Saudi Arabia bans visas: In a move that’s stirring conversation across South Asia and beyond, Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the issuance of certain visa types for citizens of 14 countries — including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The decision comes as the Kingdom ramps up efforts to manage the massive influx of visitors ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
But before you panic, here’s the good news: this visa suspension does not affect those traveling specifically for Hajj with proper documentation. Indian pilgrims holding approved Hajj permits can still make their way to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina as planned.
So what’s really going on?
Why?
Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world journey to Saudi Arabia for Hajj — one of the largest religious gatherings on the planet. But with the rising number of unregistered pilgrims entering on non-Hajj visas, Saudi authorities are tightening the rules to ensure safety, proper planning, and crowd control.
To stop individuals from attempting to perform Hajj unofficially — often using Umrah, business, or family visit visas — the Kingdom has temporarily suspended these categories for 14 countries, including India. The motive is very clear “protect the sanctity and safety of the pilgrimage by making sure only those with valid Hajj documentation are participating.”
When?
According to reports, foreign nationals from the 14 listed countries can still obtain visit or Umrah visas until April 13 under the current guidelines. After that date, visa issuance for these countries will be paused until further notice.
Temporary but Timely
As per multiple source of media reports, This isn’t a permanent measure, the suspension will remain in place until mid-June 2025 — around the time the Hajj pilgrimage comes to a close. Once the pilgrimage ends and the pressure on infrastructure eases, visa services are expected to resume as usual.
What Visa Types Are Affected?
The pause applies specifically to:
- Umrah visas (outside the main Hajj season)
- Business visas
- Family visit visas
The countries currently impacted by this move include:
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Egypt
- Algeria
- Nigeria
- Sudan
- Jordan
- Ethiopia
- Yemen
- Tunisia
What This Means for Travelers
If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit Saudi Arabia for Hajj with the correct paperwork, there’s no need to worry. But if your travel falls under other visa categories — like visiting family or attending business meetings — you’ll need to hold off for now.
For many, this move underscores just how complex and critical pilgrimage season is for Saudi Arabia, both logistically and spiritually. With over two million pilgrims expected this year, the Kingdom is pulling out all the stops to maintain order and safety.
Bottom line? Saudi Arabia bans visas
If you’ve got your Hajj visa, your journey remains on track. For others, patience will be key — the gates are only temporarily closed.
Source: NDTV
