With Saudi Arabia introducing simpler visa options for Indian tourists, now is the ideal time to explore the sacred sites of Mecca and Medina, as well as the tranquil waters of the Red Sea.
Planning a Visit to the Middle East? Discover the Luxuries of Saudi Arabia
Are you planning to visit the Middle East and seeking a luxurious vacation? Saudi Arabia is your crown jewel destination, offering serene waters of the Red Sea, natural wonders of the vast Arabian desert, and breathtaking skyscrapers. Rich in cultural heritage and modern marvels, Saudi Arabia has become increasingly popular among travelers. The spiritual allure of Mecca and Medina attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a luxurious retreat with family and friends, Saudi Arabia promises to captivate you throughout your vacation.
Visa Process and Requirements
Previously, Indian tourists faced a lengthy visa process, but now Saudi Arabia has introduced a simplified visa series for Indian tourists under its Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to make India its number-one tourism market. Saudi expects almost 2.2 million Indian travelers to visit by the end of 2024.
New Visa Options for Indians
Saudi Arabia’s tourism authority has launched various tourist visa options, including stopover visas and eVisas, to encourage visitors to explore the kingdom conveniently.
Stopover Visa If you’re traveling via Saudi Arabia and wish to spend 3-4 days, Indian travelers can now apply for a Stopover visa valid for up to 96 hours. This visa can be obtained 90 days in advance on the Saudia airline website for a nominal fee, allowing exploration of the Kingdom’s vibrant cities during the layover.
eVisa and Visa on Arrival Indian citizens holding a valid tourist or business visa from the United States, United Kingdom, or any Schengen country with stamped proof of entry are eligible to apply for the eVisa or Visa on Arrival. Those with a valid residence visa from a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country with a minimum validity of three months beyond the entry date into Saudi Arabia can also obtain the same visa. Permanent residents of these countries can apply at self-service websites or passport control offices at Saudi airports.
Multiple Entry Visa This visa option caters to various travel purposes, including religious events, tourism, seminars, and family functions. Valid for one year with multiple entries, it allows tourists to stay for up to 90 days per visit. However, it does not grant permission to reside, study, or work in Saudi Arabia.
All these visa options are valid for those wishing to perform Umrah. Indian travelers not eligible under the above categories can directly apply through Tasheer Centres across India. Currently, there are 10 visa facilitation centers in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Calicut. To book an appointment, visit the official website of Tasheer Visa Centres.
Required Documents
- Original Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Two recent photographs with a white background
- Flight booking with a confirmed return air ticket
- Confirmed hotel accommodation booking/voucher for the duration of stay
- Proof of solvency: Updated Original Bank Statement maintained for the last 3 months with a minimum balance of Rs. 63,000 per applicant
- The age of the applicant must be at least 18 years unless accompanied by their guardians
Travel Logistics
Saudi Arabia is a popular travel destination among explorers and is well connected by air and land. Although opting for the sea route may be costly, a railway project connecting India to Saudi Arabia is under discussion, which could make the journey cheaper for pilgrims. Situated almost 4 to 5 hours of air travel from India, airports at Al-Ahsa and Mecca are the nearest. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India Express, and Saudia provide services between India and Saudi Arabia, with round tickets costing between Rs. 19,000 to Rs. 30,000.
Land travel is also an option, but it will be a more than 3-day long and complicated journey of almost 6130 km. Navigating Saudi’s vibrant cities has never been easier, with various options like renting a car, using affordable public transport, or booking rides online through applications like Careem and Uber. Saudi’s high-speed rail operates between Makkah and Al Madinah in western Arabia, and domestic trains connect north to east Arabia.
Luxurious Accommodations
Saudi Arabia offers a range of luxurious accommodations, from huge skyscrapers to budget-friendly options and lavish retreats. The Saudi riyal (SAR) is the official currency, with 1 SAR currently valuing 22.25 Indian Rupees. A 7-day trip may cost between Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 1,50,000 depending on your travel style.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is from November to February when the weather is mild. Travelers usually avoid the intense heat of the summer months, from April to October.
Language
Arabic is the official language, with three regional variants: Najdi Arabic, Hejazi Arabic, and West Arabian Arabic. However, due to the diversity and large number of expatriates, English is widely spoken.
Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Post-pandemic, Saudi Arabia has reported significant growth in its tourism sector. The diverse landscapes, ancient culture, and modern cities offer unique experiences. From the awe-inspiring northern Orche deserts to the white-sand atolls of the Red Sea coast in the south, Saudi Arabia has something for everyone.
For history enthusiasts, Riyadh, the capital city, offers museums, the old Diriyah fort, and the giant open-air art gallery. Taif provides natural retreats, rose fields, and breathtaking views. The UNESCO heritage city Al Balad, known for its coral houses and ancient walkways, is also worth visiting.
Saudi’s Red Sea coast spans over 2000 km, offering trails to hike, stunning views, and thrilling water activities like kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Alula is a blend of nature, wildlife, culture, and modern architecture, with rock formations and hot air balloon rides. The Edge of the World near Riyadh provides an uninterrupted view across the arid landscape.
For a turquoise water island experience like the Maldives, Umluj is the perfect spot, where you can spot dolphins along the stunning shoreline of the Red Sea. Other scenic sites include the desert city Diriyah, Al Ahsa’s Al Qarah Mountain, and Rijal Alma, where you can explore and indulge in ethnic and majestic experiences.
Explore Saudi Arabia, a land of rich cultural heritage and modern marvels, and create unforgettable memories.
