Umrah visa arrivals rise 22.5% to 931,500 at start of new season

July 18, 2026 | 07:59 PM

July 18, 2026 | 07:59 PM

Saudi Gazette

Last Updated: July 18, 2026 | 07:59 PM

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MAKKAH — Saudi Arabia recorded a 22.5% increase in Umrah visa arrivals at the start of the 1448H Umrah season, with 931,500 pilgrims entering the Kingdom on Umrah visas between Dhul Hijjah 15 and the end of Muharram, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program announced.

The two entities also said more than 1.27 million pilgrims arrived from abroad during the same period, reflecting continued growth in the Kingdom's Umrah sector as part of the goals of Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program.

The ministry said the figures underscore the leadership's continued support for serving pilgrims and the ongoing integration among government agencies, alongside continuous improvements to digital and operational services aimed at enhancing the experience of Umrah performers and visitors.

According to the ministry, 75% of overseas Umrah pilgrims entered the Kingdom through airports, while the remaining 25% arrived via land and sea ports.

Pakistan ranked first among source countries with about 200,000 Umrah pilgrims, followed by Indonesia with 170,000 and Iraq with 130,000.

The ministry said it continues to enhance digital and operational services, improve access to services, and increase operational efficiency to provide a smoother and higher-quality Umrah journey from trip planning through departure.