Ahead of Hajj 1446 AH, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of visas for 14 countries, including India. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has halted the issuance of tourist, Umrah, family, and business visas in a move aimed at preventing overcrowding during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which is expected to take place on June 6 or 7, depending on the sighting of the Zil Hajj crescent moon.
The visa suspension will be effective from mid-June and will remain in place until the end of the Hajj season. The 14 countries affected by this temporary ban include Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Why Has Saudi Arabia Imposed These Restrictions?
The restriction aims to prevent individuals from performing the Hajj without proper registration. Authorities noted that many foreign nationals enter Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and then overstay their visas illegally to participate in the Hajj. According to a Pakistani news agency, individuals holding Umrah visas may enter Saudi Arabia only until April 13.
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Concerns Over Overcrowding and Safety
The decision also stems from safety concerns. Last year, around 1,200 pilgrims reportedly died during Hajj, largely due to extreme heat and overcrowding. The government observed that many pilgrims who entered on Umrah or visit visas remained in the country illegally during Hajj, causing excessive crowding in Mecca. In response, Saudi authorities have begun tightening visa restrictions to prevent similar incidents this year.