Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended visas for 14 countries, including six African nations, to manage crowds and ensure a safe Hajj pilgrimage.

The affected countries are:
– Asian Countries:
– India
– Pakistan
– Bangladesh
– Indonesia
– Iraq
– Yemen
– African Countries:
– Egypt
– Nigeria
– Algeria
– Sudan
– Ethiopia
– Tunisia
– Other Countries:
– Jordan

The suspension applies to non-Hajj visa categories, such as Umrah visas, business visit visas, and family visit visas, effective April 13, 2025. This move aims to prevent overcrowding and unauthorised pilgrims during the Hajj season. Ghana is not among the affected countries.¹.

Key Details:

– Duration: The visa restriction will stay in place until mid-June 2025, when the Hajj pilgrimage concludes.
– Exceptions: Pilgrims with official Hajj permits are exempt from the suspension.
– Reasoning: The Saudi government aims to prevent people from using non-Hajj visas to perform Hajj without proper registration, ensuring a safer and more organised pilgrimage experience.
– Impact: Travellers from affected countries could still apply for visit or Umrah visas until April 13, 2025, but no new visas in these categories will be issued until after the Hajj season end

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