Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has completely transformed its image. From the stunning desert landscapes of AlUla, the modern vibes of Riyadh, the coastal charm of the Red Sea, to the ambitious city of the future, NEOM, the Kingdom is now on every traveler’s radar.
Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. And when you’re on the trail, always be aware of your surroundings and stay on designated paths to avoid getting lost. Additionally, it’s important to respect the environment by not littering and not disturbing wildlife.
For Indian travelers, especially, the shift has been huge:
✈️ Flight Connectivity from India:
- Direct flights now operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kochi, Ahmedabad, and more.
- Carriers like Saudia, Flynas, and even Air India are offering frequent, convenient connections to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. 📈 And the numbers speak for themselves:
- Saudi Arabia saw a 73% increase in international tourists in 2024, making it the fastest-growing tourism destination in the G20.
- With projects like The Line (NEOM) and events like MDLBEAST, Red Sea Film Festival, and Formula E, Saudi Arabia is not just opening its doors; it’s rolling out a red carpet.
Visa Made Easy: The Saudi E-Visa for Indians :
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has significantly simplified its visa process, making it easier than ever for Indian travelers to visit.
- The Tourist E-Visa: The most common and convenient option is the Tourist E-Visa, which can be applied for completely online via the official Saudi eVisa portal.
- Flexible Options: This visa is typically issued with a validity of up to one year from the date of issue and allows for multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
- Accelerated Eligibility: Indian passport holders may be eligible to apply for this streamlined process, especially if they are:
- Indian passport holders aged 18+ (minors must travel with a legal guardian).
- Holders of a valid, used (with an entry stamp) US, UK, or Schengen visa.
- Residents of GCC countries with valid residency (3+ months remaining).
Key Requirements to Mention:
- A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- A recent passport-style photograph.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets and proof of accommodation (hotel booking).
- Mandatory health insurance that covers the duration of the stay in Saudi Arabia.
Thinking of your next international trip? You might want to give Saudi a chance. You’ll come back with a different perspective.
