New Delhi: Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India temporarily. This ban is effective until mid-June 2025, which overlaps with the ending of the season of Hajj. The decision strives to address problems related to overcrowding and safety during the Hajj. The authorities have set April 13, 2025, as the last date for issuing Umrah visas. After this set time, no new visas of these types will be given to residents of the affected countries until the Hajj is completed.
The 14 countries that are impacted by this visa suspension are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
The inclusion of India in this ban is part of the measures taken by Saudi officials to control any unauthorised participation in Hajj. Reports reveal that some people from India and other countries that are on the list have entered Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and have overstayed to perform Hajj without going through proper official tracks. This practice also overlooks the quota system of the place, where specific Hajj slots are assigned to every country to control the number of pilgrims and the over-rush.
Tightening visa regulations is important to prevent any tragedy – Authorities
As per the sources, Saudi officials have mentioned that the overcrowding and excessive heat resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 pilgrims during Hajj in 2024. These unauthorised pilgrims do not have access to basic amenities such as lodging, transportation, and healthcare, which worsens safety hazards and logistical challenges. Officials say that narrowing the visa regulations is important to prevent similar tragedies.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have mentioned that this step is crucial and aims at providing a safer and better-organised pilgrimage. It has nothing to do with diplomatic issues.
