The suspension targets Umrah, business, and visit visas until mid-June to prevent unregistered Hajj participation and ensure crowd control.
April 7, 2025: Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas for India, 13 Other Nations Amid Unauthorized Pilgrimage Concerns
New Delhi | April 7, 2025 — As preparations for Hajj 2025 ramp up, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The visa ban will remain in place until mid-June, shortly after the Hajj concludes (June 4–9).
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The ban affects travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco, according to reports from Pakistan’s ARY News citing Saudi officials.
Why the Ban?
Saudi authorities say the move is strictly precautionary to prevent unauthorized Hajj participation. In past years, thousands have entered the kingdom on Umrah or visit visas, then overstayed illegally to join the Hajj, bypassing the official registration process and straining crowd control systems during the pilgrimage.
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In 2024, this resulted in over 1,200 deaths, largely attributed to overcrowding and extreme heat.
The visa suspension is also intended to curb illegal employment, as some travelers with business or family visas have taken up unauthorized work in the kingdom, violating Saudi labor laws.
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What Visas Are Affected?
The suspension covers:
- Umrah visas (until April 13 only)
- Business visas
- Family visit visas
However, diplomatic visas, Hajj-specific permits, and residency visas remain valid and unaffected.
Quota System in Place
Saudi Arabia operates a Hajj quota system, which limits the number of pilgrims from each country. Those using improper channels disrupt this system, leading to safety risks.
No Diplomatic Issue, Just Logistics
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah clarified that the suspension is not tied to diplomatic tensions and is purely a logistical move to ensure safety.
Travelers found violating the rules could face a five-year ban from entering the country in the future.
Saudi Arabia has urged affected travelers to respect the regulations and wait for proper authorization channels before undertaking religious or professional visits during the Hajj season.
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