Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 15 million Umrah pilgrims during the first quarter of 2026, according to official figures reported in early September. The numbers point to sustained demand for the year-round pilgrimage and reflect the Kingdom's continued push to expand capacity at the two holy cities.

The data, cited by Travel And Tour World, recorded 15,233,767 Umrah pilgrims between January 1 and March 31, 2026. The total combines domestic worshippers already inside the Kingdom with international visitors who travelled specifically to perform the rite.

Who Performed Umrah

Of the quarter's total, roughly 9.5 million were domestic pilgrims, meaning Saudi citizens and residents. About 5.77 million were international visitors arriving from abroad. The split underlines how large a share of Umrah activity comes from within the Kingdom, even as the international segment continues to grow.

By gender, men accounted for around 56.4 percent of pilgrims and women for about 40.6 percent, according to the reported figures. The balance reflects the broad, family-oriented nature of the pilgrimage, which draws worshippers of all ages throughout the season.

How Pilgrims Arrived

Air travel remained the dominant route for international pilgrims. Around 86 percent, close to 4.96 million people, entered through the Kingdom's airports. Land crossings carried about 13.6 percent, or roughly 784,000 travellers, while sea arrivals made up a small fraction at around 0.4 percent, close to 23,000 pilgrims.

The heavy reliance on air travel highlights the importance of airport capacity and processing systems, particularly at gateways serving Jeddah and Madinah. It also explains the emphasis authorities have placed on digital pre-arrival steps, which aim to reduce congestion once pilgrims land.

A Season Built Around Nusuk

The 1448 AH Umrah season, which opened earlier in 2026, has continued to run through the Nusuk platform, the official channel for permits and visas. Umrah visa issuance for the current season began in late May 2026, with pilgrim entry following shortly after.

Authorities have set clear closing dates for the season. The final date for issuing Umrah visas falls on March 9, 2027, the last day for pilgrim entry is March 23, 2027, and all pilgrims are expected to depart by April 7, 2027. Umrah companies and agents have been urged to adhere strictly to these dates to keep the system running smoothly.

Building Capacity at the Holy Cities

Volumes on this scale rest on years of investment in the infrastructure that moves and houses pilgrims. Expansion work at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the growth of hotel capacity in both cities, and the Haramain High-Speed Railway linking Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah have together raised the number of visitors the system can absorb.

Digital services have played an equally important role. By shifting permits, bookings, and payments onto the Nusuk platform, authorities have sought to smooth the flow of pilgrims and cut the paperwork that once slowed arrivals. The aim is to let worshippers spend more time on worship and less on logistics.

What the Numbers Signal

The first-quarter total suggests the Kingdom remains on a strong trajectory for Umrah, consistent with long-term goals under Vision 2030 to raise the annual number of pilgrims. Sustained volumes at this level place a premium on crowd management, transport, and accommodation across Makkah and Madinah.

For prospective pilgrims, the figures are a reminder that popular periods can be busy well beyond the Hajj days. Planning around quieter windows, and completing formalities early, can make for a calmer visit.

Practical Tips for Umrah Travellers

  • Book through Nusuk. Use the official platform for your Umrah visa and permits, and keep your booking confirmations accessible.
  • Mind the season deadlines. For the current 1448 season, ensure your visa is issued by March 9, 2027, and plan your departure before April 7, 2027.
  • Consider timing. If you have flexibility, travelling outside peak weeks can mean shorter queues at the Haram and easier access to accommodation.
  • Plan your arrival route. Most international pilgrims fly in, so allow time for airport processing and onward transport to Makkah.
  • Prepare documents in advance. Confirm passport validity and any required health steps before booking travel.