Saudi Arabia Visa ban: Saudi Arabia banned visas of 14 countries including India and Pakistan, why did they take this decision?:

Saudi Arabia Visa ban: Saudi Arabia has temporarily banned the issuance of visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The ban on Umrah, business and family visit visas will remain in effect until mid-June, which coincides with the conclusion of the pilgrimage to Mecca. This ban applies to 14 countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen and Morocco. Pakistan's ARY has given this information quoting Saudi officials.

Why was this step taken?

The move was reportedly taken to prevent individuals from trying to perform Hajj without proper registration. However, individuals holding Umrah visas can still enter Saudi Arabia until April 13.

The report said the ban was needed because many foreign nationals have entered the country on Umrah or visit visas in the past and then illegally overstayed to attend the Hajj without official authorisation, leading to overcrowding and extreme heat. At least 1,200 pilgrims were killed in one such incident during the Hajj in 2024.

Punishment will be given for violating the decision

The kingdom has a quota system, which allocates specific Hajj slots to each country to regulate the number of pilgrims. People participating in Hajj illegally circumvent this system. The report said that authorities have asked the affected pilgrims to follow the new rules, as individuals violating the order could face a five-year ban on future entry.

From when to when is Hajj?

Meanwhile, diplomatic visas, residence permits and special visas for Hajj will remain unaffected by the move. The Hajj 2025 season is scheduled for June 4-9.

Another reason behind the move was illegal employment. Officials said foreigners, using business or family visas, were engaged in unauthorized work in Saudi Arabia, violating visa rules and causing disruptions in the labor market.

What is the assurance of the Ministry of Umrah?

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has assured that the move has nothing to do with diplomatic concerns and was taken only as a logical response to ensure a safe and better organized pilgrimage.