Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended visa issuance to citizens from 14 countries, including India. This suspension affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas. The countries impacted by this measure are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Why Did Saudi Arabia Implement the Ban?
Saudi Arabia has imposed these travel restrictions to manage the influx of pilgrims expected during the Hajj season. The move aims to prevent individuals from undertaking the pilgrimage without proper registration. The decision follows last year’s tragic stampede, which was exacerbated by extreme heat and the presence of unregistered pilgrims.
According to reports, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has instructed officials to enforce stricter visa procedures. As part of the updated regulations, the last date to apply for an Umrah visa this year is April 13. No further Umrah visas will be granted until the conclusion of the Hajj period.