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Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary visa ban, halting Umrah, business, and visit visa issuance for 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The suspension, effective from April 13, aims to prevent unregistered pilgrims during Hajj 2025 and ensure a safer pilgrimage season.
Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage, business, or family? Be aware of a significant, temporary visa ban that affects multiple visa categories. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has recently announced restrictions, suspending the issuance of popular visa types for nationals from 14 countries.
This move comes as the nation prepares for the annual Hajj pilgrimage and aims to ensure a smoother, safer experience for all involved.
Why the Sudden Visa Ban?
The core reason behind this temporary suspension is managing the vast numbers of people who undertake the Hajj pilgrimage. Saudi authorities have indicated that the measures aim to prevent overcrowding and stop individuals from attempting to perform the Hajj without official permits.
Concerns grew as many visitors entered on Umrah or visit visas and overstayed to perform Hajj illegally, worsening crowd issues. Following the 2024 Hajj tragedy that claimed over 1,000 unregistered lives, stricter visa rules aim to ensure safety and prevent future incidents.
Which Saudi Visas Are Affected?
The temporary visa suspension specifically impacts the following visa categories:
• Umrah Visas: For the lesser pilgrimage.
• Business Visit Visas: For short-term business trips.
• Family Visit Visas: For visiting relatives residing in the Kingdom.
Travellers seeking these specific visas from the listed countries will face temporary hurdles.
Is Your Country on the Visa Ban List?
While one country hasn’t been identified in all reports, the 13 confirmed nations currently facing these visa suspensions are:
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen.
Travellers from the affected countries should be aware of the suspended visa categories. While 13 nations have been confirmed, our research shows a 14th—possibly Morocco—though it has not been officially named.
Visa Cut-Off Date and Travel Advisory
• April 13, 2025: Last day for Umrah or visit visa issuance to citizens of the listed countries.
• Mid-June 2025: Estimated end date of the restriction, coinciding with the conclusion of Hajj.
Travellers from affected nations are advised not to book or plan travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or visitation during this period unless they are part of an officially registered Hajj group.
Ban on Multiple-Entry Visas for 14 Countries
In addition to the current visa ban, Saudi Arabia has also restricted multiple-entry visas for all 14 affected countries. Effective February 1, 2025, only single-entry visas will be issued. This policy aims to curb unauthorized Hajj participation and strengthen compliance with immigration regulations.
Impact on Travellers and Pilgrims
This decision is a major setback for:
• Thousands of Muslims from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are planning Umrah during Ramadan.
• Tour operators and agencies offering religious packages to Mecca.
• Families hoping to reunite during Eid through visit visas.
Saudi authorities have urged all visitors to follow official Hajj registration protocols to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Planning Your Saudi Trip: Stay Informed
While these restrictions are temporary and focused on the Hajj period, the situation highlights the importance of adhering to official visa regulations.
1. Check Official Sources: Always consult the official Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or the Saudi embassy/consulate in your country for the latest visa information before making travel plans.
2. Hajj Registration: If planning for Hajj, ensure you go through the official registration channels designated for your country.
3. Alternative Timing: If your travel is flexible and involves an affected visa type, consider planning your trip for after mid-June 2025, when restrictions are expected to lift.
Saudi Arabia’s goal is to ensure that the Hajj remains a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience. These temporary measures, while disruptive for some, are part of that larger effort.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/saudi-arabia-ban-umrah-visit-visa-14-countries-april-13-2025/
