Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the issuance of visas to citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The ban on Umrah, business and family visit visas will remain in effect until mid-June, which coincides with the conclusion of the pilgrimage to Mecca.
This ban applies to 14 countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen and Morocco. Pakistan’s ARY has given this information quoting Saudi officials.
The move was reportedly taken to prevent individuals from trying to perform Hajj without proper registration. However, individuals holding Umrah visas can still enter Saudi Arabia until April 13. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has taken this decision to ban visas this year keeping in mind the deaths of thousands of people last year. Last year, more than 1,000 people died in a stampede during Haj.
The number of unauthorised Haj pilgrims was high among those who died. Hence, the reason behind this temporary visa ban this year is to stop unregistered Haj pilgrims.