Saudi Arabia Pauses Block Work Visa Quotas for 14 Countries Until Hajj 2025

The Saudi Arabia pauses block work visa quotas for nationals from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Egypt, and Nigeria, until the end of June 2025. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has implemented this temporary suspension to facilitate smoother Hajj season operations (scheduled for June 4-9, 2025) and maintain effective crowd management.

Saudi Arabia Pauses Block Work Visa Quotas: What It Means

A block work visa quota is a pre-approved worker allocation system managed via the QIWA portal, allowing companies to hire foreign employees in bulk. The pause affects new applications, while existing ones remain on hold.

Key Details of the Suspension

• Countries Subject to the Visa Changes: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

• Reason: Overcrowding prevention during Hajj, following past incidents like the 2024 heat-related fatalities.

• Related Measures:

  • Umrah permit suspension (April 29–June 10, 2025).

  • Stricter Mecca entry rules (Hajj permits/residency required).

  • Shift to single-entry visitor visas for citizens of impacted countries.

Impact & Recommendations

• Work visa delays for industries reliant on foreign labor (construction, hospitality).

• Check travel eligibility via the Saudi Visa Office

• Track updates on the QIWA Platform

  For more details, visit our guide: Saudi Arabia Temporary Work Visa Pause

Conclusion

The Saudi Arabia pauses block work visa quotas as a short-term Hajj safety measure. Employers and applicants should verify entry rules and await post-June 2025 resumption.