The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has announced new visa rules affecting travelers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
According to the new schedule, visitors from these countries can now only get single-entry visas valid for 30 days with no option for extension.
The policy affects tourists, business travelers, and family visitors but does not apply to Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.
Saudi authorities say the change is to prevent visa misuse, as some travelers used multiple-entry visas to stay illegally or attend Hajj without proper authorization.
The government is taking this step to manage overcrowding after over 1,200 unauthorized pilgrims died in 2024 due to extreme heat and congestion.
Though officials describe the restriction as temporary, they have not set a date for review. Travelers are advised to apply early and follow the new rules to avoid travel issues.
The Saudi government enforces a strict Hajj attendance quota system for each country to manage the annual pilgrimage and prevent overcrowding.
Saudi authorities emphasised the importance of complying with the new guidelines to avoid penalties.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also advised travellers to stay updated on visa policies through official government channels and ensure they follow all entry requirements.
These new regulations are expected to significantly affect travel plans for thousands of individuals, especially business travelers and those with family in Saudi Arabia, who may need to adjust their travel schedules accordingly.
