Record Umrah Surge: Over 14.8 Million Pilgrims Perform Umrah in Rajab 2026

Makkah, Saudi Arabia, January 22, 2026:

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced that Umrah performances exceeded 14.8 million during the lunar month of Rajab 1447 AH (corresponding to January 2026).

Record Growth in Religious Tourism

This figure represents a significant surge compared with previous reporting periods, highlighting increased global demand for spiritual travel to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Out of the total, more than 2 million pilgrims came from outside Saudi Arabia, reflecting strong international participation.

Enhanced Pilgrim Services and Digital Facilitation

According to official sources, integrated digital services and logistics, part of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiatives, have streamlined pilgrim access, visa processing, and on-ground support. These improvements are aimed at ensuring a smoother, more efficient Umrah experience from trip planning through departure.

What This Means for Pakistani Pilgrims

For pilgrims from Pakistan and across South Asia, these statistics signal high interest and strong capacity for Umrah travel in the first quarter of 2026. Travel agencies are closely monitoring demand for Ramadan, Sha’ban, and post-Ramadan travel windows, making early preparation and package booking critical.

Why This Matters for 2026 Travel Planning

With peak pilgrimage months approaching and continued global participation rising, this data gives valuable insight into travel trends, operational planning for pilgrims, and competitive strategy for travel service providers. News like this helps prospective pilgrims make informed decisions about booking Umrah packages, visa arrangements, and itinerary planning in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What period does Rajab 1447 AH cover in 2026?
Rajab 1447 AH corresponds mainly to January 2026, with official statistics reflecting the total Umrah performances within that month.

Q2: How many international pilgrims were part of the 14.8 million total?
Official data shows that over 2 million pilgrims came from outside the Kingdom to perform Umrah during Rajab 2026.

Q3: Will the surge affect package availability or prices?
High participation trends typically increase package demand, especially for Ramadan 2026 travel, so early booking and planning are recommended.

Q4: What role does digital facilitation play?
Saudi Arabia has integrated digital platforms, logistics, and visa services that significantly improve pilgrim processing, scheduling, and overall travel experience.