Islamabad, April 9: Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary visa ban for 14 countries, including Pakistan, ahead of Hajj 2025.
The restrictions, effective immediately, apply to Umrah, business, and family visit visas. Authorities confirm that situation will likely return to normal by mid-June.
While the Umrah visa holders can enter Saudi Arabia until April 13, other countries on the list include India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia and Yemen.
Visa Ban Details
Saudi Arabia formally notified Pakistan about the new regulations. The restrictions aim to streamline Hajj operations and curb overstays. Umrah visa holders must enter Saudi Arabia by April 13 and return to Pakistan by April 29. Violators risk a five-year re-entry ban. Pakistani officials urge compliance to avoid penalties.
Read more: PIA Begins Pre-Hajj Flight Operations for 2025
Hajj 2025 Flight Schedule Finalized
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs approved the Hajj flight schedule, starting April 29 and ending May 31. Over 179,210 pilgrims will travel under government and private schemes. Flights will depart from Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, and Multan.
Pilgrims can now track their flight details through the Pak Hajj mobile app, launched on April 6. The app provides real-time updates on departure times and airport procedures.
PIA’s Pre-Hajj Operations
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will operate 280 special flights between April 29 and June 1. These flights will transport over 56,000 pilgrims using Boeing 777 and Airbus 320 aircraft. The airline emphasizes comfort and efficiency for the journey.
Post-Hajj return flights begin on June 12 and conclude by July 10. PIA advises pilgrims to confirm return schedules via the airline’s portal.
Read more: Children Banned from Going on Hajj This Year
Reduced Hajj Package Costs
To ease financial burdens, the government slashed Hajj expenses. The 40-day package now costs Rs1,050,000, reduced by Rs25,000. The 25-day short package dropped by Rs50,000 to Rs1,100,000. Officials say the discounts aim to make the pilgrimage more accessible.
Mandatory Guidelines for Pilgrims
Authorities require pilgrims to get vaccinated at designated camps 10 days before departure. Training sessions for Hajj rituals will resume on April 8. Compliance with Saudi regulations remains critical to avoid penalties or visa cancellations.
Why Visa Ban Matters
The visa ban disrupts plans for thousands of Umrah pilgrims and families. However, Hajj remains prioritized, with streamlined flights and cost reductions. Over 179,000 Pakistanis are expected to perform Hajj this year, underscoring the need for efficient coordination.
