Saudi authorities have dismissed a viral memo that claimed to notify travelers of new visa restrictions and an entry ban affecting several countries. The memo, which listed countries including Egypt, India, Pakistan, Morocco, Tunisia, Yemen, and Algeria, stated that travelers from these nations would face an entry ban starting April 13. Additional countries such as Nigeria, Jordan, Sudan, Iraq, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Bangladesh were also reportedly restricted from applying for short-term Saudi visas, including business, tourism, and family visit visas.
The memo further claimed that travelers from these countries would not be allowed entry into Saudi Arabia, even with valid visas, and warned that non-compliance could result in a five-year ban from the kingdom. However, the Saudi Tourism Centre clarified that the document was unofficial and not issued by the Saudi government.
In a statement to TheCable, the Saudi agency confirmed that the only official circulars currently in circulation pertain to guidelines for hajj travels. It further explained that tourists holding a tourist visa would not be allowed to perform Hajj or stay in Makkah during specific dates, from 29 April to 11 June 2025. Muslims wishing to attend the Hajj pilgrimage are required to apply for a dedicated hajj visa.
Source: Swifteradio.com
