As Hajj 2025 nears, Saudi Arabia is reportedly planning temporary visa restrictions for 14 countries including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, to prevent unauthorised participation and manage overcrowding. The decision comes after tragic events during Hajj 2024, where over 1,200 pilgrims reportedly died due to extreme heat and congestion.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has clarified that this move is logistical, not political, and aims to ensure safety and smoother management during the pilgrimage. Umrah visas will not be issued beyond April 13, 2025, for affected countries, and no new visas will be granted until after Hajj ends in June 2025.

The primary concern is that pilgrims are entering on Umrah or visit visas, then staying illegally to perform Hajj, bypassing the official quota system. The measure is seen as essential to regulate the massive influx of pilgrims and avoid chaos like last year.