A few weeks before the peak season of the Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia revealed the temporary suspension of multiple-entry and short-term visas for nationals of 14 countries, including Tunisia.
The measure will take effect on April 13, 2025, and is anticipated to last until mid-June, according to diplomatic sources close to the matter.
List of Affected Countries
The countries impacted by this measure are:
Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, India, Tunisia, Nigeria, Iraq, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Yemen, Jordan, and Indonesia.
Reasons Given by Riyadh: Security, Organization, and Combating Abuse
Sources close to Saudi authorities explain this decision by several security and organizational reasons in anticipation of the Hajj 2025:
Strengthening Security Measures
The Kingdom intends to establish a strict framework to ensure the safety of the millions of pilgrims expected this year.
Preventing Illegal Stays
There have been frequent cases of unauthorized participation in Hajj in recent years, especially from visitors who entered with tourist or business visas and stayed on to perform the pilgrimage.
Reducing Logistical Overload
This suspension is part of an effort to control migration flows and avoid overcrowding or disorganization during the Hajj season, as was observed in previous editions.
Which Visas are Affected?
The suspension only affects:
Multiple-entry visas
Short-term visas (family visits, tourism, or business)
However, the following visas are not impacted:
Special visas for Hajj and Umrah
Diplomatic visas
Long-term residency visas
Travelers already holding valid visas will still be able to travel to Saudi Arabia until their documents expire.
A Direct Impact on Tunisian Travelers
This decision will affect many Tunisians who were planning to travel to Saudi Arabia in the coming weeks, whether for family visits, professional trips, or spiritual reasons. It comes at a time when the number of visa applications is increasing significantly as Hajj approaches.
Tunisian citizens affected are advised to contact consular services for further details on available alternatives or options for rescheduling.
