Saudi Arabia is offering a 96-hour free visa to Indian citizens,

The newly introduced visa by Saudi Arabia has a validity of three months and is issued free of cost enabling visitors a stay of 96 hours or four days in Saudi Arabia, facilitating activities such as Umrah or other travel explorations. 

In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen cultural ties, Saudi Arabia has announced a game-changing initiative, offering a 96-hour stopover visa exclusively for Indian travelers. This unprecedented visa provision allows Indian tourists to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions of the Kingdom during a short layover.

The 96-hour stopover visa is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to diversify its economy and promote tourism. Indian travelers, known for their penchant for cultural experiences and historical exploration, are expected to be among the primary beneficiaries of this new visa offering.

Referring to this initiative, Alhasan Aldabbagh highlighted the significance of the Indian market for Saudi Arabia. He stated, "India is a priority market for Saudi. Last year alone, we welcomed 1.5 million visitors from India, presenting a remarkable 50 percent growth. Looking ahead, our objective is to attract 7.5 million visitors from India to Saudi Arabia as part of our vision for 2030."

Under the terms of the visa, Indian tourists with a valid onward ticket and a visa for their final destination can enjoy a brief yet immersive visit to Saudi Arabia. This four-day window facilitates activities such as Umrah, visits to the Prophet's mosque, or participation in tourism events. 

The Kingdom's move to ease visa restrictions aligns with its broader vision to attract investments worth 220 billion Saudi Riyals in the tourism sector by 2023 and a more substantial 500 billion Saudi Riyals by 2030, according to previous statements by the Minister of Tourism.

Indian travelers, long fascinated by the rich tapestry of Saudi Arabian history and culture, are expressing excitement about this opportunity. The visa initiative is expected to enhance people-to-people connections, fostering a deeper understanding between the two nations.

This strategic move by Saudi Arabia not only opens its doors to Indian tourists but also sets a precedent for other countries looking to tap into the vast potential of the Indian travel market. As the tourism landscape evolves, such initiatives contribute to creating a more interconnected and culturally enriched global community.