Saudi Arabia Revises Visa Policies for 14 Countries Including India: Key Changes Explained

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 In a major shift impacting millions of travelers, Saudi Arabia has revised its visa policies for 14 countries, including Pakistan, India, Egypt, and Indonesia. The new rules, which took effect on February 1, significantly restrict access to multiple-entry visas for business, tourism, and family visits.

Key Policy Changes

Previously, nationals from the affected countries were eligible for one-year multiple-entry visas, allowing them to travel to Saudi Arabia several times within a year. Under the new regulations, only single-entry visas valid for 30 days are now being issued for business, tourism, and family visits.

The countries affected by this change are:
Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

There are no changes to visa policies for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency purposes.

Why the Policy Has Changed

Saudi authorities cite multiple reasons behind this policy shift:

  • Preventing unauthorized Hajj participation: In previous years, some travelers entered the kingdom using multiple-entry visas and stayed illegally to perform Hajj, contributing to overcrowding and safety concerns.

  • Curbing illegal employment: A number of visitors used business or family visas to work unlawfully in the kingdom.

  • Enhancing visitor regulation and safety: The move aims to better manage the influx of travelers during sensitive periods like Hajj.

  • Supporting Saudi Vision 2030: The changes align with broader goals to improve tourism regulation and control immigration.

New Requirements for Hajj Pilgrims

Although Hajj visas remain unchanged, Saudi authorities have introduced stricter registration requirements:

  • Early registration is now mandatory.

  • Pilgrims must update their health information and list accompanying travelers in advance.

  • Priority will be given to first-time pilgrims.

Impact on Travelers and Industries

Frequent travelers—especially business professionals and families—will now face added hurdles, as a new visa must be secured for every trip. Travel agencies anticipate longer visa processing times, urging applicants to apply early to avoid delays.

The tourism and travel industry is also expected to feel the ripple effects:

  • Airlines may witness fluctuating demand for tickets due to reduced travel frequency.

  • Hotels might experience a drop in bookings as visitors reconsider or postpone their trips.

Compliance and Recommendations

Saudi authorities are urging travelers from the 14 countries to carefully plan their visits, adhere to the new visa guidelines, and avoid any misuse of travel documents. Eligible applicants may still request mahram (male guardian) exemptions for certain travel categories.

For many, this policy revision will mean adjusting travel plans, rethinking schedules, and navigating a more regulated entry process—but it also signals Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to safety, order, and its long-term vision for a streamlined tourism sector.

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