Saudi Arabia Imposes Visa Restrictions on Nigerian Travelers, Affects $1.5 Billion in Annual Hajj Tourism Spending as Analysts Call for Reinvestment in Northern Nigeria
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Saudi Arabia has introduced new visa regulations that will impact travelers from Nigeria and 13 other countries, restricting them to single-entry visas valid for 30 days, with no option for extension. These changes apply to tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family members, while excluding applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.
The new policy stems from concerns about the misuse of multiple-entry visas, which some travelers used to overstay or participate in Hajj without proper authorization. The influx of unauthorized pilgrims has contributed to overcrowding, especially after the tragic events of 2024, when over 1,200 pilgrims died due to extreme heat and congestion—issues believed to have been worsened by unregistered attendees.
This shift in policy is particularly impactful for Nigeria, which is a major contributor to Saudi Arabia’s religious tourism sector. In 2023, Nigerian pilgrims spent an estimated $1.5 billion on Hajj-related expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and other services during their stay in Saudi Arabia. Nigeria consistently ranks as one of the top countries in terms of Hajj pilgrimage participation, with tens of thousands of Nigerians traveling to Saudi Arabia each year for the religious event.
However, as Saudi Arabia implements these visa restrictions, analysts are calling for a rechanneling of the substantial Hajj spending into long-term socio-economic development in northern Nigeria. With a significant portion of Nigeria’s Hajj expenditures originating from the northern regions, experts argue that this annual outflow of resources could be better invested in building lasting infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals, and roads, which could drive regional economic growth and development. There is growing sentiment that this could create more sustainable opportunities for local communities while preserving the region’s religious heritage.
The suspension of multiple-entry visas is expected to affect Nigerian travelers, especially those planning to renew their visas or those involved in business and personal travel. While Saudi officials have described this as a temporary measure, no timeline has been provided for when the policy will be reassessed.
Nigerian travelers are encouraged to apply for their single-entry visas well in advance to avoid delays. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged strict compliance with the new regulations and advised travelers to stay updated through official government sources to prevent penalties or travel disruptions.
