Saudi toughens visa rules as Hajj nears
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a warning to Hajj and Umrah service providers, imposing strict penalties for failing to report pilgrims who overstay their permitted duration in the Kingdom.
Companies and establishments serving these pilgrims must promptly notify authorities if any individual exceeds their authorized stay.
Financial penalties can reach up to SR100,000 or RO10,000 (approximately $26,600) and may be increased based on the number of violators reported.
This warning has been issued in light of preparations for the upcoming Hajj season, with authorities tightening oversight measures to manage crowd control and ensure order during these religious events.
Saudi Arabia has announced a new ban on multi-entry travel visas, directly impacting travelers from India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Jordan, and six other nations as the Hajj season approaches.
Effective February 1, 2025, visitors from these 14 countries will only be eligible for single-entry visas, marking a significant shift in Saudi Arabia's immigration policy.
The move aims to tighten visa regulations ahead of Hajj, preventing unauthorized pilgrimage travel and addressing concerns over visa misuse. This change affects those traveling for tourism, business, or family visits, requiring them to apply for a new visa each time they enter the country.
The timing of this policy shift is critical as the Hajj season approaches, and Saudi authorities emphasize that the move aims to prevent unauthorized pilgrimage travel and curb visa misuse.
The government has cited concerns that many visitors were using long-term visas to overstay or perform Hajj without proper authorization, leading to safety risks and overcrowding.
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