Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of short-term visas for citizens of 14 countries, including Pakistan, effective April 13, as part of measures to manage travel flows ahead of the Hajj season, according to Gulf News.
The ban applies to single- and multiple-entry business visit visas, e-tourist visas, and family visit visas. Affected countries include India, Egypt, Pakistan, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Nigeria, Algeria, Indonesia, Iraq, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Libya.
Travellers from these nations who already hold valid short-term visas will be allowed to enter the Kingdom until April 13, but must leave no later than April 29.
The decision follows overcrowding during last year’s Hajj, when many pilgrims entered using non-Hajj visas, straining Saudi Arabia’s logistical capacity.
Saudi authorities said the temporary moratorium is intended to improve coordination and ensure safety during the annual pilgrimage.
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