Saudi Visa Suspension Hits 14 Countries — Are we Affected? Yes
In a significant move, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of Umrah visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India, citing concerns over crowd management and health safety ahead of the upcoming Hajj season. The decision, while temporary, has raised concerns among pilgrims and travel agencies alike, particularly in countries with large Muslim populations.
List of Affected Countries
According to reports, the countries affected by the visa suspension include:
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Egypt
- Tunisia
- Iran
- Turkey
- Afghanistan
- Ethiopia
- Sudan
- Nigeria
- Yemen
- Lebanon
The suspension primarily targets Umrah visas, which allow Muslims to perform the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca outside the designated Hajj season. Regular tourist and business visa services are reported to be operating normally, though travelers are advised to check with the Saudi consulate or embassy in their respective countries.
Reason Behind the Move
Saudi authorities have not issued a formal statement naming a single cause, but experts point to a combination of factors:
- Hajj 2025 Preparations: With the annual Hajj pilgrimage approaching (expected to begin in mid-June 2025), the Saudi government typically reduces the issuance of new Umrah visas to ensure logistics and crowd management for the larger event.
- Overcrowding Concerns: In recent months, there has been a surge in the number of pilgrims visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, leading to overcrowded conditions that pose logistical and safety challenges.
- Health Protocols: With seasonal diseases and heat waves impacting the region, health authorities are also exercising caution to prevent outbreaks during mass gatherings.
Impact on Indian Pilgrims
India, which sends hundreds of thousands of Umrah pilgrims annually, is one of the countries most affected by the suspension. Travel agencies have begun informing clients of the suspension, and many have been forced to cancel or postpone their travel plans.
Mr. Faisal Khan, a Mumbai-based Umrah tour operator, said:
“This move is unfortunate but not unexpected. Every year, as Hajj nears, Saudi authorities manage the inflow of pilgrims more strictly. We hope the suspension is lifted after Hajj concludes.”
Advisory for Travelers
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised prospective pilgrims from the affected countries to refrain from booking or traveling for Umrah until further notice. Travelers with existing bookings are advised to contact their travel agents for alternative arrangements or refunds.
Embassies and consulates in affected nations are expected to issue more detailed guidance in the coming days.
What’s Next?
While the suspension is temporary, no specific date has been given for its lifting. Historically, Umrah visa services resume shortly after the conclusion of the Hajj season.
Until then, pilgrims and travel companies are urged to stay updated through official Saudi government channels and to avoid relying on rumors circulating on social media.
