Saudi Arabia is offering 96-hour stopover visa to Indian travellers

Saudi Arabia is offering a 96-hour free visa to Indian citizens, which is seen as a significant step in enhancing travel opportunities between the two nations.

The announcement was made by Alhasan Aldabbagh, President – Asia Pacific, Saudi Tourism Authority, during a recent discussion. 

This strategic move reflects the acknowledgment of India's pivotal role as a key market for Saudi Arabia's burgeoning tourism sector.

The streamlined visa access encompasses the presence of 10 VFS offices in India, with plans for further expansion in the upcoming year.

Notably, Indian citizens are now permitted to undertake Umrah on business, tourism, and Umrah visas, as affirmed by Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, the visiting Saudi Arabian Minister of Hajj & Umrah, in New Delhi.

A noteworthy part of this initiative is the introduction of a stopover program, providing a 96-hour free visa to individuals traveling through Saudi Airlines or Flynas, a private Saudi low-cost airline.

Additionally, travelers holding a US, UK, or Schengen visa are eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival, contributing to the overall ease of travel.

Referring to this initiative, Alhasan Aldabbagh emphasised the importance of the Indian market for Saudi Arabia.