Buzzflix Updated: Apr 8, 2025
Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended Umrah, business, and family visits visas for citizens of 14 countries including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, until mid-June 2025.
Saudi Arabia Visa Ban 2025: What It Means for Indian Pilgrims Ahead of Hajj
In a surprising move just ahead of the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended visa issuance for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This ban applies to Umrah, business, and family visit visas and is expected to remain in effect until mid-June 2025 — the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Why Did Saudi Arabia Suspend Visas?
According to official Saudi statements, the visa suspension is a crowd control and safety measure. Authorities aim to prevent a repeat of the tragic 2024 Hajj stampede, which was reportedly caused by extreme heat and an influx of unregistered pilgrims.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has directed a tightening of visa protocols. As part of these changes, April 13, 2025, has been marked as the final date to apply for Umrah visas. No new Umrah visas will be issued until after the Hajj concludes.
This move may also discourage illegal stays and unauthorized Hajj attempts, which have put enormous pressure on the country’s infrastructure during previous pilgrimages.
Who Is Affected by the Ban?
As per multiple media reports, the following 14 countries fall under the current visa suspension:
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Nigeria
- Jordan
- Algeria
- Sudan
- Ethiopia
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Thousands of pilgrims from these nations embark on Hajj and Umrah every year, making this a deeply disappointing development for many.
Digital Guide for Safe Pilgrimage
In an effort to maintain order and promote legal pilgrimage procedures, Saudi authorities have launched a digital Hajj and Umrah guide in 16 languages, including Hindi, Urdu, and Bengali. This guide emphasizes the importance of using valid Hajj permits, and warns:
Anyone found overstaying during Hajj without proper documentation could face a five-year entry ban and a fine of SAR 10,000.
What Pilgrims Should Do Now
If you’re planning to visit Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah in 2025, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Check the official Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah site regularly for updates.
Avoid making travel plans with non-licensed tour operators.
Apply for visas only through approved channels.
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