Ahead of the forthcoming 2025 Hajj, Saudi Arabia has suspended citizens of 14 countries.
According to information, the Muslim dominated country temporarily prevented citizens from Nigeria, Egypt, India, and some other countries from entering into the country.
It was noted that the suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit into Saudi Arabia is aimed at preventing unregistered individuals from attempting to perform the pilgrimage.
The suspension raised concern about the numbers of people trooping into the country without official permits. In years ago, many visitors have overstayed their visas, which generated overcrowding and serious safety risks during the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia authorities expressed concern about the misuse of business or family visit visas by those who entered the country and worked illegally, which disrupted the labor market and violation of visa conditions.
The authorities maintained that anyone found to be staying in the country illegally may face a five-year entry ban.
The countries affected by the visa van are India, Palestinian, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, Morocco, Yemen, and Tunisia.
However, despite the visa ban, it was noted that any Umrah visa holders will be allowed to enter into the country until 13 April 2025. The suspension is expenct to remain active until mid-June when the pilgrimage concludes.