Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of 2025 Hajj

Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of 2025 Hajj

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended specific visa categories for citizens of 14 countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, and India, ahead of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. The suspension affects Umrah, family visit, and business visas, aiming to address overcrowding and safety concerns during the holy event .

Affected Countries

– *Nigeria*
– *Egypt*
– *India*
– *Pakistan*
– *Indonesia*
– *Iraq*
– *Sudan*
– *Jordan*
– *Ethiopia*
– *Tunisia*
– *Yemen*
– *Algeria*
– *Bangladesh*
– *Morocco*

Reasons for Suspension

The decision is a response to growing concerns about overcrowding, illegal overstays, and unregulated pilgrim activities. In 2024, thousands of deaths were attributed to overcrowding and extreme heat conditions during the Hajj. Saudi authorities aim to ensure better crowd control and improve safety and logistics for the upcoming pilgrimage .

Impact on Pilgrims

The suspension won’t affect pilgrims who have completed their registration through designated Hajj commissions or approved travel agents. However, individuals from the affected countries attempting to enter Saudi Arabia on alternative visa types to participate in the Hajj without formal authorization will be barred.

Timeline

The visa suspension takes effect on April 13, 2025, and will last until mid-June, when the Hajj season concludes. Travelers from the affected countries with valid visas can still enter the Kingdom until April 13, but must exit by April 29 .