Saudi Arabia has recently announced new travel restrictions affecting nationals from several countries. Effective immediately, individuals from the following countries are restricted from applying for new short-term Saudi visas, including:
- Business visit visas (single or multiple-entry)
- Tourist e-visas
- Family visit visas
List of Restricted Nationalities:
| Middle East & Africa | Asia |
|---|---|
| Egypt | India |
| Morocco | Tunisia |
| Algeria | Nigeria |
| Sudan | Iraq |
| Ethiopia | Bangladesh |
| Yemen | Pakistan |
| Jordan | Indonesia |
This means that citizens of these countries cannot obtain new short-term visas for travel to Saudi Arabia.
Travel Restrictions – Effective April 13, 2025
If you currently hold a valid Saudi visa (such as a business or tourist visa), you may continue to travel to the Kingdom until April 13, 2025. However, significant changes will take effect after this date:
- After April 13, 2025, individuals from the restricted nationalities listed above:
- Will not be permitted to enter Saudi Arabia, even with a valid visa.
- Must exit the Kingdom before April 13, 2025 to avoid penalties.
- Non-compliance may result in a 5-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia.
Important Notes:
- Multi-entry business visa holders will not be allowed to travel to Saudi Arabia after April 13, regardless of the visa’s expiry date.
- If you are a national of one of the restricted countries, do not attempt to travel to Saudi Arabia on or after April 13, 2025, even if your visa is still valid.
What Should Affected Travelers Do?
- Check Your Visa Status: If you currently hold a Saudi visa, verify its validity and plan your travel accordingly.
- Exit Before the Deadline: Ensure you leave Saudi Arabia before April 13, 2025, to avoid entry bans.
- Avoid New Applications: Nationals from restricted countries should not apply for new short-term visas until further notice.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s new visa restrictions mark a significant shift in travel policies for nationals of the affected countries. With the April 13, 2025, deadline fast approaching, individuals holding valid visas must ensure compliance to avoid entry bans and other penalties. Travelers from restricted nations should exit the Kingdom before the cutoff date and refrain from applying for new short-term visas until further notice. Those with multi-entry business visas must also note that their visas will no longer be valid for entry after the deadline, regardless of expiration dates.