Saudi Arabia has banned the entrance of Umrah pilgrims and tourists into the kingdom ahead of the Hajj ritual within the kingdom.
In recent reports circulating in the media, the government of Saudi Arabia has banned religious pilgrims from visiting Mecca or Medina during the hajj season. All Umrah pilgrims, visitors and tourists are not allowed to enter the kingdom. Saudi Arabia has imposed visa restrictions and an entry ban on citizens from 14 countries, including Pakistan and India.
The visa-banned countries include Pakistan, India, Morocco, Tunisia, Yemen, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, Jordan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Iraq, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. These restrictions would take effect on 13th April 2025. They also warned that non-compliance could result in a five-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia.
As per the sources, the suspension applies to Umrah, business, and family visas, with restrictions expected to end by mid-June.
However, the officials confirmed that individuals holding Umrah visas can still enter Saudi Arabia until 13th April.
What are the Reasons Behind the Visa Suspension?
Saudi officials cited several factors behind the temporary visa ban, and the main reason is to avert unauthorized Hajj participation. Earlier, a large number of visa holders entered the country during the Hajj season and stayed illegally to perform Hajj, leading to overcrowding and safety risks.
Details of visa ban and penalties:
Umrah visa holders can enter the Kingdom by 13th April 2025.
Visa services will remain functional during the Hajj Season 2025.
The government banned Umrah, tourist, family visit, and business visas.
Saudia imposes penalties to control illegal entry and fake Hajj participation:
• Fines up to SAR 1 million
• Jail for 15 years
• Seizure of vehicles or properties used in facilitating illegal hajj practices.
In recent weeks, the Saudi government has detained more than 18,000 violators, further directions are intended to enforce this gravely.
Saudi government has urged people to rely on official channels for more information related to travel and visa policies, particularly during the Hajj season.
