More than 11 million pilgrims performed Umrah in Saudi Arabia during the final quarter of 2025, according to official data released by the General Authority for Statistics. The figures, published on Sunday, June 14, 2026, point to sustained global demand for pilgrimage and religious travel to the holy cities.

The report recorded a total of 11,291,326 Umrah performers between October and December 2025. International pilgrims accounted for 5,701,525 of that number, while domestic pilgrims made up 5,589,801. Men represented 56.8 percent of all Umrah performers during the quarter, and women 43.2 percent.

December drew the most international pilgrims

The data shows clear monthly patterns. Among international pilgrims, December recorded the largest share at 37.6 percent of the total. November followed with 32.8 percent, while October saw the lowest share at 29.6 percent. The winter months continue to attract overseas pilgrims who seek cooler weather for performing the rites.

The picture differed for domestic pilgrims. November was the busiest month for Saudi residents performing Umrah, accounting for 36.8 percent of internal pilgrims. October represented 34.3 percent, and December 28.9 percent. According to the report, the Makkah region recorded the highest number of domestic Umrah performers, with 2,002,701 pilgrims, more than a third of all internal Umrah travelers.

Air travel dominates arrivals

Airports remained the main gateway for overseas pilgrims. The report found that 87.3 percent of international Umrah performers entered Saudi Arabia by air during the quarter. This continued reliance on air travel underlines the importance of airport capacity and airline coordination to the wider pilgrimage system.

Madinah also featured prominently in the figures. The city received a total of 5,722,584 visitors during the quarter, including both domestic and international travelers who came to visit the Prophet's Mosque. The data confirms that many pilgrims combine Umrah in Makkah with a visit to Madinah within the same journey.

What the numbers signal

The latest statistics reflect Saudi Arabia's continued effort to expand pilgrimage services and accommodate growing numbers of worshippers throughout the year. Year-round Umrah has become a central part of the Kingdom's plans, supported by digital permits through the Nusuk platform and ongoing expansion of the Grand Mosque.

For pilgrims planning a visit, the data offers useful guidance:

  • Expect peak crowds in winter. December and November draw the largest international turnout, so those seeking quieter conditions may prefer other months.
  • Book early for popular periods. High demand during peak months means accommodation near the Haram fills quickly and prices rise.
  • Plan a Madinah visit. With millions combining both cities, arranging transport and lodging in advance helps avoid delays.
  • Allow time at airports. With the overwhelming majority of pilgrims arriving by air, peak season can mean longer processing times on arrival.

The steady rise in pilgrim numbers shows that Umrah remains one of the most powerful expressions of faith in the Muslim world, drawing millions to Makkah and Madinah in every season of the year.