Saudi Arabian Visa Suspension for the Hajj Period
Since 14 April, citizens of 14 countries have been suspended from getting a Saudi visa for Umrah, business, tourism, and family visits until mid-June 2025.
The introduction of the ban is necessary to ensure safety and better control during the Hajj season.
Among the suspended countries are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Iraq, Indonesia, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Yemen, Sudan, Tunisia, and Pakistan.
As the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah states, the action was implemented as a logistical response and measure for better preparation for the pilgrimage.
It’s important to know that diplomatic visas, residency permits, and Hajj visas are unaffected, so those who are holders can proceed with their plans.
Also, travelers who perform Hajj without authorization or overstay their visas may face serious consequences, such as a five-year entry ban to Saudi Arabia.
Restrictions are needed in order to prevent illegal or unregistered pilgrims, as the crowds during the period of Hajj are large.
What Countries Are Affected by the Saudi Visa Suspension
Nationals from the countries listed below are temporarily restricted from entering Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, Umrah, and family visits:
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Libya
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Note that diplomatic visas, residency permits, and Hajj visas are still active, so holders may go to Saudi Arabia.
Why Suspension Was Introduced in Saudi Arabia
Hajj season is the period of pilgrimage, and crowds may be challenging to control. That’s why the temporary suspension was introduced.
Many travelers went to Saudi Arabia without proper authorization, interrupting the organization. To avoid tragic incidents related to heat and overcrowding, the ban is necessary to ensure safety.
Also, the suspension serves as a measure to enhance migration control and border security.
The policy change affects travelers from 14 countries, so they must be aware of possible restrictions on getting Saudi visas.
