Saudi Arabia Suspends Electronic Visas for Citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan During Hajj Season

In an important announcement, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism confirmed the temporary suspension of electronic visa applications for citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan for the duration of the Hajj season. This decision, which affects citizens of over ten countries, is part of a broader effort to regulate Hajj participation and prevent illegal pilgrimages conducted under the guise of tourism or Umrah visas.

Temporary Suspension of Visa Applications:

According to the Ministry of Tourism, from April 23 to June 9, 2025, citizens from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan will not be able to apply for electronic visas through Saudi Arabia’s online portal. The suspension aims to prevent individuals from using tourism or Umrah visas to unlawfully participate in Hajj, bypassing the necessary regulations.

While the official reasons for the suspension have not been fully explained, sources suggest that the move is a response to increasing numbers of travelers arriving in Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas and remaining for Hajj without the proper permits.

Alternative Visa Routes for Affected Citizens:

Though the online application service is temporarily suspended, citizens of both Uzbekistan and Tajikistan can still apply for visas through their respective embassies or authorized visa centers in their countries. Additionally, travelers holding valid Schengen visas, UK visas, or US visas, as well as residents of the EU, UK, or the US, are eligible to obtain their Saudi visas directly upon arrival at the Kingdom’s entry points.

Expansion of Restrictions to Other Countries:

This recent decision follows similar actions taken by Saudi Arabia earlier in the year. In mid-April, the Kingdom also halted electronic visa applications for nationals of 14 other countries, including India, Egypt, Pakistan, Yemen, and others. The suspension is part of a broader effort to manage the influx of travelers and ensure that only those with legitimate Hajj permits are allowed entry.

Crackdown on Illegal Hajj Pilgrims:

Saudi Arabia is also stepping up enforcement with substantial fines for individuals caught performing Hajj without the required authorization. This includes penalties for both the pilgrims themselves and the agencies facilitating such unauthorized pilgrimages. These measures are designed to uphold the sanctity and security of the Hajj pilgrimage and ensure that only eligible individuals participate.

Hajj Quota for Uzbek Nationals in 2025:

Despite the suspension of electronic visas, Uzbekistan has been allocated a Hajj quota of 15,000 pilgrims for the 2025 season. The organization of the Hajj for citizens of Uzbekistan is managed exclusively through the country’s Religious Affairs Committee and the Muslim Association.

Overview of Saudi Arabia’s Electronic Visa System:

Saudi Arabia’s electronic visa system, introduced in August 2023, allows citizens from 57 countries, including Uzbekistan, to apply for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 90 days. While convenient for travel and tourism, this visa does not grant permission to perform Hajj, work, or reside in Saudi Arabia. The suspension affects the tourism and general travel sector, emphasizing the government’s commitment to regulating the Hajj pilgrimage.

Conclusion:

The suspension of electronic visas for citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is a part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to regulate the Hajj process, ensuring that only eligible pilgrims can perform the sacred rites. The Kingdom is taking necessary steps to prevent misuse of visas intended for tourism or Umrah, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Hajj season. The suspension is temporary, and other routes for visa applications remain available for those wishing to travel during this period.