In preparation for the upcoming Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended visa issuance for 13 countries, including Bangladesh. The ban affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas, according to diplomatic sources cited by Pakistani media outlet ARY News.

Saudi authorities have clarified that Umrah visa holders will still be allowed entry into the kingdom until April 13. The ban, expected to be lifted by mid-June, applies to Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over unauthorized attempts to perform Hajj. In previous years, individuals have entered the country using multiple-entry or visit visas and overstayed to join the Hajj pilgrimage illegally. This has contributed to overcrowding and increased security risks.

Another key factor behind the ban is the misuse of visas for illegal employment. Many visitors on business or family visas have been found working in violation of their visa terms, disrupting the local labor market.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the temporary ban aims to regulate entry during the Hajj season and ensure the safety and order of the pilgrimage. Authorities warned that violators could face serious consequences, including a five-year ban from re-entering the country.

As part of broader efforts to support pilgrims, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a multilingual digital guide, available in 16 languages including English, Urdu, Arabic, and Indonesian. The guide is accessible via the ministry’s official website in both PDF and audio formats.