Riyadh (ANN)- Saudi Arabia has imposed temporary visa bans on citizens from 14 countries, including Iran, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Somalia, Congo, Libya, and Sudan, as part of heightened security and crowd management measures.
Accodding to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced These travel restrictions aim to ensure the safety and order of one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. Visitors from these countries will be unable to obtain Umrah or visit visas for the pilgrimage season, and those who overstay their visas risk severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. These actions reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining a secure and organized environment for Hajj pilgrims.
According to reports Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to visitors regarding severe penalties for overstaying visas during Hajj 2025. With potential fines, imprisonment, and deportation on the line, here’s everything you need to know about the latest travel regulations and deadlines.
Strict Penalties for Overstaying Visas During Hajj 2025
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that all Umrah visa holders must leave Mecca by April 29 to avoid serious penalties. Visa violations will result in the following consequences:
- Deportation after imprisonment
- Fines up to SAR 50,000 (approx. USD 13,000)
- Imprisonment for up to 6 months
These penalties apply to both Umrah and visit visa holders who fail to depart on time. The Ministry also clarified that visit visa holders are prohibited from participating in Hajj and must comply with their visa terms.
Mandatory Exit Deadlines & Entry Restrictions
To prevent legal issues, all Umrah visa holders must depart from Saudi Arabia by April 29, 2025. Furthermore, starting April 23, entry into Mecca will be restricted to:
- Residents of Mecca (with proof of residence)
- Employees assigned to work at the holy sites
- Holders of Hajj permits
These measures are being implemented to reduce congestion and ensure the safety of the registered Hajj participants.
Hajj and Eid al-Adha 2025 Dates
The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage is set to begin on the evening of June 6 and conclude on June 11. Eid al-Adha, which marks the end of the pilgrimage, will start on June 8, depending on moon sighting. Authorities are urging travelers to plan well in advance, secure valid permits, and follow local regulations.
Travel Agencies Under Scrutiny
Hajj and Umrah service providers are under close scrutiny. Any company failing to report pilgrims who overstay or violate visa terms could face fines of up to SAR 100,000 (approx. USD 26,659), with the fine increasing based on the number of violations unreported.
Visa Ban on 14 Countries
As part of security measures and crowd management, Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary ban on Umrah and visit visas for citizens of 14 countries ahead of Hajj 2025. The affected countries are:
- Iran,Nigeria, Yemen, Ethiopi, Kenya, Somalia, Chad, Niger, Mali, Congo, Central African Republic, Libya, Sudan, Pakistan.
This ban applies exclusively to Umrah visa applicants and does not affect those with Hajj permits or other visa categories. The ban started on April 13, 2025, and will remain in effect until after the Hajj season.
Hajj: A Major Religious Pilgrimage
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, mandatory for Muslims who meet the physical and financial requirements. This year, it is expected to begin on the evening of June 6 and end on June 11. Eid al-Adha, marking the conclusion of Hajj, will commence on June 8, pending moon sighting.
Key Takeaways for Travelers in 2025
- Verify visa eligibility, particularly if you’re from one of the 14 restricted countries.
- Avoid overstaying your visa under any circumstances.
- Do not attempt to perform Hajj on a visit or Umrah visa.
- Depart Mecca by April 29 if you hold an Umrah visa.
- Comply with entry restrictions beginning April 23.
Saudi Arabia has imposed temporary visa bans on citizens from 14 countries, including Iran, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Somalia, Congo, Libya, and Sudan, ahead of Hajj 2025 to manage security and crowd control. Visitors from these countries face severe penalties for visa overstays, including fines and deportation.
As Hajj 2025 draws near, Saudi Arabia is intensifying enforcement of visa regulations to ensure a safe and organized pilgrimage. Visitors are urged to abide by visa rules, avoid overstaying, and stay informed about restrictions and updates. Failure to comply could result in hefty fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Always check for official travel updates before planning your journey.
Written by Arraale M. Jama, a freelance journalist and human rights activist.
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