Ethiopian travelers possessing multiple-entry visas have faced entry ban to Saudi Arabia, APA can report on Saturday.
The ban came after the kingdom announced major changes to its visa policy, limiting travelers from 14 countries, including Ethiopia, to single-entry visas.
The Saudi government recently cited visa misuse, particularly by those overstaying to work or participate in the Hajj without authorisation, as the primary reason for this decision.
Ethiopian travelers to the Kingdom told APA that Ethiopian visitors to Saudi Arabia must only apply for single-entry visas, valid for 30 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days.
Saudi Arabia said its decision aims to curb unauthorised Hajj pilgrims entering the country on long-term visit visas.
Ethiopia is among the nations affected by the new policy, which indefinitely suspended one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits.
Ethiopian travelers, like those from the other impacted countries, will now only be eligible for single-entry visas.
Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unchanged and are not affected by the new policy, it is learned.
MG/as/APA