In a major move aimed at streamlining crowd management ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has temporarily stopped issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas to citizens from 14 countries—including India. This decision is not politically motivated but stems from logistical and safety concerns, especially after the devastating loss of life during the 2024 Hajj.
What Prompted This Decision?
Saudi authorities are anticipating massive crowds during the upcoming Hajj season and have introduced strict measures to prevent a repeat of last year’s disaster, where over 1,200 pilgrims died, primarily due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Investigations revealed that many of the victims were unregistered pilgrims who had entered the country on Umrah or visit visas and overstayed to perform Hajj without official clearance.
This unauthorized participation not only bypasses the official pilgrim quota system—which ensures each country sends a limited, manageable number of pilgrims—but also strains resources such as medical care, accommodation, and transportation. These unregulated movements contributed significantly to the overcrowding that led to the tragedy.
Why Is India on the List?
India has been included in the suspension due to confirmed instances of visa misuse. Reports indicate that several Indian nationals traveled to Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and remained illegally to join the Hajj. This undermined the regulated quota system and, in part, contributed to the chaos witnessed last year.
Given India’s large Muslim population and the high demand for pilgrimage visas, Saudi Arabia is taking extra precautions to ensure the 2025 Hajj is managed within its logistical capacity.
Who Is Affected?
Citizens of the following 14 countries are affected: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Importantly, this pause does not affect those with valid diplomatic, residency, or Hajj-specific visas. Officially registered Hajj pilgrims from these countries can still proceed with their travel plans.
Until When Will the Suspension Last?
The last date to apply for an Umrah visa is April 13, 2025. No further Umrah, business, or family visit visas will be issued for affected countries until the end of the Hajj pilgrimage—likely around mid-June. This temporary measure is expected to be lifted once the pilgrimage concludes safely.
A Preventive Step to Avoid Past Tragedies
The Saudi government, under the directive of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, has intensified efforts to prevent unregulated Hajj participation. Authorities have also warned of strict penalties: any individual caught performing Hajj without official approval could face a five-year ban from entering the Kingdom.
With Hajj being one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings, the stakes for crowd control are incredibly high. Saudi Arabia’s move to tighten visa policies underscores its intent to safeguard lives and ensure a smooth, dignified pilgrimage for all officially registered worshippers.
“This is the first time that Saudi Arabia has taken such a significant decision right before the holy pilgrimage of Hajj, impacting lakhs of aspiring pilgrims,” said a senior official from the Hajj Committee of Maharashtra while speaking to a Marksmen Daily correspondent. “The timing of this suspension is particularly concerning, as preparations were already underway for many devotees. We are bringing this issue to the attention of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, and any further steps will be taken under their guidance and direction. The sudden pause in visa issuance will undoubtedly hurt the sentiments of many Indian Muslims who have been spiritually and emotionally preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. We understand their disappointment and are doing everything within our capacity to seek a resolution. Our committee is in constant touch with authorities to ensure that the concerns of the pilgrims are addressed as swiftly as possible.”
