As the annual Hajj pilgrimage draws near, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India and Pakistan. The suspension affects Umrah, business, family visit, and similar categories, with authorities aiming to prevent the influx of unregistered pilgrims.
The decision, reportedly taken by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, comes in response to last year’s Hajj, during which over 1,200 pilgrims died due to overcrowding and related issues. Officials believe the presence of unregistered individuals was a key factor behind the chaos and loss of life.
In a bid to streamline the pilgrimage process this year, Saudi authorities have moved swiftly to reinforce visa regulations. The temporary suspension is part of efforts to ensure only registered pilgrims enter the country during the sacred period.
However, the restrictions do not apply to diplomatic visa holders, residents, or officially registered Hajj pilgrims. Citizens from the affected countries who fall under these exempted categories can still travel to the Kingdom as usual.
The countries impacted by the suspension are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Algeria, Jordan, Iraq, Nigeria, Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Officials have not confirmed how long the suspension will last, but it is expected to remain in place until the conclusion of the Hajj season to ensure better crowd management and safety of pilgrims.
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