Saudi Arabia Temporarily Suspends Short-Term Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of Hajj 2025
In preparation for the upcoming Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension of short-term visas for citizens of 14 countries. This measure, effective from April 13, 2025, aims to manage crowd control and ensure the safety of pilgrims during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
🛑 Affected Visa Categories
The suspension applies to the following visa types:
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Umrah Visas
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Business Visit Visas (single and multiple entry)
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E-Tourist Visas
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Family Visit Visas
Travelers holding valid visas issued before April 13 are permitted to enter Saudi Arabia until that date and must depart by April 29, 2025. Failure to comply may result in fines up to SAR 100,000 .
🌍 Countries Affected
The 14 countries impacted by this suspension are:
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Algeria
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Bangladesh
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Egypt
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India
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Indonesia
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Iraq
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Jordan
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Libya
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Morocco
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Nigeria
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Pakistan
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Sudan
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Tunisia
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Yemen
This decision is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to regulate the influx of visitors and prevent unauthorized participation in the Hajj pilgrimage
🕋 Reason Behind the Suspension
The temporary visa suspension aims to:
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Prevent unauthorized Hajj participation: Ensuring that only those with proper Hajj permits partake in the pilgrimage.
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Manage overcrowding: Addressing concerns from previous years where unregulated attendance led to safety issues.
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Maintain the integrity of the quota system: Each country is allocated a specific number of Hajj visas to manage the number of pilgrims effectively .
📅 Resumption of Visa Services
Visa issuance for the suspended categories is expected to resume after Dhul Hijjah 20, which corresponds to July 16 or 17, 2025, depending on the lunar calendar .
⚠️ Important Notes for Travelers
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Hajj-specific visas remain unaffected: Pilgrims with valid Hajj permits can proceed with their plans.
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Strict penalties for non-compliance: Overstaying or violating visa terms can result in hefty fines and potential bans.
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Stay informed: Travelers are advised to consult official Saudi channels or their local embassies for the latest updates.
This temporary measure underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe and organized Hajj season for all pilgrims.
