In the wake of a rumor on a complete travel ban, Saudi officials have clarified there is no overall ban on Indian travelers, blaming the delayed issuance of visas on transitional Hajj-specific regulations. This has followed social media reports on claimed entry barriers for Indian tourists and business visitors.
Key Facts:
1. Hajj-Specific Restrictions: More stringent visa screenings are in place only for pilgrimage visitors until Hajj concludes (June 27).
2. Business as Usual: Traveler, business, and work visas continue to be available with regular processing.
3. Why the Misconception?: Agents were said to misread Hajj circulars as wider restrictions.
Saudi Arabia’s Position:
“India is a free market priority,” said a Saudi tourism representative, citing 1.2M+ Indian pilgrims in 2023. Delays are due to fraud prevention—agencies are cracking down on false Hajj tour operators taking advantage of pilgrims.
