Saudi Arabia Suspends Visit and Umrah Visas for 14 Countries – What It Means for Indian Travellers

Starting April 13, 2025, Saudi Arabia will temporarily suspend Umrah, family visit, and business visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India. This sudden development has caught many travellers by surprise — especially those planning their pilgrimage or family visits during the upcoming summer season.

But why has this move been made? And what can Indian travellers do if their plans are affected? Let’s break it down.

🔒 Why has Saudi Arabia suspended visas temporarily?

To manage the rush and ensure safety during the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has halted short-term visa issuance for the following countries:

• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Nigeria
• Jordan
• Algeria
• Sudan
• Ethiopia
• Tunisia
• Yemen
• Morocco

The ban will be in effect until mid-June 2025, based on evolving travel conditions.

🧳 Who is affected by this visa ban?

If you were planning to perform Umrah, visit family, attend business meetings, or travel for short-term tourism and haven’t yet received a visa, your application may be paused or rejected. Travellers already holding valid visas must exit the country by April 29.

🚫 Makkah Restrictions for Visa Holders

From May 23 to June 21, 2025, all visit visa holders will be barred from entering Makkah. Only those with valid Hajj permits will be allowed during this sacred period.

⚠️ Fines and Penalties for Violations

Violating these travel restrictions can lead to a fine of SAR 10,000 and a five-year ban on re-entry into Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities enforce these rules strictly.

🧭 What Should Indian Travellers Do Now?

• Stay updated via the Visa Banana blog and the Saudi Embassy
• Postpone new bookings until after Hajj season
• Use Visa Banana’s Saudi Visa page for updates and application guidance
• Only book through authorised travel operators

🛡️ Visa Banana Expert Advice

“We always advise clients to avoid last-minute bookings around Hajj season,” says a Visa Banana advisor. “Our team is helping travellers replan dates and save costs.”

To learn more, visit our homepage or go straight to our Saudi Arabia visa application page.

🧷 Final Word

While the travel pause may be frustrating, it’s necessary for crowd management and security during one of the world’s biggest pilgrimages. If you’re travelling to Saudi Arabia this year, patience and planning will be your best allies.