Business Desk 
Apr 05, 2025
Saudi Arabia has revised its visa policy for 14 countries, including Pakistan, limiting the issuance of multiple-entry visas for business, tourism, and family visits during the Hajj season.
This change, effective from February 1, 2025, replaces the previous one-year multiple-entry visa with a single-entry visa valid for 30 days.
Countries affected by this change:
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
The new rules do not affect Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas. Saudi authorities explained that the policy aims to control visitor numbers and prevent unauthorised participation in Hajj and illegal employment.
The policy include the following key points:
- Only single-entry visas valid for 30 days will be issued for tourism, business, and family visits during the Hajj season.
- Pakistan and 13 other nations are affected by the change.
- Saudi Arabia is addressing overcrowding during Hajj, unauthorised Hajj participation, and illegal work by visitors.
Implications for travellers:
- Business travellers will need a new visa for each trip.
- Families will need to plan ahead and apply for visas for each visit.
- Travel agencies expect delays due to increased application volumes.
- Hajj pilgrims should register early and update health information for a smoother experience.
These changes are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to regulate visitor inflows and ensure the safety and smooth organisation of the Hajj season.
