In a major move ahead of the 2025 Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India. The decision, which is aimed at streamlining religious travel and enhancing security during the pilgrimage period, is expected to remain in effect until mid-June.
According to reports by Pakistani news channel ARY, citing diplomatic sources, the ban includes several populous nations such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the temporary visa restrictions and clarified the rationale behind the move.
Why Did Saudi Arabia Impose the Ban?
Saudi authorities have highlighted two primary reasons for the suspension:
1. Preventing Unauthorized Hajj Participation:
The government has noticed a recurring issue where individuals with multiple-entry or non-Hajj-specific visas, such as business or Umrah visas, enter the country and attempt to join the Hajj pilgrimage illegally. This not only violates the kingdom’s regulations but also leads to overcrowding and security concerns during the highly sensitive period of Hajj.
2. Curbing Illegal Employment:
The second reason revolves around foreign nationals entering Saudi Arabia under business or family visit visas and engaging in unauthorized employment. This practice disrupts the local labor market and poses a challenge for authorities trying to regulate workforce activities.
Who Is Affected?
While those who already hold valid Umrah visas can remain in Saudi Arabia until April 13, no new visas are being issued under the restricted categories for citizens of the 14 affected countries. The temporary ban has caused concern among prospective travelers, especially those planning to visit their families or conduct business in the kingdom.
Ministry’s Official Statement
In a formal statement, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated:
“This temporary suspension aims to enhance the safety of pilgrims and improve travel regulations during the Hajj season.”
The ministry also urged travelers from the affected countries to strictly follow the rules and not attempt to misuse their travel privileges.
Reports further indicate that individuals found overstaying or participating in Hajj without proper authorization may face serious consequences — including a five-year ban on entering Saudi Arabia.
Digital Guidance for Pilgrims
To assist pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a multi-language digital guide available in 16 languages, including Urdu, English, Arabic, and French. This tool is intended to simplify the process for international pilgrims and ensure they have access to accurate and timely information.
When Will Visa Issuance Resume?
Saudi officials have indicated that the suspension is temporary and expected to be lifted by mid-June 2025. Once the Hajj season concludes and the restrictions are withdrawn, the normal visa issuance process will resume for all affected countries.
What Travelers Should Know
- Travelers with current valid Umrah visas must leave by April 13.
- Unauthorized participation in Hajj could lead to deportation and re-entry bans.
- The Saudi government is working to ensure a safe and manageable Hajj season, which attracts over 2 million pilgrims annually.
- Travelers are advised to stay informed through official Saudi portals and not rely on unauthorized agents.
This move, though temporary, reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to organizing a secure and smooth pilgrimage experience for all authorized Hajj attendees. Citizens from the affected countries, especially India, are advised to exercise patience and avoid any attempts at bypassing the rules, as violations may lead to long-term consequences.
