Saudi Arabia recently suspended the issue of e-visas for citizens ofUzbekistan and Tajikistanaffecting applications for tourist visas as well as pilgrimage visas Umrah. This decision, which runs from 23 April to 9 June 2025, is aimed at better managing the influx of pilgrims during the Hajj and to minimise the risk of abuse linked to the organisation of this major religious event. Nationals of these two countries must now apply for their visas through Saudi embassies, in a bid to combat fraudulent practices.
Recently, Saudi Arabia announced the suspension of e-visas for nationals ofUzbekistan and TajikistanThis decision was announced by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. This decision, announced by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, aims to control the flow of pilgrims, particularly in anticipation of the Hajj season, while combating abuse and fraud. This change in policy, which is primarily temporary, has considerable repercussions for these two populations, who recently had access to the possibility of obtaining electronic visas.
Background to the suspension
This measure concerns visas for tourism and travel associated with the Umrah pilgrimage, which were previously accessible via a simplified online procedure. The Saudi government has decided to suspend these e-visas from 23 April to 9 June 2025, which coincides with the Hajj, the biggest pilgrimage to Mecca.
Although there has been no official announcement, it is clear that this suspension is directly linked to the management of the flow of pilgrims. The aim is to avoid abuses linked to the organisation of the Hajj and to respect the pilgrim quotas allocated to each country. This decision is also part of a wider strategy to combat fraud, in the face of a worrying rise in cases of illegal travel agencies in Uzbekistan.
Alternatives available
Uzbek and Tajik nationals who hold a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, or who reside in the EU, UK or US, continue to have the option of obtaining a visa on arrival at Saudi Arabia entry points. This gives travellers a way into the country despite the ban on e-visas.
However, those who do not have one of these visas must turn to Saudi embassies or approved visa centres in their country. This alternative may make the process of obtaining a visa longer and more complex, but it still offers a route into Saudi territory.
Recent developments in visa policy
To better understand the impact of this suspension, it should be noted that nationals of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan had had access to e-visas since August 2023. This option made it possible to travel for tourism or the Umrah pilgrimage for up to 90 days. This recent policy of openness was seen as a major step forward for travellers from these countries.
The suspension of e-visas is not an unprecedented event. It is common practice for Saudi Arabia to impose restrictions on certain types of visa in the run-up to the Hajj, in an effort to control the massive influx of visitors. The aim of these efforts is to ensure that the situation is managed effectively, so that the number of pilgrims does not exceed the limits set by the government.
Impact on Uzbek and Tajik travellers
These new regulations will inevitably have an impact on the travel plans of hundreds, if not thousands, of Uzbek and Tajik citizens wishing to visit Saudi Arabia. Unless they have a valid visa from the above-mentioned countries, access to the kingdom becomes more complicated for those wishing to perform the Hajj or other tourist trips.
It is essential to note that the Uzbek authorities are planning to introduce a single portal for Hajj and Umrah by September 2025This should simplify the pilgrimage process and reduce bureaucracy and the risk of fraud. This initiative could offer greater accessibility and a smoother procedure for future pilgrims, despite the current suspension of e-visas.
To sum up, the discontinuation of e-visas for citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is a measure aimed at managing the flow of pilgrims during the Hajj period, while bearing in mind the need for alternatives for certain travellers. For further information such as validity dates for electronic visasInterested parties are invited to consult the official resources. This type of change in visa policy is often accompanied by changes to meet the security and efficiency requirements of the Hajj season.
Comparison of visa options for citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan
| Type of visa | Description |
|---|---|
| e-visa Suspended | Not available to Uzbek and Tajik citizens from 23 April to 9 June 2025. |
| Visa on arrival | Accessible to holders of a valid Schengen, UK or US visa. |
| Request by embassy | Must be done at Saudi embassies or approved visa centres. |
| Conditions for previous visas | You can obtain an e-visa for a maximum stay of 90 days, until you stop. |
| Impact on the Hajj | Meso to manage the flow of pilgrims and prevent fraud. |
| Future alternatives | Creation of a single portal to facilitate pilgrimage requests by September 2025. |
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