Nation
FG denies Saudi Arabia has banned Nigerian travelers, pilgrims
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed rumours circulating online that Saudi Arabia has imposed an entry ban on Nigeria, along with 13 other countries, starting April 13, 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday, signed by Alkasim Abdulkadir, the media aide to the Foreign Minister, the ministry clarified that these claims were false. Saudi Arabian authorities also confirmed that no such entry ban exists.
The ministry’s statement noted that the Saudi Tourism Centre had refuted the viral memo suggesting that countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, India, and Pakistan, would face visa restrictions. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically denies these false claims and stresses that no such ban or entry restriction exists,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, the only official travel restrictions in place concern the Hajj pilgrimage. The Saudi Tourism Centre confirmed that the memo circulating online was inaccurate, and the only travel guidelines currently relevant are those related to Hajj.
The statement further explained that the only restriction applicable is for individuals holding tourist visas during the Hajj season. From April 29 to June 11, 2025, tourists with valid visas will be prohibited from entering Makkah or performing the Hajj. Only individuals holding a Hajj visa will be allowed to travel to the region during this time.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Nigerians to disregard the misleading document and to verify travel information through official sources. Travelers were advised to consult either the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or official Saudi government channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The statement emphasized: “For clarity, the only restriction applies to tourist visa holders during the Hajj season. Those holding tourist visas will not be allowed to perform Hajj or enter Makkah between April 29 and June 11, 2025. Only Hajj visa holders can travel during this period.”
The ministry also reminded the public to avoid spreading unverified information, which can create confusion and disrupt travel plans.
