Recent reports suggesting a ban on Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia are inaccurate, according to government sources. While there are temporary restrictions in place, these are standard practice during the Hajj season to manage the large influx of pilgrims and prevent overcrowding. These restrictions primarily affect short-term visas and are lifted once the Hajj pilgrimage concludes.
The Saudi government has not issued any official notification regarding a ban on Indian travelers. The temporary measures are specifically aimed at managing the flow of pilgrims during Hajj, ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors. These measures include restrictions on short-term visas to prevent overcrowding in holy cities.
Earlier in May 2025, Saudi Arabia temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India. This decision, which took effect in May 2025, is attributed to security and administrative concerns, particularly around the management of pilgrims and immigration compliance during the busy Hajj period, and is intended to prevent visa misuse and unauthorized participation in the Hajj pilgrimage. The suspension is expected to last until the end of June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of Hajj.
The temporary visa curbs are standard practice during the Hajj season. Government sources have clarified that these short-term restrictions are procedural and imposed annually to prevent overcrowding in holy cities. Once the pilgrimage concludes, normal travel operations resume as these limitations are lifted.
In April 2025, to curb unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages and control inbound travel, Saudi Arabia suspended the issue of short-term visas for 14 countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco. This temporary restriction was to avoid overcrowding during Hajj 2025. People have in the past traveled to Saudi Arabia on short-term visas and entered Mecca without official permission for the Hajj. Authorities said that many of those who died in the heat during the 2024 Hajj were unregistered and unable to access air-conditioned pilgrim amenities.
These seasonal restrictions were introduced in May 2025 to manage pilgrim traffic and ensure compliance with immigration protocols during Hajj. The suspension will remain until June 30, 2025, coinciding with the end of Hajj. With the conclusion of Hajj 2025, the temporary suspension on short-term visas for 14 countries including India is over too.
It is important for travelers to stay informed about visa regulations and travel advisories issued by the Saudi government. Checking with the Saudi embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information is advisable before making travel arrangements.
