Saudi Arabia Visa Guide for Indian Travellers

From the ancient tombs of AlUla to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia is opening its doors like never before. However, the visa landscape is changing rapidly. Skyway Tours & Travels keeps you updated on the latest 2025 regulations, ensuring you choose the right visa—whether for Umrah, tourism, or business.

⚠️ 2025 Alert: Single Entry Rule

Effective February 2025, Saudi Arabia has restricted standard tourist visas for certain nationalities (including India) to Single Entry only, valid for 30 days. The previous "1-Year Multiple Entry" visa is currently suspended for standard applicants (unless you hold a US/UK/Schengen visa).

Visa Types for Indian Nationals

1. Stopover Visa (96 Hours) - Best for Umrah

Perfect for a short spiritual trip or city break. You must fly via Saudia Airlines or Flynas.

  • Visa Fee: Free (Zero!).
  • Additional Costs: You pay approx 39 SAR (Admin) + ~15 SAR (Insurance). Total is very low.
  • Validity: 96 Hours (4 Days).
  • Umrah: YES, you can perform Umrah with this visa (Book slot via Nusuk app).

2. Conditional E-Visa / Visa on Arrival

You qualify for this instant visa ONLY IF:

  • You hold a valid tourist/business visa from USA, UK, or Schengen.
  • The visa has been used at least once (entry stamp required).
  • You are traveling on a Saudi National Carrier (Saudia, Flynas, etc.) for Visa on Arrival. E-Visa can be applied online anytime.

3. Standard Sticker Visa

For those who do not qualify for the above:

  • Process: Requires physical document submission (Passport, Photos, Bank Statements) to the VFS Tasheel center.
  • Purpose: Tourism or Family Visit.

Essential Documents Required

For the Stopover or Sticker Visa assistance:

  • Passport Scan: Valid for at least 6 months.
  • Photograph: 2 recent photos (White background).
  • Flight Ticket: Confirmed booking (Must be Saudia/Flynas for Stopover).
  • Proof of Relationship: (For Family Visit Visas) Marriage/Birth certificates.

🕌 Kingdom of Culture: Things to Do

Beyond the pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia offers incredible landscapes and history:

AlUla (Hegra)

Saudi's first UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient Nabataean tombs carved into massive sandstone cliffs, similar to Petra but without the crowds.

Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad)

Walk through the narrow alleys of the old town, famous for its ancient coral-stone houses with intricate wooden latticework balconies (Roshan).

Riyadh & Edge of the World

Visit the modern Kingdom Centre tower for views, explore the clay Masmak Fortress, or drive out to the dramatic cliffs of the "Edge of the World."

Mecca & Medina

The holiest cities in Islam. While Mecca is restricted to Muslims, Medina's center is open to visitors. Use the Nusuk App to book Umrah slots.

Diriyah

The birthplace of the Saudi state. This mud-brick city on the outskirts of Riyadh has been beautifully restored with luxury dining and museums.

The Red Sea

Pristine, untouched coral reefs. New luxury resorts are opening up for world-class diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters.

✅ Why Choose Skyway Tours?

Navigating the "Stopover" vs "Sticker" choice can be confusing.

  1. Umrah Guidance: We help you understand if your visa type allows Umrah and how to download the mandatory apps (Nusuk/Tawakkalna).
  2. Flight Bundles: We book the specific Saudia/Flynas flights required to trigger the Free Stopover Visa eligibility.
  3. Insurance: We ensure your visa package includes the mandatory medical insurance coverage required for entry.

Common Questions

Can I perform Hajj with a Tourist Visa?

NO. Hajj requires a specific Hajj Visa and permit. Tourist/Stopover visas strictly allow Umrah only.

Is the 96-hour visa extendable?

No. You must leave Saudi Arabia within 96 hours. Overstaying attracts heavy fines.

Can women travel alone for Umrah?

Yes. Under the new rules, women (above 45 and increasingly even younger, depending on current policy relaxation) can obtain tourist visas and perform Umrah without a Mahram (male guardian).

Planning Umrah or a Saudi Adventure?
Let us handle your Visa & Flights!

Email: visa@skywaytourandtravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: 9496 369 777