Saudi Arabia Halts Visas for India and 13 Other Nations Until Hajj 2025 Ends: What You Need to Know -

In a move that’s caught the attention of thousands of hopeful travellers, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended certain visa categories for 14 countries — including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh — until mid-June 2025. If you or someone you know was planning a religious or family trip to the Kingdom, here’s everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabia visa ban.

Why Has Saudi Arabia Imposed This Visa Ban?

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According to multiple reports, the visa suspension is aimed at regulating crowd control during the 2025 Hajj season. Last year’s Hajj saw tragic overcrowding incidents, with over 1,000 fatalities — many of whom were unregistered pilgrims. In response, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has directed officials to enforce stricter visa rules.

The idea is to stop misuse of visit and Umrah visas by travellers attempting to stay in the country illegally and participate in the Hajj without proper registration. By halting visas temporarily, Saudi Arabia hopes to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage this year.

Who Is Affected by the Saudi Arabia Visa Ban?

This temporary restriction applies to citizens of the following countries:

India
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Egypt
Indonesia
Iraq
Nigeria
Jordan
Algeria
Sudan
Ethiopia
Tunisia
Yemen
(One more country not yet officially disclosed)

Which visas have been suspended?

If you’re from one of the affected countries, the following visas from Saudi Arabia are currently suspended:

Umrah Visa
Business Travel Visa
Family Visit Visa

However, reports suggest that visas may still be processed until April 13, 2025. After this date, the ban will be fully enforced until the conclusion of Hajj in mid-June.

💡 Note: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet issued an official statement. We’ll update this blog as soon as it’s released.

What This Means for Indian Travelers

For many Indian families, especially the elderly planning to perform Umrah or visit loved ones in Saudi Arabia, this sudden halt is a huge blow. India sends thousands of pilgrims every year, and this visa pause could lead to logistical and emotional challenges.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t about political tension — the move is seen more as a safety and regulatory measure ahead of a large religious gathering. If you’re affected, it’s best to hold off on travel plans until mid-June or stay in close contact with travel agencies and official Saudi portals for updates.

🔗 Check Official Updates: Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)

A Lesson from the 2024 Hajj Tragedy

The decision to implement the Saudi Arabia visa restriction comes in the wake of a tragic Hajj season in 2024, where more than 1,000 lives were lost due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Many of those victims had entered the country using visit or Umrah visas and attempted the pilgrimage illegally.

By enforcing tighter visa controls this year, Saudi Arabia is trying to avoid another humanitarian disaster.

🔗 Also Read: What went wrong during the 2024 Hajj – Al Jazeera

Final Thoughts

The Saudi Arabia visa ban is a temporary measure — but one with deep implications for families, religious pilgrims, and business travellers. While it may be frustrating in the short term, it’s a move aimed at safety, order, and honouring the sanctity of the Hajj.

If you’re planning to travel later this year, keep checking for updates and stay informed through trusted sources like: