Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas for 14 Countries to Regulate Hajj 2025
The temporary suspension, effective April 13, aims to address overcrowding, unauthorized Hajj participation, and visa misuse following the 2024 Hajj tragedy.
- Saudi Arabia will halt issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, starting April 13, 2025.
- The suspension, lasting until mid-June 2025, seeks to prevent unauthorized Hajj participation and ensure adherence to the country's quota system.
- Diplomatic visas, residency permits, and Hajj-specific visas are not affected by the restrictions.
- Authorities cite the 2024 Hajj tragedy, where over 1,000 unauthorized pilgrims died due to overcrowding and extreme heat, as a key factor behind the new measures.
- Violators of the visa suspension may face a five-year entry ban, underscoring the kingdom's focus on safety and compliance.
NDTV 
Hindustan Times 