Saudi Arabia has recently imposed significant changes to its visa policy affecting nationals from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Effective February 1, 2025, the Kingdom suspended the issuance of one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits for travelers from these nations. The new regulations restrict travelers to single-entry visas, valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by this change.
The primary motivation behind this policy shift is to prevent unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages. In previous years, some travelers entered Saudi Arabia on long-term visas and subsequently performed Hajj without proper authorization, leading to overcrowding and safety concerns. Notably, during the 2024 Hajj season, over 1,200 pilgrims tragically lost their lives due to extreme heat and overcrowding, prompting the government to tighten visa controls.
The list of affected countries includes:
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Travelers from these countries planning to visit Saudi Arabia are advised to apply for single-entry visas well in advance of their intended travel dates. It’s important to note that this policy is temporary and is expected to remain in effect until mid-June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj season. The government has indicated that it will assess the impact of these measures before considering any further actions.
For the most current information and guidance, travelers should consult official Saudi Arabian government sources or their local Saudi embassy or consulate.
