Big blow for Indian Hajj pilgrims as Saudi 'temporarily' bans visa from 14 countries

In a significant move ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of certain types of visas to citizens from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The decision comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to regulate the flow of foreign visitors during Hajj and prevent the illegal participation of unregistered pilgrims, which has been a persistent issue in recent years.

According to multiple media reports, the visa ban—set to last until the middle of June when the annual Hajj concludes—has raised concerns among thousands of people planning to visit Saudi Arabia for religious or personal purposes.

Which visas are affected?

Under the newly announced guidelines, the suspension applies to:

• Umrah visas
• Business visit visas
• Family visit visas

This restriction prevents citizens from the listed countries from entering Saudi Arabia on these categories of visas during the peak Hajj season. Authorities have clarified that the last day to apply for Umrah visas is 13 April. No Umrah visas will be granted after this date until Hajj is completed.

Why did Saudi Arabia suspend visas?

Saudi officials have stated that the move is aimed at stopping individuals from attempting to perform the Hajj without proper registration or permits. In recent years, many visitors have reportedly been entering the country on Umrah or visit visas and then overstaying illegally to join the pilgrimage. These unauthorised pilgrims are said to have contributed to severe overcrowding and logistical challenges for the authorities during Hajj.

The decision also follows the 2024 Hajj tragedy, where over 1,000 people reportedly died, many of whom were unauthorised pilgrims. Overcrowding, coupled with extreme heat, was cited as the main cause of the incident. Officials now believe that tightening visa controls is essential to prevent such tragedies and ensure the safety of legitimate pilgrims.

Saudi Crown Prince calls for stricter enforcement

Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has instructed officials to enforce stricter regulations on visa issuance and monitor entry procedures more rigorously during the Hajj season. He has ordered that special attention be given to ensure that only pilgrims with proper documentation are allowed into Mecca and Medina during the holy season.

Violators who overstay their visas or are found attempting to perform Hajj without the required authorisation could face severe consequences, including a five-year entry ban from Saudi Arabia.

List of countries under visa suspension

While the Saudi government has not released an official list, reports confirm that 13 of the 14 countries affected by the temporary visa suspension are:

• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Nigeria
• Jordan
• Algeria
• Sudan
• Ethiopia
• Tunisia
• Yemen

One additional country is reportedly under the same restrictions, although its identity has not been publicly disclosed.

Digital guide for pilgrims launched

To further assist in managing the pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have launched a digital guide for Hajj and Umrah, available in 16 languages. The guide is designed to educate pilgrims about official procedures, safety measures, and legal regulations to be followed during their stay in the Kingdom.

Officials have reiterated that the restrictions are temporary and are being implemented solely to streamline the Hajj experience and protect the well-being of all participants.