Saudi Arabia Imposes Visa Ban On Nigeria And 13 Other Countries Ahead Of Hajj

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant change to its visa policy, restricting nationals from 14 countries, including Nigeria, from applying for new short-term visas. The restriction, which takes effect on 13 April 2025, impacts multiple visa categories, including business visas (both single and multi-entry), tourist e-visas, and family visit visas.

According to the official notice, Nigerian nationals currently holding valid Saudi visas may continue travelling to the Kingdom until 13 April 2025, but must exit no later than 29 April. After this deadline, affected individuals face potential penalties, including a possible 5-year ban from entering the country.

Saudi authorities have indicated that the move is “part of ongoing efforts to regulate travel ahead of the upcoming Hajj season,” according to a Gulf News report. The decision reportedly comes in response to logistical challenges and overcrowding experienced during the previous Hajj season, when many pilgrims allegedly entered the country using visas not specifically designated for pilgrimage purposes.

The new restrictions specifically state that even those with valid multi-entry business visas will not be permitted to travel to Saudi Arabia after 13 April, regardless of their visa’s expiration date.

Other countries affected by these new restrictions include Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, India, Tunisia, Yemen, Jordan, Iraq, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

From Business Day