Saudi Arabia has recorded a 22.5 percent rise in Umrah visa arrivals at the start of the 1448 AH season, a sign of continued strong demand for the pilgrimage. According to figures reported by Saudi Gazette, some 931,500 pilgrims entered the Kingdom on Umrah visas between 15 Dhul Hijjah and the end of Muharram.
The total number of arrivals from abroad was higher still. More than 1.27 million pilgrims reached Saudi Arabia from outside the country during the same window, reflecting the growing scale of the Kingdom's Umrah sector as it targets far larger numbers under Vision 2030.
Where pilgrims are coming from
The data offers a clear picture of the season's early demographics. Pakistan ranked first among source countries, sending about 200,000 Umrah pilgrims. Indonesia followed with roughly 170,000, and Iraq came third with around 130,000. Together the three nations account for a substantial share of early arrivals.
Air travel dominated the journey. Around 75 percent of overseas Umrah pilgrims entered the Kingdom through airports, while the remaining 25 percent arrived by land and sea ports. The figures underline the central role of Jeddah and Madinah's airports as the main gateways for international pilgrims.
A strong first quarter
The season's momentum builds on an already busy period. Across the first quarter of 2026, external Umrah performers numbered close to 5.77 million, while domestic performers reached roughly 9.46 million. The combined totals point to sustained growth in both international and local participation.
The new season formally opened after the conclusion of Hajj, with Saudi Arabia beginning to issue Umrah visas on 31 May. Pilgrims can enter Mecca and obtain permits through the Nusuk application, which serves as the unified digital gateway for bookings, permits and pilgrimage services.
Building toward Vision 2030 targets
The early growth feeds into an ambitious national goal. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to host far greater numbers of Umrah pilgrims each year, treating the pilgrimage as both a spiritual duty it facilitates and a pillar of its diversifying economy. Rising arrivals, expanded visa flexibility and heavy investment in digital infrastructure are all part of that push.
Recent policy changes have widened the door. Saudi Arabia now allows pilgrims to perform Umrah on tourist visas and other valid Saudi visas, not only dedicated Umrah visas. Hotel and transport bookings made through Nusuk have become mandatory, giving authorities better oversight of pilgrim numbers and movement while streamlining the application process.
Key dates for the 1448 season
The season runs on a fixed calendar that pilgrims should keep in mind. Visa issuance for the new season began on 31 May, and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set firm deadlines for the final issuance of visas and the last date for pilgrim entry ahead of the next Hajj. Because these cut-off dates are strictly enforced, pilgrims planning to travel later in the season should confirm the exact deadlines before booking.
Planning your Umrah this season
For those intending to travel, the strong early numbers are a reminder to plan ahead and expect busy conditions at the holy sites. Several steps can smooth the journey.
Book accommodation and secure your Umrah permit through the official Nusuk app before applying for a visa, as verified bookings are now required. Be aware that the Umrah visa is cancelled automatically if you do not enter the Kingdom within 30 days of issuance, a shorter window than in previous years. Travel outside peak times where possible to avoid the heaviest crowds, and monitor the final entry deadlines for the 1448 season so you do not miss your window. Above all, keep your documents and digital permits organised and accessible throughout the trip.