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Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for nationals from 14 countries, including India. The restrictions will remain in place until mid-June, coinciding with the conclusion of this year’s Haj pilgrimage. This is not the first time such measures have been taken. Each year, Saudi authorities pause certain visas in the months leading up to Haj to prevent overcrowding and maintain safety during the pilgrimage. Why the Suspension? According to officials, the move is aimed at preventing misuse of Umrah and visit visas by individuals who attempt to stay back and join Haj without proper authorization. Such practices disrupt the official registration process and create safety concerns for pilgrims. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has instructed officials to enforce strict visa controls to ensure the Haj is well-organized and secure. Also Read | Saudi Arabia launches HUMAIN Chat, first Arabic conversational AI app Under the new rules, Umrah visa applications will only be accepted until April 13, after which no new Umrah visas will be issued until the pilgrimage season ends. Countries Affected The suspension applies to travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and one other unspecified country. Focus on Safety During the 2024 Haj season, more than 1,000 pilgrims lost their lives due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Reports indicated that many of the victims were unauthorized visitors who had entered Saudi Arabia on non-Haj visas. Saudi Arabia aims to reduce risks and provide a safer pilgrimage experience for registered Haj participants. Authorities have also warned that anyone caught overstaying a visa or attempting to perform Haj without authorization could face a five-year entry ban.

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