Saudi Arabia Records 22.5% Increase in Umrah Arrivals at the Start of the New Season

Saudi Arabia has announced a remarkable 22.5% increase in Umrah arrivals during the opening weeks of the 1448H Umrah season, highlighting the Kingdom's continued efforts to improve the pilgrimage experience for Muslims around the world. According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program, more than 1.27 million international pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia between 15 Dhul Hijjah and the end of Muharram, marking one of the strongest starts to an Umrah season in recent years.

Officials attributed the impressive growth to enhanced digital services, smoother visa processing, stronger coordination among government agencies, and ongoing investments under Saudi Vision 2030. The Kingdom continues to modernize its pilgrimage ecosystem by simplifying travel procedures, expanding airport operations, and improving accommodation and transport services for visitors. These improvements are helping pilgrims enjoy a faster, safer, and more convenient journey from arrival to departure.

The latest statistics also show that 75% of international Umrah pilgrims arrived by air, demonstrating the importance of Saudi Arabia's major international airports in handling growing passenger volumes. Pakistan contributed the largest number of Umrah pilgrims, with approximately 200,000 visitors, followed by Indonesia with 170,000 and Iraq with 130,000. These figures reflect the continued popularity of Umrah among Muslims worldwide and reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as the leading destination for religious tourism. Authorities have confirmed that they will continue investing in digital innovation and operational efficiency to accommodate even larger numbers of pilgrims in the coming months.

Key Highlights

• Umrah arrivals increased by 22.5% compared with the previous season.
• More than 1.27 million international pilgrims visited Saudi Arabia.
• Around 931,500 pilgrims entered on Umrah visas during the reported period.
• 75% of pilgrims arrived by air, while the remainder used land and sea ports.
• Pakistan recorded the highest number of Umrah pilgrims, followed by Indonesia and Iraq.
• Growth is linked to Saudi Vision 2030 and improved digital pilgrimage services.
• Authorities plan to continue enhancing the Umrah experience through technology and infrastructure.
• Strong start to the 1448H Umrah season.
• Improved digital services and travel facilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much did Umrah arrivals increase this season?

Answer: Saudi Arabia recorded a 22.5% increase in Umrah arrivals compared to the same period last year.

Q. How many international pilgrims visited Saudi Arabia?

Answer: More than 1.27 million international pilgrims arrived during the opening weeks of the new Umrah season.

Q. Which country sent the highest number of Umrah pilgrims?

Answer: Pakistan recorded the highest number of Umrah pilgrims, with approximately 200,000 visitors.

Q. What percentage of pilgrims arrived by air?

Answer: Around 75% of international pilgrims entered Saudi Arabia through airports.

Q. What is driving the increase in Umrah arrivals?

Answer: Improved digital services, streamlined visa processing, enhanced infrastructure, and Saudi Vision 2030 initiatives have contributed to the growth.

Q. Will Saudi Arabia continue improving Umrah services?

Answer: Yes, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed ongoing investments in digital accessibility and operational efficiency for future pilgrims.