By Sitaram Mewati
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) unveiled a range of new tourism initiatives, attractions and travel facilitation measures during an industry event in New Delhi, highlighting the country’s continued efforts to strengthen tourism ties with India, one of its key source markets.
The event brought together leading outbound tour operators and media representatives to showcase Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism infrastructure, new hospitality developments and visitor experiences aimed at attracting more international travellers.
Among the key announcements was the launch of the new Package Visa, a fully digital initiative that integrates tourist visa applications with travel bookings through authorised travel partners. The system allows travellers to complete visa formalities while booking flights, accommodation and tourism experiences as part of a single package.
The authority also presented updates on several hospitality projects, including Miraval The Red Sea, Six Senses AMAALA and Four Seasons Resort & Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on luxury and wellness tourism.
Officials highlighted upcoming leisure attractions such as Six Flags Qiddiya City, expected to feature some of the world’s tallest, longest and fastest roller coasters, and Aquarabia, which is set to become the Middle East’s largest water theme park.
The event also outlined improvements in air connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia. Flyadeal has recently launched direct services between Riyadh and Hyderabad, while Riyadh Air is scheduled to begin operations on the Riyadh–Mumbai route from August 4, further enhancing travel links between the two countries.
Participants were briefed on seasonal summer offers available through September 2026 at hotels and resorts in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Red Sea Global destinations and Jeddah. Curated travel itineraries covering Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla and the Red Sea region were also presented for different traveller segments.
The programme concluded with networking sessions and a Red Sea-inspired resin art workshop, reflecting Saudi Tourism Authority’s continued engagement with the Indian travel trade as the country expands its tourism offerings and international visitor outreach.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
