With Hajj approaching, Saudi Arabia has put a temporary hold on certain visa types for residents of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt, effective until mid-June.
This suspension affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas. The decision aims to prevent unauthorized attendance at the Hajj pilgrimage, as there have been instances in the past where individuals overstayed their visas to participate. Overcrowding and adverse conditions led to tragic incidents, including a reported 1,200 pilgrim fatalities in 2024. The Saudi government has clarified that this measure is logistical and not politically motivated. Importantly, diplomatic and specific Hajj visas remain unaffected.