As of February 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia has put into effect a revised visa policy for 14 countries, including India. Under the new rule, travelers or Hajj pilgrims from these countries would only be allowed access to single-entry tourist, business, or family visit visas, adding to the previous indefinite suspension of one-year multiple-entry visas.
Among the countries hit by this policy change are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. Under the new regime, travelers would only be issued single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days and a maximum stay of 30 days. Importantly, note that this policy change will not apply to the Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residence visas, which will all remain unchanged.
Saudi officials revealed that the move came in response to the misuse of long-term multiple-entry visas. Some travelers traveling with this type of permit had entered the Kingdom and stayed beyond their allowed days, or entered the Kingdom for unauthorized use of their visas for Hajj pilgrimages. This has worsened the overcrowding, particularly during the Hajj season.
Hajj overcrowding has been a source of concern globally in the last few years. In 2024 itself, reports came out that around 1,200 devotees have died due to extreme climatic and congestion conditions. Saudi Arabia law enforcement related the recent incident to the presence of unauthorized pilgrims who caused the tragic incident of death. Thus the government is working to ensure that only recognized pilgrims can attend Hajj.
Polio Vaccine for Pakistani Pilgrims
Also, new health regulations have been introduced for passengers coming to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan. The Kingdom thus mandates Pakistani travelers from their country to get polio vaccination and show a stamped certificate of vaccination. This requirement is for Umrah pilgrims, tourists, and even business travelers who wish to go for a business visit.
Starting February 10, 2025, these travelers will have to receive an Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) within the last 12 months or an Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) within six months before landing. Airlines, including Airblue, have been reminding that passengers should confirm they are vaccinated to avoid denial of entry.
Saudi Arabia has now totally waived meningitis vaccination requirements for Umrah travelers which is a good news for many pilgrims. Visa and health conditions will change and create much trouble for millions of Pakistani pilgrims and other travelers who are looking forward to coming to Saudi Arabia soon.
Children Ban
Saudi Arabia has stated that children under 12 will not be permitted to go this year for Hajj, citing safety concerns because of severe overcrowding. The decision aims to insulate young pilgrims from any risk during the course of the annual pilgrimage.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the decision aims to protect children from harm that could come in a crowded situation, where anything could happen. The ministry has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and organized pilgrimage experience.
Moreover, it has also been announced that priority will be given to first-time pilgrims performing Hajj this year, so that more people have the opportunity to perform one of the greatest religious duties.
