Saudi Arabian authorities have temporarily stop issuing certain types of visas to travelers from 14 countries, including Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and Egypt. The move comes as part of preparations for the upcoming 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The suspension affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas, and will begin in April 2025. It will last until the end of the Hajj season, which is expected to wrap up by June. This decision, however, does not impact those who have already registered through official Hajj programs.
Pilgrims from these countries who are approved through proper Hajj channels will still be allowed into the Kingdom to carry out their religious rites.
Saudi officials noted that this step was taken to address growing concerns about crowd control and safety during the pilgrimage. In recent years, the number of unauthorized pilgrims entering on non-Hajj visas—such as Umrah or visit visas—has increased.
Many of them end up joining the Hajj rituals without proper registration or support from licensed tour operators. This often results in overcrowding, security challenges, and strain on public services.
The decision also appears to be a direct response to the 2024 Hajj season, which was marred by several tragic incidents. Extreme heat and overcrowding contributed to the deaths of thousands of pilgrims, according to multiple reports. Authorities are now stepping up measures to avoid a repeat of such chaos.
Starting from April 13, people from the affected countries will no longer be able to obtain visit-related visas during the Hajj window.
Countries Affected by the Visa Suspension
- India
- Egypt
- Pakistan
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Nigeria
- Sudan
- Jordan
- Ethiopia
- Tunisia
- Yemen
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Morocco
