RIYADH — Saudi Arabia announced a major visa policy overhaul, limiting travelers from 14 countries to single-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits starting February 1, 2025.
The visa policy will suspend 1-year multiple-entry visas for nationals of Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. Authorities cited the need to combat illegal Hajj pilgrimages as the driving force behind the change.
New Visa Rules at a Glance
- Exemptions: Hajj/Umrah visas, diplomatic/official visas, and residency permit holders.
- Single-entry visas only: 30-day validity with a maximum 30-day stay.
- Affected purposes: Tourism, business, and family visits.
- Suspended: 1-year multiple-entry visas (indefinite hold).
Historically, some visitors on long-term visas have overstayed to work illegally or perform Hajj outside official channels, which is restricted to government-approved pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia issues quotas for Hajj pilgrims annually, requiring specific permits for the pilgrimage. However, the Kingdom has long grappled with individuals entering on non-Hajj visas and traveling to Mecca during the sacred season. In 2024, over 1,200 pilgrims died during the Hajj, according to Saudi officials.
“Multiple-entry visas made it easier to bypass Hajj regulations,” said a ministry spokesperson. “This adjustment ensures visitors comply with their visa’s intended purpose.”
Authorities confirmed the rules are temporary but did not specify a review timeline. Travelers are advised to:
- Monitor official channels (visa.mofa.gov.sa) for updates.
- Apply early for single-entry visas.
- Ensure strict adherence to visa conditions.
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