Explore Makkah (Mecca)
Mecca is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It attracts millions of Muslims annually for the Hajj pilgrimage, a religious duty for all able-bodied Muslims. The city is home to the Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world, and the Kaaba, the spiritual center of Islam. During Hajj, the city transforms into a bustling hub of spirituality and devotion, hosting over 2 million pilgrims. In recent years, Mecca has undergone significant modernization to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Projects like the Abraj Al-Bait Towers, which include the world’s largest clock face, and expansions of the mosque complex have enhanced its infrastructure. These developments aim to provide better facilities and transportation for pilgrims, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience. Despite its modern touches, Mecca retains its deep spiritual and historical significance. From the Cave of Hira, where the Quran was first revealed, to the surrounding sacred sites, the city embodies a profound connection to Islamic heritage. Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering Mecca, preserving its sanctity as a place of worship and reflection.
Country
Saudi Arabia
Best Time to Visit
January, February, October, November, December
Ideal Duration
n/a
Visa Rules
Last updated: 2025-04-24 04:21:31
Tourist Visa
Saudi Arabia now offers tourist eVisa to eligible nationalities, including Indian citizens, allowing for tourism, leisure, and family visits. The eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days. Umrah (but not Hajj) is also permitted under the tourist eVisa.
Indian citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism. They can apply for an e-visa for tourism purposes, but the previous multi-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits are no longer being issued.
Types of Tourist Visas
- eVisa (Electronic Visa) – Available for citizens of eligible countries.
- Visa on Arrival – Available for certain nationalities.
- Consulate Visa – For those not eligible for eVisa or visa on arrival, through Saudi embassies.
Application Process:
1. Online Form:
o Complete the online visa application form on the official Saudi Arabia visa portal: MOFA Visa Portal.
o Once the form is completed, you will receive a MOFA reference number.
2. Print and Submission:
o Print the MOFA reference number.
o Submit the printed MOFA number along with the required visa support documents.
3. Authorized Agents:
o Visa applications should be submitted through authorized agents only.
Required Documents:
To get a Saudi Arabia tourist visa, Indian citizens must meet the following requirements:
- Passport: A valid Indian passport with at least six months' validity from the date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.
- Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background, showing a natural expression, with no glasses or headgear, except for religious purposes.
- Application form: A completed visa application form for Saudi Arabia.
- Travel arrangements: Proof of your travel plans, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations.
- Financial documents: Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay.
- Travel insurance: Health insurance approved by the Saudi government, valid throughout the duration of your stay.
- Purpose of visit documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, additional documentation may be required, such as a letter of invitation from a Saudi entity or proof of your relationship with the person inviting you.
Disclaimers
The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.
Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
Visa Application Centres and Embassy Information
Embassy of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Delhi
Address: 2- Pachchimi Marg, Vasant Vihar. New Delhi-110057
Tel : 00911143244444
Email : inemb@mofa.gov.sa
The official website for applying for a Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa is:
For other types of visas (such as work, business, or family visit visas), or if you're not eligible for the eVisa, you can apply through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs at:
Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs