RIYADH: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Hajj visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India, ahead of the annual pilgrimage season.
The move comes amid concerns over visa misuse and violations of pilgrimage regulations by individuals from these countries.Along with India, the list of countries affected includes Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
According to reports, the last date for issuing Umrah visas for Muslims from these countries is April 13. No new visas will be granted until the end of the Hajj, which begins in June.
The Saudi government had earlier suspended the issuance of one-year multiple-entry visas for these nations and restricted access to single-entry visas valid for 30 days.
The decision follows repeated instances of pilgrims from these countries entering Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and overstaying to perform Hajj, bypassing official channels and ignoring country-specific quotas.
The Saudi authorities have cited such violations as contributing to overcrowding and logistical challenges during previous pilgrimages.The 2024 Hajj season witnessed extreme heat conditions and overcrowding, resulting in the deaths of over 1,300 pilgrims.
Saudi officials attributed part of the crisis to unregistered pilgrims, many of whom allegedly came from the restricted list of countries without adhering to proper registration procedures.Authorities say unauthorised entries have strained accommodation, transport, and health facilities during Hajj.
In response, Saudi Arabia has warned of strict penalties, including a five-year entry ban for those found violating Hajj-related rules.
Separately, Saudi Arabia has also raised concerns over the influx of beggars, particularly from Pakistan. In September 2024, Saudi officials issued a warning to Pakistan regarding individuals entering the Kingdom under Umrah visas with the intent to beg. The warning stated such activity could damage bilateral relations if not addressed.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has since announced a new “Umrah Act” to regulate travel agencies and prevent misuse of the pilgrimage system. The country’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been tasked with cracking down on networks facilitating such illegal entries.
The Saudi government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a regulated and safe Hajj experience and has called on countries to uphold the guidelines set by the Ministry of Hajj.(With agency inputs)
