To manage overcrowding during Hajj, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India. The other affected nations are Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Morocco, and Yemen.
In a move to manage the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage more effectively, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India. This suspension is set to last until mid-June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj season.
The 14 countries affected by Saudi Arabia’s temporary visa suspension are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.
Saudi authorities have indicated that individuals holding valid Umrah visas can enter the Kingdom until April 13, 2025. No new Umrah visas will be issued until after the Hajj period concludes.
The decision aims to prevent unauthorized participation in Hajj and manage overcrowding during the pilgrimage. In previous years, some individuals entered Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and overstayed to perform Hajj without official authorization, leading to safety and logistical challenges.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has emphasized that this measure is a logistical step to ensure a safer and better-organized pilgrimage and is not related to diplomatic issues. Diplomatic visas, residency permits, and Hajj-specific visas remain unaffected by this suspension.
Travelers from the affected countries are advised to comply with the new regulations to avoid penalties, including potential entry bans of up to five years for violations.
This temporary suspension underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims during the Hajj season.
