Saudi Arabia has imposed a ban on taking children as companions for the 2025 Hajj season. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that this decision is to ensure the safety of children amidst the large crowds. Priority will be given to first-time pilgrims. Hajj pilgrims must verify their information, register companions, and request changes to their mahrams through the Nusuk app or online. The Saudi authorities have emphasized preparation before the sale of Hajj packages and have initiated the process through the Nusuk platform.

According to the Times of India, Saudi Arabia has suspended multiple-entry visas for 14 countries, including Bangladesh, effective from February 1. The affected countries are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. Citizens from these countries will only be eligible for a single-entry visa with a 30-day validity, except for workers, Hajj, and Umrah pilgrims. The decision comes in response to complaints that re-entry visa holders have violated rules, engaged in Hajj without proper authorization, failed to return after their visa expiration, and involved themselves in various criminal activities.

Prince Turki Al-Faisal, a former Saudi ambassador to the United States, has strongly condemned Donald Trump’s recent comments on Gaza, warning that his proposed plans for control of the region amount to ethnic cleansing. He stated that forcibly removing Palestinians from Gaza would lead to bloodshed and conflict. He urged Arab and Muslim nations, along with other global powers and Europe, to raise the issue at the United Nations to demonstrate global opposition to such an extermination plan. He further accused Trump of fully endorsing Israel’s stance, stating that the former U.S. president has aligned his position with that of recently resigned Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Saudi Arabia has strongly opposed Donald Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians and allow the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that any attempt to expel Palestinians will not be accepted, and the country’s position on the Palestinian issue is non-negotiable. Saudi Arabia also stated that it will not normalize relations with Israel until an independent Palestinian state is established, reiterating its firm stance on the matter.