Umrah on a Layover? Saudi Arabia’s Free Transit Visa Has a Catch

Saudi Arabia’s new travel update is suddenly making long layovers feel… useful. If you are someone searching for a perfect layover stop then book cheap flights to Riyadh, trust us, you won’t regret it. The Saudi Arabia Free transit visa is becoming a big talking point, especially for Indian travellers who often route through Jeddah or Riyadh. With this move, the Kingdom is quietly pushing its Vision 2030 (Saudi Arabia’s tourism goal) and religious tourism is clearly a big piece of that puzzle.

For travelers who are planning to stay in the kingdom the process is still the same, you can apply for Saudia Arabia visa online and start your journey within a few clicks.

What’s New for Transit Travellers?

The Saudi Arabia Free transit visa lets transit passengers stay in the country for up to 96 hours, and that short stay is enough for many to complete Umrah or simply explore a bit. It’s technically a 96-hour stopover visa, a single-entry permit with a validity (90 days, 3 months) from the date of issue. There’s also the Saudi Arabia Stopover visa, which works similarly but the focus right now is on this free option that people are talking about everywhere.

Travellers flying with Saudia Airlines or Flynas get the visa during the issuance process itself while booking the ticket online, no long forms, no complicated visa conditions, nothing. It’s almost a visa exemption, except for minor charges: a small application fee, a compulsory medical insurance insurance fee, and that’s about it (a proper fee waiver, compared to a regular Umrah visa).

You just need an Onward flight ticket, passport validity (6 months), and quick Registration on the Nusuk.sa platform (Umrah/Ziyarah booking) since mandatory booking of slots is becoming stricter.

What Changed For Indians?

For Indians, especially those planning a short pilgrimage, this is convenient, cheap, and honestly a time-saver. It even works for GCC residents, tourists, and global pilgrims looking for cultural and tourism visits.

This also ties into the rising demand for Saudi Arabia visa for Indians, with many now mixing Umrah and sightseeing under the same Saudi’s Free transit visa. And yes, the 96-hour stopover visa can be used for tourism too. Choose to stay in some of the best hotels in Riyadh near the airport. Opt for all-inclusive Saudi Arabia tour packages and enjoy your layover period comfortably.

Final Thought

The Saudi’s Free transit visa, the Saudi Arabia Free transit visa, and the broader Saudi’s 96-hour visa scheme are turning casual layovers into small spiritual trips or even mini vacations. A small policy change, a big shift for travellers.

FAQs – Saudi Arabia’s Free Transit Visa

Does Saudi Arabia require a transit visa for a layover?
You might need one, it all depends on the length of your layover and whether you plan to leave the airport. For layovers under 12 hours on the same airline, a transit visa isn’t needed.

How much is the Saudi transit visa fee?
While the visa itself is free when booking with Saudia or Flynas, there are minimal mandatory fees for processing and medical insurance. Otherwise, an electronic transit visa costs around SAR 100.

Is Saudi Arabia visa-free for Indians?
No, Indian citizens are not visa-free for Saudi Arabia, but they can apply for a Saudi Arabia e-visa. For a visa on arrival, Indians need to hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa and must travel on a Saudi national carrier.

Do I need a transit visa for a 7-hour layover?
If you’re on a single booking and staying within the airport, you won’t need a transit visa for a 7-hour layover. However, if you’re traveling with different airlines or need to leave the transit area, you will need a visa.

Who can enter Saudi visa-free?
Visa-free entry is generally limited to citizens of specific, visa-exempt countries. The free 96-hour transit visa is only available to international travelers who have booked their flights with Saudia or Flynas.

What is the 96-hour transit visa?
It’s a free visa offered by Saudia and Flynas for passengers with an international layover in Saudi Arabia, allowing a maximum 4-day (96-hour) stay for tourism, a business stop, or to perform Umrah. The visa is processed and issued almost instantly during the flight booking.

Can I get a visa on arrival at any Saudi airport?
Visa on arrival is available only to those from certain eligible countries or for specific cases, like Indian nationals holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa and arriving on a Saudi carrier. It’s not a universal option for all visitors.

How much is the transit visa fee?
The visa itself is technically free, but a basic medical insurance fee and a small application fee are required. For example, Saudia and Flynas charge around SAR 39.50 for the application and SAR 13 for insurance.

Don’t Stop Here; Keep Reading!

Top Things To See In Saudi Arabia In 2021 For A Fun Vacay
7 Things To Know If You’re On A UK Tour From Saudi Arabia
Travel Updates for Indians: Do You Know the Latest Rules Before Your Next International Flight?

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