As the annual Hajj pilgrimage draws near, Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering significant changes to its visa policy, potentially imposing temporary restrictions on travellers from 14 countries.

The move aims to manage travel ahead of the Hajj season and address overcrowding issues from last year, when many entered on non-pilgrimage visas. Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension on ...

While oil revenues and Hajj-Umrah pilgrimages have long been its economic backbone, cinema is emerging as a new revenue source. This cultural and economic evolution is part of the Kingdom’s ...

The decision comes in light of recent security and health concerns during the Hajj pilgrimage. Listen to Story Saudi Arabia halts Umrah and Hajj visas for 14 countries Affected nations include India, ...

Hajj 2025: Hajj is the annual pilgrimage by Muslims to Kabba, also known as Masjid al-Haram, in Makkah or Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Kabba is Islam's most sacred site, and Hajj is considered one of the ...

Millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia each year for the holy pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah. A key part of this journey is entering a sacred state called Ihram. Many think Ihram only means ...

The government of Saudi Arabia has introduced travel restrictions to manage the large crowds expected during the Hajj pilgrimage. Authorities say the step is also aimed at stopping individuals from ...

The restriction comes amid efforts to minimise congestion ahead of and during the Hajj pilgrimage. According to reports, the ban will remain in effect until mid-June, coinciding with the end of the ...

The move follows logistical challenges and overcrowding witnessed during the last Hajj season, when large numbers of pilgrims reportedly entered the country using visas not intended for pilgrimage ...

This timeframe aligns with the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage season. The move, according to the reports, is aimed at managing overcrowding and enhancing safety protocols during Hajj. As per Saudi ...

The ban will last until mid-June, around the time when this year's Hajj pilgrimage concludes. The visa suspension includes Umrah visas, as well as business and family visit visas. Saudi ...