Saudi Arabia is now one of the most welcoming destinations in the Middle East. With its growing tourism scene – from AlUla’s ancient wonders to Riyadh Season’s global festivals – the Kingdom has simplified its visa process and launched new discounted and flexible offers for 2025.
Let’s explore all the current visa types, offers, costs, and benefits available this year.
1.Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa
The Saudi eVisa is the easiest and most popular way for tourists to enter the country. It’s available for travelers from over 60 countries, including India, the UK, the USA, Canada, the EU, and many Asian nations.
2.Free 96-Hour Transit Visa (New for 2025)
Saudi Arabia now offers free transit visas for passengers flying with Saudia Airlines or Flynas.
Key Features:
- Stay up to 96 hours (4 days) in the Kingdom.
- Free of charge when you book a flight through the airline’s website.
- Perfect for stopovers in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam.
- Includes access for Umrah pilgrims.
- Travelers can extend the stay for an additional 48 hours (with small fee).
3.Umrah + Tourism Visa (Dual Entry Program)
Launched in 2024 and continuing in 2025, this visa allows pilgrims to perform Umrah and explore Saudi Arabia in the same trip.
Key Benefits-
- Valid for 90 days.
- Available to all Muslim travelers.
- Can visit Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, AlUla, and more.
- Family and group packages available with discounts on accommodation.
Cost-
From SAR 400 (≈ USD 107),special offers with Saudia and Flynas include discounted airfares + visa fees waived for select packages.
4.Family & Group Travel Offers (2025 Winter Season)
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has launched special family visa bundles for winter 2025.
Offer Highlights:
- Children under 12 travel visa-free when accompanied by two paying adults.
- 5% discount for group applications of 5+ travelers.
- Visa + Hotel + Activity bundles via Visit Saudi and partner travel agencies.
Valid Until-
31 March 2025 (during the Saudi Seasons period).
5.Business & Event Visa (New Streamlined Option)
Saudi Arabia’s global business and events scene is booming -with international summits, expos, and sporting events across Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM.
Key Features
- Online multiple-entry visa, valid for 1 year.
- Fast-track for conference and expo attendees.
- Includes limited tourist access for leisure activities.
Cost-
SAR 480 (≈ USD 128), Free for invitees of approved business events.
6.Visa on Arrival (Expanded List 2025)
Travelers from eligible countries can now get a visa on arrival at Saudi airports.
Eligible Nationalities:
USA, UK, EU Schengen Area, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Kazakhstan, and select GCC residents.
Details-
- Valid for 1 year, multiple entry.
- Stay up to 90 days per visit.
- Can be extended online.
Cost: Around SAR 480 (≈ USD 128)
7.GCC Resident eVisa (Special 2025 Category)
If you hold a residency permit in any GCC country (UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, or Bahrain), you can now apply for a special eVisa, regardless of nationality.
Advantages-
- Apply online before travel.
- Valid for 1 year, multi-entry.
- Processing in under 5 minutes.
Cost- SAR 300 (≈ USD 80)
8.Seasonal Promotions & Discounts (2025)
Saudi Arabia is promoting its “Winter in Saudi” campaign with various visa-related perks:
- 25% off on eVisa fees.
- 15% off select hotels in Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and Abha.
- Free museum or attraction entry for first 10,000 visitors
Diriyah & AlUla Special Pass:
Includes discounts on heritage site tickets and guided tours.
With simplified visa rules, faster online processing, and exciting new offers, Saudi Arabia in 2025 is one of the most accessible travel destinations in the region.
From the ancient mud walls of Diriyah to the futuristic Red Sea resorts and NEOM’s highlands, there’s never been a better time to discover the Kingdom.
Whether you’re planning a short layover, a family winter vacation, or a spiritual journey, these new visa offers make your Saudi experience smoother, richer, and more affordable than ever.
How Akbar Travels Can Help-
At Akbar Travels, we are committed to providing travelers with the best possible experience. With the launch of this new service, our customers can now plan multi-destination trips that combine both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain seamlessly.
Flight + Boat Packages: Book a flight to Saudi Arabia and continue your journey to Bahrain by boat.
Holiday Packages: Explore curated tours that include hotel stays, sightseeing, and smooth boat transfers.
Visa Assistance: Our team can guide you with all visa requirements for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Customer Support: With 24/7 assistance, we are here to make your trip smooth from booking to boarding.
