Additionally, reports state that the recently implemented visa is free of charge and has a three-month validity period, allowing applicants to apply up to ninety days in advance of their planned trip dates. This visa makes it possible to enter Saudi Arabia for 96 hours, or four days, which makes it easier to do things like the Umrah, see the Prophet’s mosque, or take part in tourism-related events.
An important step toward improving travel chances between the two countries is Saudi Arabia’s decision to provide Indian residents a free 96-hour visa.
During a recent meeting, Saudi Tourism Authority President for Asia Pacific Alhasan Aldabbagh made the news. With this calculated action, Saudi Arabia is recognizing that India is an important market for its rapidly growing tourist industry.
With plans to expand further in the future year, there are now 10 VFS locations in India that provide simplified visa access. The Saudi Arabian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, confirmed to reporters in New Delhi that Indian individuals are now able to do Umrah on business, tourist, and Umrah visas.
A key component of this project is the launch of a stopover program that offers free 96-hour visas to travellers using Saudi Airlines or Flynas, a low-cost commercial aircraft operating out of Saudi Arabia. To further simplify travel, passengers with a US, UK, or Schengen visa may also apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival.
Alhasan Aldabbagh promoted the importance of the Indian market for Saudi Arabia, citing this project. “India is a priority market for Saudi. Last year alone, we welcomed 1.5 million visitors from India, presenting a remarkable 50 per cent growth. Looking ahead, our objective is to attract 7.5 million visitors from India to Saudi Arabia as part of our vision for 2030.”
Additionally, reports state that the recently implemented visa is free of charge and has a three-month validity period, allowing applicants to apply up to ninety days in advance of their planned trip dates. This visa makes it possible to enter Saudi Arabia for 96 hours, or four days, which makes it easier to do things like the Umrah, see the Prophet’s mosque, or take part in tourism-related events.
Aldabbagh stated that in order to speed up the application process, the applications would be automatically transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MOFA) unified national visa platform. This would guarantee quick processing and the issuance of the digital visa, which would be emailed to the beneficiary.
According to prior remarks made by the Minister of Tourism, Saudi Arabia hopes to draw investments in the tourist industry of 220 billion Saudi Riyals by 2023 and a much larger 500 billion Saudi Riyals by 2030, all in line with its larger goal. This program represents a turning point in the development of stronger relations and more travel between Saudi Arabia and India.
Must Read: Thrilling adventures to do in Dubai and free places to have a blast !
Comments are closed.