Saudi Arabia Bans Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of Hajj
The temporary visa ban is a measure to prevent unauthorized individuals from performing Hajj without proper registration and to control overcrowding, and it is expected to improve safety conditions during the pilgrimage. The ban will be lifted after the Hajj pilgrimage concludes in mid-June, and pilgrims from the affected countries who have secured valid Hajj permits will be allowed to participate in the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary ban on the issuance of certain visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, until the end of the Hajj pilgrimage in June, in an effort to prevent unauthorized individuals from performing Hajj without proper registration and to control overcrowding.
The ban, which affects Umrah visas, business visit visas, and family visit visas, is aimed at addressing overcrowding and safety concerns at the holy sites in Mecca. The restriction comes ahead of the Hajj season, which is set to begin shortly after the Umrah season ends. The last date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom is April 13, and failure to adhere to the deadline may result in penalties of up to SR100,000 for overstaying visas or violating pilgrimage regulations.
The list of countries affected by the ban includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and one unidentified country. However, pilgrims from these countries who have secured valid Hajj permits or intend to procure one will be allowed to enter Mecca and Medina to participate in the pilgrimage. The Saudi authorities hope that restricting the number of visitors will improve safety conditions during Hajj, which sees tens of thousands of pilgrims crammed into holy sites.
The ban is expected to be lifted after the Hajj pilgrimage concludes in mid-June, and the Saudi government has warned service providers and sponsoring agencies to ensure strict compliance with the departure timeline to avoid any penalties. The move is part of the government's efforts to improve coordination and ensure a safer and more organized pilgrimage.