Saudi Arabia Halts Visas for Nigeria and 13 Other Nations Ahead of Hajj
Word has it that Saudi Arabia has put a temporary stop to issuing Umrah, business, and family visit visas to people from 14 countries — and yes, Nigeria is one of them.
Egypt, India, and several others are also on the list, all as part of the Kingdom’s preparations for this year’s Hajj season.
The full list of affected countries includes:
- Nigeria
- Egypt
- India
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Ethiopia
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
According to ARY News, Saudi officials said the decision is aimed at preventing unregistered individuals from attempting to join the pilgrimage. In recent times, there’s been a noticeable increase in people travelling without proper documentation — with some overstaying their visas — which has led to overcrowding and raised serious safety concerns.
Authorities have also voiced concerns about people entering the Kingdom on business or family visit visas, only to end up working illegally. This, they say, disrupts the labour market and violates visa regulations.
The Saudi foreign ministry stated that the move is designed to help streamline travel arrangements and enhance overall safety during the Hajj period.