Riyadh: The government of Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension of several visa categories for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The move is aimed at managing the growing influx of pilgrims during the Hajj season.
Which Saudi Arabia Visas Are Suspended?
According to multiple media reports, Saudi Arabia has halted the issuance of the following visa types:
Umrah Visas
Business Visit Visas
Family Visit Visas
This visa suspension is expected to remain in effect until mid-June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Why Has Saudi Arabia Imposed This Ban?
Saudi authorities stated that the restrictions are part of efforts to prevent unregistered pilgrims from entering the country under the guise of other visa categories. The government aims to ensure that only those with valid Hajj permits can participate in the pilgrimage, helping reduce overcrowding and enhance safety during the holy event.
Visa Suspension Details
According to diplomatic sources and a report by ARY News, the visa suspension is expected to last until mid-June, when the Hajj pilgrimage ends. However, people who already have an Umrah visa can still enter Saudi Arabia until April 13.
The affected countries include:
Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iraq, Nigeria, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen
Impact on Pilgrims
The visa restrictions come as a significant setback for thousands of would-be pilgrims from South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, where demand for Umrah and Hajj travel remains high. Many had planned to visit Saudi Arabia for religious or family reasons ahead of the pilgrimage season.
Saudi Arabia typically sees millions of visitors during the Hajj period, making crowd control a top priority for the authorities.
Consequences of Violating the Rules
Anyone who stays in the country illegally during this period may face a 5-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia in the future.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the visa pause is a way to regulate travel and protect pilgrims. They urged people to follow the new rules to avoid penalties.
Support for Pilgrims
To help people prepare for their pilgrimage, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched a digital guide in 16 languages, including Urdu, English, Arabic, and Indonesian. The guide is available in PDF and audio formats and can be downloaded from the Ministry’s official website. It provides important information to help pilgrims perform their religious duties smoothly.
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