In a significant step, saudi arabia has temporarily ceased granting specific visa categories to citizens of 14 nations, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India. This prohibition will last until mid-June, around the time of the conclusion of this year's Hajj pilgrimage.
 
The visa suspension impacts Business, family visits, and Umrah visas.  Authorities in saudi arabia have decided to stop anyone from trying to do the Hajj without the required paperwork.  Officials claim that a large number of foreigners have been entering the nation on visitation or Umrah visas and then lingering illegally to perform the Hajj without permission.

Crown prince Mohammad bin salman of saudi arabia has directed authorities to enforce stricter visa requirements in order to guarantee the pilgrimage is well-planned and secure.  Foreign nationals have until april 13 to apply for Umrah visas as part of this endeavor.  Visas for Umrah will not be issued after this date until the Hajj is over.
 
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and one other country not specifically mentioned in reports are among the 14 nations impacted by this prohibition. This action follows a devastating event in 2024 in which more than 1,000 people—many of whom were undocumented pilgrims—died while performing the Hajj.  The issue was exacerbated by overcrowding and intense heat.  Saudi authorities think that by prohibiting unregistered pilgrims from performing the Hajj, the risk to human life will be decreased.
 
The nation has also released a wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital Hajj and Umrah handbook in 16 languages to aid pilgrims.  This is a component of their broader endeavor to enhance security and facilitate the religious journey for individuals taking part. Those who remain in the country illegally during the Hajj may be prohibited from visiting saudi arabia for five years, officials have also warned.  They advise everyone who wishes to perform the Hajj to adhere to the regulations and register correctly.
 
 

 
 
For more interesting updates wa click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel

Find out more:

SIBY JEYYA

07/04/2025 08:14 AM