Umrah pilgrim numbers surge by 22.5%

About 75% of the pilgrims traveled by air.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program announced that Umrah visa arrivals increased by 22.5% this year between the start of the season on Dhul Hijjah 15 and the end of Muharram.

More than 1.27 million international pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah during the period. According to the ministry, the increase was driven by leadership support, strong coordination among government agencies and continued improvements in digital and operational services under Saudi Vision 2030.

About 75% of the pilgrims traveled by air. Pakistan recorded the highest number of Umrah pilgrims, with 200,000 visitors, followed by Indonesia with 170,000 and Iraq with 130,000.

The ministry said it will continue improving the Umrah system by enhancing digital services and operational efficiency to provide pilgrims with a smoother, higher-quality experience from the planning stage through their departure.