Why Saudi Arabia Stopped Visas for 14 Countries Before Hajj 2025?

To ensure the safety and proper management of the Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has paused issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries. This includes India. The suspension will continue until mid-June 2025.

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Why India Is on the List?

India was included due to several reported cases of people using Umrah or visit visas to join the Hajj unofficially. This bypasses the official quota system meant to control the number of pilgrims from each country.

Visa Suspension Aims to Prevent Overcrowding

In 2024, over 1,200 pilgrims died during Hajj due to heat and overcrowding. Saudi authorities believe many of them were unregistered pilgrims who lacked access to basic services like shelter and medical help.

Only Specific Visas Are Banned by Saudi Arabia

This visa ban only applies to Umrah, business, and family visit visas. People with Hajj-specific visas, diplomatic visas, or valid residency permits will still be allowed to travel.

Penalty for Breaking Hajj Rules

Saudi Arabia has warned that anyone performing Hajj without proper registration or overstaying their visa will be banned from entering the country for five years.

List of Countries Affected by the Visa Ban

The 14 countries on the list are:

India

Pakistan

Bangladesh

Indonesia

Nigeria

Egypt

Sudan

Tunisia

Algeria

Morocco

Iraq

Jordan

Yemen

Ethiopia

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