Saudi Arabia has announced a major shift in its visa policy, affecting travelers from India and 13 other countries. Effective February 1, 2025, multiple-entry visas will no longer be available. Instead, only single-entry visas valid for 30 days will be issued.
This move aims to regulate unauthorized Hajj pilgrims and tackle overcrowding issues that have become a serious concern for the Saudi government. If you’re planning to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or family purposes, here’s everything you need to know about these changes.
New Visa Rules: What Has Changed?
For years, Indian travelers could apply for a one-year multiple-entry visa for various purposes, including tourism, business, and family visits. However, that option is now suspended.
Here’s what the new visa policy means:
- Only Single-Entry Visas Allowed – Visitors from India and 13 other countries will now need to apply for a new visa each time they travel.
- 30-Day Validity – The new visas will only be valid for 30 days per visit.
- No Re-Entry Without a Fresh Visa – Multiple visits within the same year will require separate applications.
- Hajj & Umrah Exemptions – These visa restrictions do not apply to Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic visas, or work permits.
This means anyone traveling for tourism, business, or family visits must carefully plan their trips to avoid last-minute hassles.
Which Countries Are Affected?
Along with India, 13 other nations are also impacted by this visa suspension. The list includes:
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Egypt
- Nigeria
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Algeria
- Ethiopia
- Morocco
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Travelers from these countries will no longer be able to obtain long-term multiple-entry visas and must abide by the new single-entry rule.
Why Did Saudi Arabia Change Its Visa Policy?
This decision is primarily to control unauthorized Hajj pilgrims. Every year, thousands of people misuse multiple-entry visas to enter Saudi Arabia for the Hajj without proper permits.
Key Concern: Overcrowding & Safety
- In 2024, over 1,200 unauthorized pilgrims lost their lives due to extreme heat and overcrowding.
- Unauthorized entries put pressure on Saudi Arabia’s resources during the Hajj season.
- The government aims to ensure only authorized pilgrims participate under official quotas assigned to each country.
This change is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to streamline visitor entry and improve crowd control during major events like Hajj.
How Will This Impact Travelers?
If you’re planning a trip to Saudi Arabia in 2025, these new rules will affect how you plan your visit.
- Frequent travelers will face added costs and paperwork, as they must apply for a visa each time they visit.
- Business professionals will need to plan trips carefully, as they can no longer rely on long-term multiple-entry visas.
- Family visits will require additional visa applications, making it essential to time visits wisely.
Travelers should start planning well in advance to avoid disruptions due to visa limitations.
Saudi Arabia Visa: Exceptions to the Rule
Not all travelers will be affected. The following categories are exempt from the new visa restrictions:
- Hajj & Umrah Pilgrims – Those applying under official quotas.
- Diplomatic & Official Visits – Government officials and diplomats.
- Work Permit Holders – Those employed in Saudi Arabia with valid residency permits.
If you’re visiting for religious or official purposes, you can still apply through the usual channels.
Is This a Temporary Ban?
There is no official confirmation on whether multiple-entry visas will return in the future. While some sources suggest the suspension is temporary, the Saudi government has not set a timeline for lifting the restriction.
Until then, travelers should adhere to the new guidelines and prepare for single-entry applications when planning their trips.
What Travelers Should Do Next
- Plan visits carefully to avoid last-minute visa issues.
- Apply for a fresh visa for every visit to Saudi Arabia.
- Follow Saudi regulations strictly to avoid fines or travel bans.
- Use official channels for Hajj & Umrah to prevent unauthorized entry.
With these changes in place, it’s essential to stay updated with the latest visa rules before planning any trips.
Saudi Arabia’s suspension of multiple-entry visas is a significant shift that will impact thousands of travelers from India and other affected nations. While the move aims to control unauthorized pilgrimages, it also adds new challenges for tourists, business visitors, and families.
To ensure smooth travel, plan, follow visa regulations, and apply well in advance for your single-entry visa.
Read more:
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- New Visa Options for GCC Residents to Perform Umrah Announced
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