Saudi Arabia has introduced a new package tourist visa programme aimed at making travel easier for international visitors, with Pakistan among the first seven countries selected for the initiative.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the new system combines visa processing, flight bookings, hotel reservations and travel arrangements on a single platform, eliminating the need for travelers to complete separate procedures.

The programme initially covers citizens of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan and Mexico. Under the new scheme, eligible travelers will not need to submit a separate tourist visa application. Instead, they can purchase an approved travel package that includes airfare, accommodation at licensed hotels and an electronic tourist visa.

Saudi media reports said the e-visa will be issued within 48 hours of completing the package booking. The process also removes the need to visit a Saudi embassy or submit traditional visa applications, making travel arrangements faster and more convenient.

Saudi authorities have approved travel service providers including Reservool and Almosafer to offer the service. Travelers will receive their visa, travel insurance and other required documents electronically after completing online payments.

The single-entry tourist visa issued under the programme will remain valid for three months. Visitors will be allowed to stay in Saudi Arabia for a minimum of two days and up to 88 days.

Tourism experts believe the initiative will make travel to Saudi Arabia easier for Pakistani visitors and could help boost tourism, business travel and people-to-people connections between the two countries.