Saudi Arabia bans visas for 14 countries ahead of Hajj

KATHMANDU: Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended visa issuance for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the preparation for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.

This measure aims to manage crowd control and ensure security during the Hajj season.

The visa restrictions will be in place until mid-June 2025, after the completion of the Hajj.

The countries affected by the visa ban include Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

According to Saudi officials, Umrah visas will only be issued to citizens of these countries until April 13, 2025.

After this date, new visas will not be granted until after the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage.

The decision comes as a part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to manage the large crowds and enhance safety measures during the Hajj, which sees millions of pilgrims annually.