A realm where time-honoured tales meld seamlessly with the whispers of modernity. Step into a world where the iconic Al-Masjid al-Haram stands as a testament to faith's splendour, while the ethereal landscapes of Al-Ula beckon with ancient secrets etched in rock. Wander through bustling souks fragrant with exotic spices, then escape to tranquil deserts that cradle the stars. Saudi Arabia isn't just a destination; it's an odyssey into a dreamy mosaic of culture, heritage, and the promise of adventure.
To make your Saudi dream come true, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a revolutionary move to boost its tourism sector by introducing an e-visa program for Indian passport holders with valid UK, US, or Schengen visas that have been used once. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) announced this development in early 2023, heralding a new era of accessibility and convenience for Indian travellers looking to explore the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Saudi Arabia.
The initiative aims to simplify the process of obtaining a Saudi visa for eligible Indian tourists.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
- The traveller must be a citizen of India.
- A valid passport, with a minimum validity of six months, is required.
- A valid UK, US, or Schengen visa that has been used at least once is a prerequisite.
- A return ticket to India and a medical insurance policy covering the stay in Saudi Arabia are mandatory.
2. Application Process:
- Visit the official Saudi Arabia visa website.
- Click on the "Apply for e-Visa" button.
- Create an account and log in.
- Provide passport information, contact details, and travel itinerary.
- Upload scanned copies of the passport and a recent photograph.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Review the application details and submit.
3. Approval and Documentation:
-- If the application is approved, the e-visa will be sent to the applicant's email inbox.
- Print out the e-visa and carry it along while travelling to Saudi Arabia.
- The e-visa is valid for one month and allows a stay of up to 90 days.
4. Contact Information:
For any doubts about eligibility or the application process, Indian travellers can contact the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate in their country.
STA's Vision and Goals:
The Saudi Tourism Authority President stated that India is one of the fastest-growing markets for Saudi tourism. Around 10 lahks (1 million) Indian visitors travel to Saudi Arabia each year.
The goal is to attract over a crore (10 million) visitors from India by 2030, across various categories like culture, leisure, heritage, and adventure experiences.
Expanding Access:
Saudi Arabia is also facilitating travel with a 96-hour stopover visa and the opening of 9 VFS Tasheel Visa offices across India, offering streamlined administrative services to prospective travellers.
Transition to Tourist Destination:
Saudi Arabia is transitioning from being primarily a pilgrim destination to a tourist hotspot, aiming to attract more than 10 lakh visitors from India in 2025.
The nation seeks to tap into different types of tourism, including leisure, culture, heritage, and adventure experiences.
Attractive Initiatives:
Collaborations with the Tata Indian Premier League (IPL) for seasonal campaigns and bespoke promotional packages to position Saudi as a premier leisure destination.
An upcoming Diwali campaign to forge connections with Indian travellers and showcase Saudi's dedication to fostering cultural ties.
Growth Projections:
Indians are noted for having the highest spending among all source markets in Saudi tourism. The primary purposes of visits are visiting friends and family, followed by business and pilgrimage.
The highest contribution came from travellers visiting friends and family, followed by business purposes and journeys to visit Hajj and Umrah.
The STA's ambitious goal is to double visitation numbers in 2023 and surpass 12 million Indian visitors by 2030, offering a diverse range of experiences.
To conclude, Saudi Arabia's new e-visa policy marks a pivotal step toward bridging cultures and enhancing tourism, cementing its position as an enticing destination for Indian travellers. As the country evolves from its pilgrimage roots, it invites explorers to experience its multifaceted charm, from historical heritage to thrilling adventures. With a forward-looking approach and appealing initiatives, Saudi Arabia beckons Indian tourists to create unforgettable memories on its soil.
Planning to visit Saudi Arabia soon? Do not miss out on our guide to help you explore the best of the country.
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