Saudi Arabian officials have imposed a temporary visa restriction for citizens from 14 countries ahead of Hajj, effective until mid-June. This ban affects Umrah, business, and family travel visas for nations including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria. Only those with Umrah visas can enter the country until April 13.
Countries affected by the ban are: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.
The measure aims to prevent unauthorized participation in Hajj, as past incidents of visitors overstaying on multiple-entry visas led to overcrowding and security issues. Additionally, concerns about illegal employment under family and business visas prompted this decision.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged compliance, stating violations could result in five-year bans for offenders.
