Saudi Arabia’s 2025 Umrah Regulations: Visa Ban, Deadlines & New Fines

Planning to perform Umrah in 2025, Saudi Arabia has imposed strict regulations to reduce crowding during the Hajj season.

If you are from India, Pakistan, Egypt, or one of 11 other countries, you should know these laws to avoid fines or deportation. Let us simplify them.

Final Date to Enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah Pilgrims

 Deadline for Entry: 15 Shawwal 1446 AH (13 April 2025)

• Umrah pilgrims must arrive in Saudi Arabia before April 13, 2025.
• After this date, new Umrah visas will not be issued until mid-June 2025.

 Last Date for Umrah Visa Entry Before Hajj Season

• If you have a valid visa, you can enter until April 13.
• There are no extensions. If you miss your appointment, you will have to postpone your flight.

Entry Rules for Umrah Visitors in 2025

• Proof of accommodation and a return ticket must be presented.
• E-visa holders must print a copy before traveling.

Visa Ban for 14 Countries: Who Is Affected?

List of 14 Banned Countries

Saudi Arabia has stopped issuing new visas to

• India
• Pakistan
• Egypt
• Bangladesh
• Indonesia
• Nigeria
• Yemen
• Sudan
• Algeria
• Iraq
• Tunisia
• Morocco
• Jordan
• Libya

https://twitter.com/TimesAlgebraIND/status/1908991303024525380

 Visa Categories Suspended (Umrah, Visit, Business, Tourist)

• Umrah visas, no new applications after April 13.
• Work and tourist visas are temporarily suspended.
• Family visit visas are not available during the embargo (ban) period.

 Multiple-Entry Visa Suspension (From Feb 1, 2025)

• You can only get a one-time visa if you are from these 14 countries.
• Old (previous) multiple-entry visas will not work after February 1, 2025.

 Key Deadlines: Exit & Entry for Umrah Pilgrims

Final Exit Date: 1 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH (29 April 2025)

• The deadline for departure is Dhul-Qi’dah 1, 1446 AH, corresponding to April 29, 2025.
• All pilgrims and visitor visa holders must leave Saudi Arabia by April 29, 2025.
• If you exceed the period (overstay), you will face a heavy fine.

Penalties for Overstaying Your Visa (SAR 100,000 Fine)

• The new fine is 100,000 Saudi riyals, up from 25,000 riyals.
• Deportation and an entry ban for anyone who violates.

Makkah Entry Restrictions During Hajj Season

Who Can Enter Makkah After 25 Shawwal 1446 AH (23 April 2025)?

As of April 23, only the following persons are allowed to enter Mecca:

• Holders of regular residence ( Valid Iqama holders ) and work in Mecca (Makkah).
• Work permit holders with proof.
• Hajj visa holders are not allowed to obtain a tourist or Umrah visa.

 Ban on Staying in Makkah with Visit/Umrah Visa (From April 29)

• If you hold an Umrah or visit visa, you cannot stay in Mecca after April 29.
• Hotels will check visas without authorization, without residency.

 Temporary Suspension of Umrah Permits

Umrah Suspended from 1 Dhul Qadah to 14 Dhul Hijjah

• Umrah permits will not be issued from April 29 until June 10, 2025.
• The NSK (Nusuk) platform will be closed during this period.

 Nusuk Platform Closure Dates for Umrah Bookings

• Booking deadline: April 28, 2025
• Reopening mid-June 2025 after the Hajj season

 Reasons Behind the 2025 Visa Suspension

 Overcrowding & Unauthorized Pilgrims in 2024

• Last year, more than 1,000 people died due to crowding.
• Many of them have not been officially registered.

 Tragic Hajj Incident Leading to 1000+ Deaths

• Heatstroke and stampedes caused deaths.
• Saudi Arabia tightens laws to prevent a recurrence of the accident.

 Security & Compliance During the Hajj Season

• Only registered pilgrims are allowed to approach the holy sites.
• Strict control of visas and permits.

When Will Visa Issuance Resume After Hajj?

 Expected Resumption Around Mid-June to July 16–17, 2025

• It is based on the sighting of the crescent of Dhu al-Hijjah in 1446.
• Umrah visas are likely to return after June 10.

Based on Moon Sighting After Hajj 2025

Follow the official announcements in Saudi Arabia to know the exact dates.

What to Do If You’re Affected by the Visa Ban

 Travelers Already in Saudi Arabia: Key Exit Steps

• Check the expiration date of your visa. You must leave before April 29.
• Book your tickets early; prices rise closer to the date.
• Avoiding fines of 100,000 riyals is not easy.

 Booking Tips for Umrah or Business After June 2025

• Wait for official updates before applying.
• Use authorized agents to avoid fraud.

Avoiding Fines & Legal Issues During the Ban

• Do not exceed the remaining stay before April 29.
• Always carry your documents; the police may ask for a visa.

People Also Ask – FAQs About Umrah & Visa Ban

What is the new policy for Umrah in Saudi Arabia?

Stricter entry laws Early deadlines and temporary bans for 14 countries.

 Why is there a Saudi visa ban for India, Pakistan & Egypt?

To reduce crowding and prevent irregular pilgrims.

What is the last date to perform Umrah in 2025?

April 28, 2025, Umrah permits stopped on April 29.

Can I enter Makkah with a tourist visa during Hajj?

• Not only holders of Hajj visas, residency or work permits are allowed after April 23.
• What is the fine for overstaying a Saudi visa?
• 100,000 Saudi riyals is about $26,600.
• No extensions must leave before April 29.

Will Saudi Arabia reopen visas after Hajj 2025?

Yes, it is expected to be in mid-June through July 2025.

Can I perform Umrah after Hajj season ends?

Yes, permits will return after June 10, 2025.

 What happens if I’m caught in Makkah without a permit?

Fine and deportation; don’t risk it

 Are children allowed on Umrah visas during the ban?

Only if they hold a family visa issued before April 13.

 Summary: Key Takeaways for Pilgrims and Travelers

• The entry deadline is April 13, 2025, for Umrah.
• Leave before April 29 to avoid a fine of 100,000 riyals.
• Visa ban for 14 countries until mid-June.
• Restrictions on entering Mecca after April 23 for residents and pilgrims only.
• Umrah suspension from April 29 until June 10, 2025.

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