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As the Hajj pilgrimage approaches, Saudi Arabia has placed a temporary halt on the issuance of particular visas for citizens of 14 nations, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This suspension, which affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas, will last until approximately mid-June, aligning with the end of the pilgrimage in Makkah. The affected countries encompass India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco. This action aims to prevent individuals from attempting to perform Hajj without proper registration. However, those with Umrah visas are still permitted entry into Saudi Arabia until April 13, according to ARY from Pakistan, citing Saudi sources.
The rationale behind this ban stems from a history of foreign nationals entering Saudi Arabia with Umrah or visit visas, subsequently overstaying illegally to take part in Hajj without the necessary authorization. This has historically resulted in overcrowding and perilous heat conditions; for instance, in a tragic incident during Hajj 2024, over 1,200 pilgrims lost their lives. The kingdom enforces a quota system that assigns a specific number of Hajj slots to each nation, intended to manage the number of pilgrims. Those who participate in Hajj unlawfully circumvent this established system. Additionally, concerns regarding unauthorized employment contributed to this decision, as authorities noted that some foreigners have misused family or business visas to engage in unapproved work within Saudi Arabia, violating visa stipulations and causing disruption in the labor market.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that this decision is not linked to diplomatic issues but is a logistical measure aimed at guaranteeing a safer and more orderly pilgrimage experience. Reports indicate that affected travelers are urged to adhere to the new regulations, with violators potentially facing a five-year ban on future entries. However, it is important to note that diplomatic visas, residency permits, and visas specifically related to Hajj remain unchanged by this measure. The Hajj season for 2025 is scheduled for June 4-9.
