More than 1.2 Million Umrah Pilgrims Have Arrived in the Kingdom Since the Start of This Year’s Umrah Season

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that more than 1.2 million Umrah pilgrims have entered the Kingdom to perform Umrah since the start of the season on 15 Dhu al-Hijjah until 30 Muharram, coming from 109 countries around the world, amid rising indicators of increasing demand and expanding services provided to the Guests of Allah. The ministry clarified that the past period witnessed a 30% increase in the number of pilgrims entering the Kingdom with Umrah visas compared to the same period last year, in addition to a 27% rise in the number of issued Umrah visas, and more than 4,200 contracts were signed between Umrah companies and external agents, enhancing the operational system’s readiness to receive the Guests of Allah. The ministry had announced the start of the Umrah season as of 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH, with visas issued through the “Nusuk” platform, signaling the beginning of a new phase of facilitation for the Guests of Allah and continuing the development journey under Saudi Vision 2030. Umrah permits have been issued officially since 15 Dhu al-Hijjah through the “Nusuk” app, the unified digital platform for governmental services for pilgrims and visitors, enabling easy booking and permit issuance, along with digital services supporting the pilgrim’s experience. The ministry confirmed that this growing demand for performing Umrah comes after the success of the Hajj season, which witnessed integrated performance, improved procedures, and developed technical infrastructure, noting that technical and operational preparations for the new season began early in coordination with the relevant authorities to ensure smooth procedures, with expanded awareness content and digital services in several languages, reflecting the Kingdom’s leadership in serving the Guests of the Two Holy Mosques and achieving the highest levels of comfort, safety, and satisfaction for the pilgrims.