Pakistan has emerged as the largest source of Umrah pilgrims during the opening weeks of the 1448 AH season, according to figures released by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program. The Kingdom welcomed 931,500 pilgrims on Umrah visas between the 15th of Dhu Al-Hijjah and the end of Muharram, a 22.5 percent increase over the same period a year earlier.
Total international arrivals during the period exceeded 1.27 million, a figure that includes visitors entering on a range of visa types who went on to perform Umrah. The ministry attributed the rise to sustained government support, closer coordination among the authorities that serve pilgrims, and continued improvements to digital and operational services under Saudi Vision 2030.
Which countries sent the most pilgrims
Pakistan recorded the highest number of Umrah pilgrims, with roughly 200,000 arrivals during the first weeks of the season. Indonesia followed in second place with around 170,000 pilgrims, and Iraq ranked third with approximately 130,000. The three nations together accounted for a substantial share of the early-season traffic, reflecting long-standing demand from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the wider region.
The strong showing builds on an already busy year for religious tourism. According to the ministry, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 11 million Umrah performers during the fourth quarter of 2025, underlining the steady global appetite for pilgrimage. Officials said they would continue to expand digital accessibility and operational capacity so that pilgrims experience a smooth journey from the planning stage through to departure.
How pilgrims are arriving
Air travel dominated the early season, accounting for 75 percent of international arrivals. The remaining 25 percent of pilgrims entered the Kingdom through land and sea ports. The split highlights the importance of the Kingdom's major airports, chiefly King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, as gateways for the majority of visitors heading to the two holy mosques.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in the systems that move pilgrims through these entry points. Electronic permits, automated contracting for Umrah operators, and QR-code verification have all been introduced in recent seasons, alongside expanded transport and hospitality capacity intended to absorb rising numbers.
Key dates for the 1448 season
The ministry began issuing Umrah visas for the 1448 AH season on May 31, 2026, following the conclusion of the 1447 AH Hajj season. International pilgrims have been arriving since the same date. The current season will continue until March 23, 2027.
The final date for issuing Umrah visas is March 9, 2027, which corresponds to the 1st of Shawwal 1448 AH. Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia no later than March 23, 2027, and all Umrah pilgrims are required to leave the Kingdom by April 7, 2027. Permits to enter Makkah and perform Umrah are obtained through the Nusuk application, the unified government platform for bookings, permits, and pilgrimage services.
Practical tips for pilgrims
Pilgrims planning to travel this season should secure an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app before departing, as entry to Makkah and the Grand Mosque requires a valid permit. Booking a service package from an approved provider on Nusuk is a standard requirement for many visa categories. Those considering the newly introduced one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa should note that it cannot be used during the Hajj season, which runs from the 1st of Dhu Al-Qadah to the 13th of Dhu Al-Hijjah.
Travellers are advised to plan around the published deadlines to avoid last-minute pressure, to confirm that vaccination and health requirements are met before flying, and to keep digital copies of permits and package confirmations accessible on arrival. Early booking is particularly valuable for elderly pilgrims and large family groups, who benefit most from settled transport and accommodation arrangements.