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Saudi Arabia bans Visas for 14 Countries, including Nigeria, and several others from the Middle East. In a significant diplomatic move, Saudi Arabia has announced a ban on issuing visas to citizens from 14 countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iraq, Pakistan, India, among others.
This recent development has raised concerns and questions among travelers and expatriates in countries affected by this ban. Ghana Insider gives you a comprehensive look at the situation.
Background of Saudi Arabia Visa Ban
Per reports gathered by Ghana Insider, the ban does not affect pilgrims from Nigeria or other countries on the list who are journeying to Saudi Arabia purposely for Hajj and have acquired Hajj visas.
Pilgrims with valid Hajj permits or intending to secure one will be permitted to enter Mecca and Medine and take part in the pilgrimage as scheduled.
The ban mainly targets other visa categories to avoid unauthorised individuals from performing Hajj without appropriate registration and mitigate overcrowding.
The ban comes amid efforts to control overcrowding due to the Hajj pilgrimage.
Per multiple media information, the suspension will be in full force until mid-June, when the Hajj pilgrimage is set to climax. The restriction is a temporary ban on the issuing of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for natives of 14 countries, including Nigeria.
Reasons For Saudi Arabia visas Suspension
Purposes for the recent Saudi Arabia Visas ban include the prevention of individuals from attempting to perform Hajj without proper registration. In response, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has directed officials to enforce stricter visa regulations to ensure the Hajj pilgrimage is carried out smoothly and securely.
Saudi authorities have raised concerns about foreign nationals arriving in Saudi Arabia on Umrah or visit visas and overstaying their allowed period to partake in Hajj at the holy city of Mecca. These tighter regulations are part of ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the pilgrimage process and protect the safety of all attendees.
When will Saudi Arabia visa ban begin?
As part of a new initiative, individuals from foreign countries will be granted visit or Umrah visas until April 13. After this date, no additional visas will be issued to travelers from the 14 countries listed under the new regulation. This move aims to streamline the process and ensure better management of visa issuance ahead of the Hajj season.
List Of Countries Facing Saudi Arabia Visa Ban
Reports gathered have revealed a list of 13 countries that will face a visa ban from Saudi Arabia in preparation for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. Moreover, one more country remains unidentified. The 13 countries affected by the suspension include:
1. India
2. Pakistan
3. Bangladesh
4. Egypt
5. Indonesia
6. Iraq
7. Nigeria
8. Jordan
9. Algeria
10. Sudan
11. Ethiopia
12. Tunisia
13. Yemen
This decision follows the tragic events of the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage, which resulted in over 1,000 deaths, many of whom were unauthorized pilgrims. Overcrowding and extreme heat were identified as contributing factors to the tragedy. Saudi authorities believe that the visa ban will help control the flow of visitors, ensuring a safer, more organized Hajj experience moving forward.
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