In a significant move during the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary visa ban on 14 countries, including Pakistan. The ban affects multiple visa categories, including Umrah, business, and family visit visas. The restrictions are set to remain in place until mid-June, according to diplomatic sources.
Ban Affects Umrah, Business, and Family Visas
The visa ban has raised concerns for thousands of travelers and pilgrims planning to visit the Kingdom for religious, business, or personal purposes. Sources indicate that this temporary suspension is part of routine measures taken by the Saudi government during the Hajj season to manage the influx of pilgrims and maintain crowd control during the holy period.
The affected countries include Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Deadline for Entry and Exit
According to diplomatic officials, Umrah visa holders from these countries can enter Saudi Arabia only until April 13. Those who are already in the Kingdom on Umrah visas have been instructed to leave by April 29. Any overstay beyond this date could result in serious consequences, including fines or bans.
In fact, sources have warned that overstaying the allowed visa period during this time could lead to a five-year entry ban for pilgrims or visitors. The Saudi government has clearly communicated these directives to the authorities of the affected countries, including Pakistan.
Official Communication with Pakistan
Diplomatic sources confirm that Saudi authorities have officially informed Pakistan of the decision. The Pakistani government has also begun informing travel agencies and the general public to ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s new visa rules during this period.
The move has disrupted the plans of many who were preparing for Umrah in the coming weeks, especially those who had already booked tickets and accommodation.
Seasonal Restriction or Something More?
While Saudi Arabia has often imposed similar temporary restrictions during the Hajj season in previous years, this year’s move has received more attention due to the broader list of affected countries and the scope of the visa categories being paused.
Saudi officials have emphasized that the ban is not political or permanent but a seasonal administrative measure. However, the strict enforcement warnings and the threat of a five-year ban have added a layer of seriousness to this year’s restrictions.
Travel Industry Faces Setback
The travel industry in Pakistan and other affected countries is already feeling the heat of this decision. Travel agents, especially those dealing in Umrah packages, report cancellations and refund requests after news of the visa ban spread.
Several travelers who were planning to travel for business or to visit family in Saudi Arabia are now left in uncertainty. Airlines and travel agencies have been asked to cooperate and assist travelers with rescheduling or refunding their bookings.
When Will the Ban Be Lifted?
As per diplomatic sources, the temporary visa ban is expected to be lifted by mid-June 2025, following the conclusion of the Hajj season. Those planning to travel for Umrah or other purposes are advised to wait until official confirmation is issued regarding the resumption of visa processing.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is expected to issue updates regarding the reopening of visa categories in the coming weeks.
What Affected Travelers Should Do
Pakistani citizens and travelers from other banned countries are advised to:
- Avoid planning new trips to Saudi Arabia until mid-June unless it is for Hajj under a valid Hajj visa.
- Check visa status and return plans immediately if already in Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa.
- Comply with exit deadlines, especially the April 29 return deadline for Umrah travelers.
- Consult with travel agencies or the Saudi embassy for any clarifications.
The decision, while inconvenient, is seen as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to manage the Hajj pilgrimage smoothly and ensure the safety and organization of millions of pilgrims expected to arrive this season.
