Saudi Arabia launched the KSA visa application platform

Saudi Arabia has launched a new national visa application platform called KSA Visa. According to Arab News, the system brings together more than 30 ministries, agencies and private sector organizations to facilitate visa applications for Hajj, Umrah, tourism, business travel and employment. The launch comes shortly after the visit of Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Tawfigh bin Fawzan Al Rabia, to India. The initiative is expected to benefit Indian Hajj pilgrims. A local publication reports that 20,000 Indian pilgrims are expected to visit Saudi Arabia this year.
KSA Visa uses advanced technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help users identify available visa types. The centralized intelligent search engine provides detailed instructions on visa requirements and application procedures.

Saudi Arabia's move is part of the emirate's ambitious strategy to attract more tourists and reach its target of 150 million visits per year by 2030. According to Saudi Gazette, the country has issued more than 18.6 million visas in 2023 and reduced the processing time for e-visas to 60 seconds.

Saudi Arabia is also working on a special system to provide flexibility to pilgrims from India throughout their journey, especially women who are on pilgrimage alone such as the Umrah. As part of the new measures, the validity period of the visa for the Umrah has been extended to 90 days and the country has also introduced a four-day transit visa to cater to the growing influx of Indian pilgrims.

By promoting gender equality and creating a safer and more conducive environment, these changes aim to ensure a more fulfilling and safe pilgrimage for all travelers, Mr. Al Rabia said. He expects the number of Indian Umrah pilgrims to increase in the near future through effective initiatives to improve the pilgrimage experience.