Saudi Arabia has suspended Umrah, business, and family visit visas for 14 countries, including Nigeria, ahead of the 2025 Hajj. The move aims to prevent unauthorized pilgrimages and enhance safety after last year’s overcrowding and fatalities. Nigerians are urged to use official channels for Hajj travel to ensure compliance and protection.
Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens from 14 countries, including Nigeria, India, Egypt, and Pakistan. The suspension comes as the Kingdom intensifies efforts to manage crowds during the 2025 Hajj season and prevent unregulated pilgrimages.
Saudi officials cited last year's alarming numbers—over 400,000 unauthorized pilgrims and 1,301 deaths, mostly from heat-related causes—as a major factor behind the decision. Many of the deceased reportedly traveled without official Hajj permits, leaving them vulnerable without access to critical services like medical aid and proper accommodations.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the measure aims to enhance safety, ensure lawful entry, and streamline travel logistics. Those found violating visa conditions or overstaying may face a five-year ban from reentering the Kingdom.
Umrah visa holders will be allowed into Saudi Arabia until April 13, after which the suspension will remain in effect until mid-June. Nigerian pilgrims are urged to process their travel through authorized Hajj operators to avoid risks and legal penalties.
The countries affected by the suspension include Nigeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, Pakistan, and Morocco.
