days of stay in Saudi Arabia.
What is the Saudi Arabia visa pilot program?
Saudi Arabia recently launched a new Package Visa pilot programme. The new programme allows eligible travellers to get a tourist visa as part of a complete travel package through approved travel and tourism companies.
Visitors can book their entire trip on one platform, making the travel process simpler and more convenient.
The travellers will be able to book a package that includes a return flight, accommodation at licensed hotels and an electronic tourist visa application in a single booking.
What is the Saudi Arabia visa fee for Pakistan?
The Saudi visa fees in Pakistan usualluy varies widely based on the visa category. The total prices can range from roughly Rs42,000 to over Rs200,000.
Also read: NADRA announces restoration of services for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
