Visit Visa Holders Reminded of Hajj Restrictions

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has reiterated that individuals on visit visas are not allowed to perform Hajj, in accordance with official guidelines.

This announcement comes ahead of the Hajj 2025 season, aiming to prevent violations and protect visit visa holders from incurring penalties. A fine of SR10,000 will be issued to any individual—whether a citizen, resident, or visitor—who tries to enter Mecca without a valid Hajj permit.

Restricted areas include Mecca’s Holy City, the Central Haram Area, Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, the Haramain Train Station in Rusayfah, as well as security checkpoints and other Hajj-related zones.

A total of 179,000 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to participate in Hajj 2025.

The regulations apply to everyone regardless of nationality or residency status, and repeat offenses will result in doubled fines.

These strict measures are part of broader efforts to ensure the safety, order, and proper management of the pilgrimage. The Ministry also urged visit visa holders to carefully follow all entry rules and respect the terms of their visa to avoid penalties.

Saudi Arabia recently announced a temporary halt on the issuance of visas for citizens of 13 countries, including Bangladesh. This decision, aimed at strengthening border security measures, has raised concerns among Bangladeshi nationals who rely heavily on employment and religious tourism in the Kingdom. While the suspension is temporary, with Umrah visa holders granted entry until April 13, it has created uncertainty and anxiety within the Bangladeshi community. The move is expected to impact employment opportunities, particularly in the construction and domestic sectors, and may also disrupt religious pilgrimages during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

Saudi Crackdown: Over 18,000 Arrested in Residency and Border Security Sweep

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior revealed a significant enforcement operation, arresting 18,407 individuals in a week-long campaign targeting violations of residency, labor, and border security laws. The coordinated effort, spanning March 27 to April 2, resulted in the detention of thousands, with a notable focus on illegal border crossings. The majority of attempted illegal entries involved Ethiopian and Yemeni nationals, highlighting the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to control its borders and enforce its regulations. The operation underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to maintaining legal residency and labor standards, impacting both those residing within the country and those attempting unauthorized entry or exit

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