Saudi Arabia Bans 14 Countries – Latest Travel Updates

Saudi Arabia has temporarily restricted Umrah, business, and family visit visas for travelers from 14 countries ahead of the Hajj season. This restriction does not apply to those visiting specifically for Hajj with a valid Hajj visa.

The ban is intended to prevent unauthorized individuals from performing Hajj and to manage overcrowding at holy sites. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabia visa restrictions for 14 countries and the reasons behind this decision.

Uncover the 14 Countries Banned by Saudi Arabia

The government will refrain from issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas until mid-June 2025 for certain countries. Here’s a list of countries banned by Saudi Arabia:

1. Algeria
2. Bangladesh
3. Egypt
4. Ethiopia
5. India
6. Indonesia
7. Iraq
8. Jordan
9. Morocco
10. Nigeria
11. Pakistan
12. Sudan
13. Tunisia
14. Yemen

Must Read: A Guide to the Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians 

When Will the Saudi Arabia Visa Ban Start?

The decision to temporarily suspend the issuance of certain short-term visas for these countries took effect on April 13, 2025. This suspension is expected to remain in effect until mid-June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj season.

Why is India included in this list?

Reports indicate that some tourists from India have previously used Umrah or other visit visas to enter Saudi Arabia and overstayed to perform Hajj without official registration. This practice circumvents the Kingdom’s quota system, which is designed to regulate the number of pilgrims and ensure a safer, more organized pilgrimage.

The Saudi authorities are keen to prevent overcrowding and logistical issues, which have, in the past, led to unfortunate incidents during Hajj.

Which Visas Have Been Suspended?

The temporary suspension applies to the issuance of new applications for:

• Umrah Visas
• Tourist Visas (in some cases)
• Family Visit Visas
• Business Visit Visas

It is crucial to note that diplomatic visas, residency permits, and Hajj-specific visas remain unaffected by these temporary restrictions.

Must Read: How to Book a Saudi Arabia Visa Appointment for Indians? 

Visa Cut-Off Date and Travel Advisory

• April 13, 2025: The government suspended the issuance of new visas for the affected categories.
• Mid-June 2025: The suspension is expected to last until the end of June, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj.
• April 29, 2025: Umrah pilgrims and those on visit visas from the banned countries who were already in Saudi Arabia were given a formal deadline to exit the country by this date. Failure to comply could result in significant fines and a potential future entry ban.

Ban on Multiple-Entry Visas for 14 Countries

Saudi Arabia on 1st February 2025, restricted citizens from these 14 countries to single-entry visas only for tourism, business, and family visits. This measure was aimed to further curb the issue of tourists misusing long-term multiple-entry visas to remain in the country for unauthorized Hajj participation or illegal work.

Ban’s Impact on Travellers and Pilgrims

The visa ban has significant implications:

• Disruption for Leisure and Business Travel: Individuals planning short-term trips for tourism or business from the affected countries will find it difficult to obtain new visas until the restrictions are lifted.
• Challenges for Umrah Pilgrims: Those intending to perform Umrah outside of the official Hajj pilgrimage will need to wait until the ban is rescinded.
• Financial Losses: Travelers and tour operators who had already booked flights and accommodations based on previous visa policies may face financial losses due to cancellations or changes in travel plans.

Must Read: Is Saudi Arabia Safe to Visit? A Traveler’s Insider Guide 

What’s the Best Way to Plan Your Saudi Trip in 2025?

With changing visa regulations, travelers to Saudi Arabia-especially from the affected countries—need to stay well-informed. Here’s how to plan your trip effectively:

• Check Official Sources: Always refer to the official websites of the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and the Saudi embassy or consulate in your country. This ensures you get the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa rules and travel advisories.
• Hajj Registration: If you plan to perform Hajj, make sure to register through official channels and obtain a valid Hajj permit. Attempting Hajj without proper authorization can lead to fines, deportation, or even a ban from entering Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years.
• Alternative Timing: For tourism or business travel that isn’t urgent, it may be wise to postpone your trip until after mid-June 2025, when temporary restrictions are expected to be lifted.
• Consult Travel Agents: Reputable travel agents who specialize in Saudi Arabia can provide expert guidance and help you navigate the latest regulations smoothly.

Must Read: How to Check Saudi Arabia Visa Status Online [UPDATED] 

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FAQs

Which countries are affected by Saudi Arabia’s visa ban?

The ban impacts 14 nations, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.

What types of visas are suspended under this ban?

The government will refrain from the issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas until mid-June 2025 to the certain countries.

Are Hajj visas affected by this ban?

No, Hajj visas are not affected by this temporary ban. If you hold a valid Hajj visa, you will be allowed to enter and perform the pilgrimage.

When did the visa suspension start?

Saudi Arabia’s temporary ban on short-term visas for 14 countries, including India, began on April 13, 2025.