Saudi Arabia has announced the temporary suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, India, and Pakistan, as part of measures to regulate the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. The restrictions, effective immediately, will remain in place until mid-June 2025, when the annual religious event concludes.
According to officials speaking to ARY News, the decision targets individuals attempting to perform Hajj without official permits. “The suspension is aimed at preventing unregistered pilgrims from overwhelming the system and compromising safety,” a Saudi authority stated. The move follows growing concerns over visa misuse, with many visitors overstaying or working illegally in the Kingdom.
The affected countries are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco. Umrah visa holders already approved will be allowed entry until April 13, after which all non-Hajj visas will be paused.
Crackdown Follows Deadly 2024 Hajj Season, Overcrowding Concerns
The suspension comes after a tragic 2024 Hajj season, where 1,301 pilgrims died—primarily from heat-related illnesses—with a significant number lacking official permits. Saudi authorities reported that approximately 400,000 unregistered pilgrims participated last year, many from Egypt, straining resources and emergency services.
“Unregistered pilgrims often lack access to air-conditioned tents, medical care, and transportation, putting their lives at risk,” a Saudi health official explained. The Hajj quota system allocates limited slots per country via lottery, but high costs drive many to seek unauthorized routes.
The Saudi foreign ministry emphasized that the measures are designed to “streamline travel procedures and enhance safety.” Violators face severe penalties, including a five-year entry ban. The government also aims to curb labor market disruptions caused by visitors exploiting business visas for illegal work.
