Saudi Arabia has recently launched an exciting development in its visa system, introducing a new multiple-entry visit visa. This visa allows travelers to make multiple visits to the country within a one-year period, providing more flexibility for those wishing to explore or conduct business in Saudi Arabia.

Expanded Eligibility and On-Arrival Convenience

A significant aspect of this new visa is the expanded eligibility criteria. Previously, only certain nationalities could obtain visas on arrival, while others had to apply through the Saudi embassy. However, the Saudi government has now extended this privilege to citizens of India and Pakistan, marking the first time they can obtain a Saudi visa on arrival. To be eligible, travelers must hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa stamped on their passports.

Skip the Consular Visa Process

For Indians, Pakistanis, and other nationalities, the introduction of the visa on arrival eliminates the need to go through the consular visa application process. This streamlines the procedure and saves time and effort for those planning to visit Saudi Arabia for various purposes, including tourism, business meetings, or family visits.

Key Features of the Multiple-Entry Visit Visa

• Validity: The multiple-entry visit visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
  
  
• Number of Entries: Travelers can visit Saudi Arabia multiple times within the visa's validity period.
  
  
• Visit Duration: Each visit can last up to a maximum of 90 days, providing ample time to explore the country or complete business engagements.
  
  
• Umrah Pilgrimage: Muslim pilgrims undertaking the non-compulsory Umrah pilgrimage can also benefit from this visa. The Umrah pilgrimage can be performed at any time of the year, making it a flexible option for religious travel.

Exclusions and Hajj Visa Requirement

It is important to note that while this multiple-entry visit visa accommodates Umrah pilgrims, it is not applicable for those intending to perform Hajj. Hajj is the most significant pilgrimage to Mecca and follows specific dates based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Travelers planning to perform Hajj must obtain a separate visa specifically designed for this purpose.

In summary, the introduction of the new multiple-entry visit visa in Saudi Arabia offers increased convenience and accessibility for travelers. This development is particularly significant for Indian and Pakistani nationals, who can now obtain a Saudi visa on arrival, provided they hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa. Whether for tourism, business, or religious purposes, this visa allows for multiple visits and a longer stay duration, making Saudi Arabia more accessible and inviting for international visitors.

How can Indians and Pakistanis obtain a Visa On Arrival for Saudi Arabia?

• The visa on arrival can be obtained at the immigration counter at any airport in Saudi Arabia once the traveler has disembarked their aircraft.
• Fee for the visa must be paid by card; cash is not accepted.
• Traveler's passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months.
• Passport must bear a stamp signifying a valid visa from the United Kingdom, United States of America, or the Schengen Area of Europe.
• The UK, US, or Schengen visa must have been used at least once before entering Saudi Arabia.
• Travelers with these visas but no prior usage will not be granted a Saudi visa on arrival.
• The visitor must have arrived in Saudi Arabia on a Saudi airline (Saudi Airlines, Flynas, or Flydeal) for the first visit when applying for the multiple-entry visa on arrival.
• Once the traveler has their Saudi multiple-entry visa, they may enter the country on any airline during subsequent visits.

eVisa Option

• Visitors from other countries may be eligible to apply for the Saudi Arabia eVisa instead of the visa on arrival.
• The eVisa can be obtained online.
• However, nationals of Pakistan and India are currently ineligible for the Saudi eVisa.

Important Note

• All travelers should check worldwide visa information before their trip to ensure they have the correct documentation.

Embarking on the Spiritual Journey: Pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj

Two of the most significant journeys for Muslims are the pilgrimages of Umrah and Hajj, both of which entail a visit to the sacred city of Mecca.

The Hajj

The Hajj is an obligatory religious duty for all physically capable Muslims, to be undertaken at least once in their lifetime. It takes place from the 8th to the 12th of the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar each year.

• Special Visa: Travelers participating in the Hajj must acquire a specific visa for this purpose.
• Visa Restrictions: The new multiple-entry visa on arrival does not allow Muslims from India and Pakistan to enter Saudi Arabia for the Hajj.
• Umrah Access: However, the multiple-entry visa does grant access for Muslims to enter the country for the purpose of performing the Umrah.

The Umrah

The Umrah is a similar pilgrimage to Mecca, although it is not obligatory like the Hajj. It can be performed at any time of the year and is typically of shorter duration.

• Visa Requirements: Muslim travelers from India and Pakistan who possess a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa stamp in their passports can obtain a visa on arrival to complete the Umrah.

Non-Muslim Restrictions

Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Travelers from India and Pakistan who follow different faiths or do not practice any religion are only eligible for a Saudi visa on arrival for touristic purposes and are unable to visit these sacred sites.

It is advisable for all travelers to verify the visa requirements before embarking on a trip to Saudi Arabia.