This policy, which took effect in February, aims to prevent unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages and to enhance the safety of attendees at this significant religious event.
Individuals from these countries will no longer be eligible for the one-year multiple-entry visa, which was previously available for tourism, business, and family visits.
As reported by TravelBiz, the one-year multiple-entry visa has been suspended for travelers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Under the new regulations, only single-entry visas will be issued to travelers from these nations, valid for 30 days without the possibility of extension.
The new visa policy outlines significant changes for travelers from specific nations. Under the revised guidelines, these individuals will be issued a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, with no possibility for extension. This policy affects tourists, business visitors, and those visiting family, but does not apply to applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.
Saudi officials have indicated that the misuse of multiple-entry visas has become a pressing concern, with many individuals using long-term visas to remain in the country unlawfully or to engage in Hajj without the necessary permissions.
As the Saudi government has implemented a fixed quota for Hajj attendance per country, the presence of unauthorized pilgrims has led to significant overcrowding, which became a critical issue in 2024. Tragically, over 1,200 pilgrims lost their lives due to extreme heat and congestion, a situation believed to have been worsened by unregistered attendees.
Temporary measure with no defined review period
Although Saudi authorities have characterized the suspension of multiple-entry visas as a temporary measure, they have not specified when this policy will be reassessed. Officials intend to evaluate the effects of the new regulations and will make future decisions based on their observations.
Guidelines for impacted travelers
Travelers from the affected countries are encouraged to apply for their single-entry visas well ahead of their intended travel dates. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stressed the necessity of strictly following the new visa regulations to prevent any penalties or travel disruptions.
These changes to Saudi Arabia’s visa policy will particularly impact travelers from 14 nations, especially those traveling for business or family reasons. While the government has suggested that the suspension of multiple-entry visas is temporary, travelers should plan their journeys accordingly and adhere to the new regulations. For ongoing updates, visitors are advised to check the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.