In a recent move to manage the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India. This suspension is effective until mid-June 2025, aligning with the conclusion of the Hajj season. The decision aims to address concerns related to overcrowding and unauthorized participation during the pilgrimage.
Back in February, they issued another restriction for these 14 countries, aiming to prevent unauthorized Hajj pilgrims from entering the country with long-term visa.
Key Changes in Visa Policy in the old circular was:
- Single-Entry Visas Only: Travelers from these countries can now only apply for single-entry visas.
- Validity and Duration: Each visa is valid for 30 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit.
- Exemptions: Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas are not affected by this change.
But presently they are more strict to prevent any unwanted accident, as happened in 2024.
Reasons for the Suspension
Saudi authorities have observed instances where individuals from these countries entered the kingdom on Umrah or visit visas and overstayed to perform Hajj without official registration. Such unauthorized participation bypasses the established quota system, which allocates specific Hajj slots to each country to regulate pilgrim numbers. This misuse has contributed to overcrowding and safety concerns during previous pilgrimages.
Why is India included in this list?
India’s inclusion in this list is linked to documented cases of visa misuse by some nationals attempting unauthorized Hajj participation. Saudi officials aim to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, especially considering the tragic events of the 2024 Hajj, where over 1,200 pilgrims died due to overcrowding and extreme heat. Unregistered pilgrims often lack access to essential services like lodging, transportation, and healthcare, exacerbating safety risks.
Warnings
Saudi authorities have cautioned that individuals performing Hajj without authorization or overstaying their permitted duration may face a five-year entry ban. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasizes the importance of adhering strictly to official channels and regulations to ensure a safe and organized pilgrimage.
The nations impacted by this decision are:
- Yemen
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
Final Remarks
This temporary visa suspension reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to manage pilgrim numbers effectively and ensure compliance with official Hajj regulations. Prospective travelers from the affected countries are advised to stay informed about these changes and adjust their plans accordingly to avoid any complications during the Hajj season.
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