The decision aims to prevent unregistered pilgrims from entering the kingdom under alternative visa categories and attempting to perform Hajj without official authorization. Only pilgrims registered through Saudi Arabia’s approved Hajj channels are permitted to participate in the annual pilgrimage.
According to Saudi officials, foreign nationals have frequently entered the country on Umrah or visit visas, then overstayed illegally to perform Hajj, which contributed to overcrowding and safety issues during last year’s pilgrimage. The tragic events of 2024 saw over 1,000 fatalities, largely due to extreme heat and overcrowding caused by unregistered pilgrims.
To avoid a repeat of such incidents, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has instructed authorities to tighten visa regulations. As part of the revised rules, the last day to apply for an Umrah visa this year is April 13, 2025. No new Umrah visas will be issued until after Hajj ends.
The 14 affected countries include:
India
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Egypt
Indonesia
Iraq
Nigeria
Jordan
Algeria
Sudan
Ethiopia
Tunisia
Yemen
One additional country has been mentioned but has not been clearly identified in the reports.
Saudi authorities have also launched a digital Hajj and Umrah guide in 16 languages to support and educate pilgrims about safe and legal pilgrimage procedures.
The government has issued a strong warning: anyone found staying illegally during Hajj will face a five-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia. Officials are urging pilgrims to follow legal channels and avoid attempts to bypass the system.
