Hajj 2025: Visa Ban for India, 13 Nations Explained

In a major step toward ensuring a safer and more organized pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has introduced a temporary visa restriction for citizens from 14 countries, including India, ahead of Hajj 2025.

The move, which affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas until mid-June, is designed to curb unauthorized Hajj participation and prevent overcrowding—a growing concern following the tragic loss of over 1,200 lives during Hajj 2024 due to heat and crowd-related issues.

Authorities emphasize that the decision is logistical, not political, and will protect pilgrims by ensuring only officially registered participants are part of the sacred journey.

Hajj-specific visas, diplomatic visas, and residency permits remain unaffected, allowing the pilgrimage to continue smoothly within regulated channels.

This proactive step aligns with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernize pilgrimage management and prioritize the health and safety of millions who visit the holy cities each year.

What this means for pilgrims:

• Greater safety and better crowd control
• Streamlined Hajj experience for registered participants
• Reinforced respect for Saudi Arabia’s pilgrimage quota system

As the Kingdom continues to enhance its religious tourism infrastructure, Hajj 2025 is expected to be one of the most secure and well-organized pilgrimages in recent years.