Shocking Move: Saudi Arabia Halts Umrah Visas for 14 Nations Before Hajj 2025
Riyadh/New Delhi:
In a major development, Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary ban on Umrah visa issuance for pilgrims from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, and Indonesia — just ahead of the Hajj 2025 preparations.
According to official reports, this sudden visa restriction is a result of “technical issues in the online visa processing system” and ongoing upgrades to the Nusuk platform, Saudi’s new digital portal for Umrah and Hajj services.
🌍 Countries Affected by the Umrah Visa Ban:
India
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Iran
Iraq
Indonesia
Afghanistan
Syria
Lebanon
Yemen
Libya
Somalia
Chad
Eritrea
📆 Will Hajj 2025 Be Affected Too?
At the moment, this restriction applies only to Umrah visas, not Hajj visas. However, travel agents and pilgrims are concerned that delays in Umrah may affect Hajj slot allocations and travel timelines later this year.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has not confirmed how long this suspension will remain in place. Pilgrims and agents have been advised to wait for official updates before making bookings.
🕋 What is the Nusuk Platform?
The Nusuk platform is the Saudi government’s new centralized digital system to apply for Umrah and Hajj services online, including hotel bookings, travel permits, and e-visas.
The suspension seems linked to the ongoing transition to Nusuk, which has temporarily halted services for some countries.
📢 What You Should Do:
Do NOT book new Umrah packages from affected countries until further notice.
Check the official Nusuk.sa portal and Saudi embassy updates regularly.
If you’ve already applied or paid, contact your authorized Umrah agent for status.
🕌 The Bigger Picture:
With millions preparing for Hajj 2025, this visa ban could have a ripple effect on travel plans, especially for South Asian pilgrims. Experts believe this is a temporary technical disruption, not a political decision, and normalcy will return once the Nusuk upgrades are complete.
