In a strategic move aimed at ensuring a safer and more regulated Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary ban on issuing Umrah, family visit, and business visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The decision comes just weeks ahead of Hajj 2025 and is expected to remain in effect until mid-June, the time when the pilgrimage concludes. This restriction has been introduced to curb overcrowding and prevent unauthorized attempts to perform Hajj, which saw tragic consequences in 2024 when over 1,000 unregistered pilgrims died due to stampedes and heat exhaustion.
According to multiple news outlets, the countries affected by the suspension include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan, Libya, Syria, Somalia, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. While official confirmation from Saudi ministries is pending, the growing concern is that many individuals have been misusing Umrah and visit visas to remain in the Kingdom illegally during Hajj. Authorities revealed that this practice puts excessive pressure on logistics, medical services, and security, especially during peak pilgrimage days in Mecca.
As a result, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has instructed immigration and religious authorities to enforce stricter checks and ensure that only properly registered pilgrims are allowed to participate in Hajj 2025. April 13, 2025 has been marked as the last day for issuing visit-related visas for citizens of these 14 countries. After this date, no fresh visas will be granted until after the Hajj season concludes.
For aspiring pilgrims from India and other affected nations, the visa suspension has come as a devastating setback, especially for those who had made early bookings through travel agencies or were planning to visit family while performing Umrah. Religious tour operators in cities like Mumbai, Dhaka, and Lahore are now flooded with refund requests and calls for clarity.
Experts believe this move could help Saudi Arabia regulate the flow of pilgrims, reduce risk, and maintain crowd control—crucial elements in organizing one of the world’s largest religious events. The ban, while disruptive, is being viewed by Saudi authorities as a necessary step for public safety. Affected individuals are being urged not to travel on expired or misused visas, as the Saudi government has vowed to strictly monitor entry points, enforce penalties, and deport violators.
While the global Muslim community waits for official notices and potential updates on the policy, those planning Hajj from affected countries are advised to stay in touch with authorized travel operators and follow updates on the official Hajj & Umrah Ministry portals. As of now, the priority for Saudi Arabia is clear: deliver a smooth, safe, and strictly regulated pilgrimage that honors the spirit of Hajj while preventing another humanitarian crisis.
Stay tuned to ibizznews for further updates.
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