In a move aimed at controlling congestion and ensuring safety during the Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries — including India. The temporary visa ban will remain in place until mid-June, coinciding with the completion of the 2025 Hajj season.
The affected countries are: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Algeria, Ethiopia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Saudi officials have cited increasing instances of unregistered pilgrims entering the country on non-Hajj visas and overstaying to participate in the pilgrimage. This practice bypasses the official quota system and was blamed for the overcrowding and extreme heat-related deaths of over 1,200 pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj season.
Authorities confirmed that the ban is not related to diplomatic concerns but is a logistical effort to ensure a safer and more organised pilgrimage. April 13, 2025, has been set as the deadline for issuing Umrah visas. Diplomatic visa holders, residents, and those with Hajj-specific visas remain unaffected.
Saudi Arabia has also warned that individuals performing Hajj without authorization or overstaying their visas could face a five-year entry ban. The move follows reports of visa misuse by some Indian nationals, contributing to India’s inclusion in the list.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general awareness and informational purposes only. Please consult official government and embassy sources for the latest travel guidelines and visa regulations.
