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Saudi Arabia has announced a significant opportunity for travelers from India by introducing a stopover visa facility. This move aims to attract Indian travelers for spiritual pilgrimage and tourism, fostering stronger ties between the two countries. Al Hassan Al Dabag, the Asia Pacific President of Saudi Tourism Authority, made this announcement in a recent meeting, highlighting the potential of India's leading role in Saudi Arabia's growing tourism sector.
Every year, thousands of people visit Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and Hajj rituals. Indian citizens currently have permission to perform Umrah with business, tourism, and Umrah visas. Moreover, travelers flying with Saudi Airlines or FlyNas, a private budget airline, are eligible for a free 96-hour stopover visa. Additionally, travelers with US, UK, or Schengen visas can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The new Saudi 96-hour stopover visa, valid for three months, allows travelers to stay in the country for four days. They can visit mosques, participate in tourism activities, and explore major destinations hassle-free. The visa application process is streamlined, with applicants receiving their visas promptly through the unified national visa platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
The procedure to apply for a Saudi 96-hour stopover visa varies based on the airline you choose. Travelers flying with Saudia or Flynas can apply online during the booking process on their websites. They need a valid passport, a personal photo, and a flight itinerary. Visa fees cover electronic service, medical, and insurance charges.
For travelers flying with other airlines, the visa application is processed through the Saudi e-visa portal. Requirements include a valid passport, personal photo, credit card, and flight itinerary. Additionally, travelers must possess a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, or a residence permit from one of these countries.
A stopover visa grants travelers the opportunity to briefly explore a country while en route to another destination. Unlike transit visas, stopover visas permit entry into the country for limited activities such as Umrah, tourism, or business.
In Saudi Arabia, the 96-hour stopover visa is available for travelers from India flying with Saudia or Flynas, or holding valid US, UK, or Schengen visas. This visa facilitates Umrah, visits to the Prophet's Mosque, tourism events, and sightseeing opportunities. The visa application process is simple and convenient, empowering travelers to make the most of their visit to Saudi Arabia.
The cost of a Saudi 96-hour stopover visa depends on the airline and visa type. Travelers flying with Saudia or Flynas enjoy a free visa, while those flying with other airlines and possessing eligible visas pay a nominal fee. These fees cover administrative, medical, and insurance charges, ensuring a seamless travel experience for Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia.
- If you are traveling with Saudia or Flynas, the visa itself is free, but there are additional administrative and medical insurance fees. The total fees might differ based on your nationality and where you are going, but they are usually about $403.
- If you are flying with a different airline and have a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, you can opt for an e-visa or get a visa upon arrival. This option costs $120, covering the visa fee, electronic service fee, medical fee, and insurance fee.
