Saudi Arabia has announced new visa rules affecting travelers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Visitors from these countries can now only get single-entry visas valid for 30 days with no option for extension.
The policy affects tourists, business travelers, and family visitors but does not apply to Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.
Saudi authorities say the change is to prevent visa misuse, as some travelers used multiple-entry visas to stay illegally or attend Hajj without proper authorization. The government is taking this step to manage overcrowding after over 1,200 unauthorized pilgrims died in 2024 due to extreme heat and congestion.
Though officials describe the restriction as temporary, they have not set a date for review. Travelers are advised to apply early and follow the new rules to avoid travel issues.
