Visa-on-arrival for Saudis in India

The Indian Tourism Ministry has announced that Saudis traveling in tours arranged by a tour operator can now obtain their visa on arrival at any airport in India.
The announcement came on the occasion of the 2nd India Tourism Road Show organized by the Indian Embassy and the India Tourism office on Sunday at the Hilton Hotel in Jeddah.
The tourism road show was led by Parvez Dewan of the Ministry of Tourism in India.
“Saudis wishing to travel to India must plan their trip with a Saudi travel agent who is linked to his Indian counterpart by giving 72 hours notice via e-mail.
Saudis will obtain their visa on arrival at any airport or seaport in India if they are traveling in a group of four or more people,” he explained.
Travelers can also book hotels, airplane and train tickets through the ministry's website at www.incredibleindia.org.
The ready-made tour facility will also be available on the website in two to three months.
“Last year we received 26,000 visitors from Saudi Arabia. This year, we are expecting more than 40,000. Our target is 100,000 visitors in three years,” he said.
“India is the biggest market for gems and jewelry and is renowned for its traditional handicrafts and carpets,” he said.
The most famous destinations for international travelers are Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
In addition, the wellness and medical tourism sector has been growing at a rate of 20 percent per year.
“Our regional website is now available in Arabic and the ministry is planning to have a national website in Arabic by next year. We are very serious about the Middle Eastern market,” he said.
The Indian Consulate usually takes two working days to issue visas to Saudis.
In addition, a six-month or one-year double or multiple-entry visa can also be issued on a case-by-case basis by the consul of the visa section.
“We will soon set up an Indian tourism corner at the consulate and embassy to provide tourist information for visitors,” he said.
Saudi tourism grew by 18 percent in 2012.