Riyadh: The number of Umrah pilgrims has increased by more than 22 percent, with Pakistani visitors emerging as the largest group among international worshippers performing the religious pilgrimage, according to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The ministry stated that the current Umrah season began after the completion of Hajj, starting from 15 Dhul Hijjah 1448 AH. Since the beginning of the season until 29 Muharram, more than 900,000 pilgrims have performed Umrah within a period of approximately one and a half months.
According to Saudi authorities, pilgrims from Pakistan represented the highest number of visitors, with around 200,000 Pakistanis arriving in the Kingdom to perform Umrah. Indonesia ranked second with approximately 170,000 pilgrims, followed by Iraq with around 130,000 visitors.
Saudi Arabia began issuing Umrah visas on 31 May 2026. The deadline for visa issuance has been set for 1 Shawwal 1448 AH (9 March 2027), while the final date for pilgrims to enter the Kingdom is 15 Shawwal 1448 AH (23 March 2027).
The Saudi authorities have set 30 Shawwal 1448 AH (7 April 2027) as the final departure date for Umrah pilgrims from the Kingdom. Officials have advised visitors to complete registration procedures and travel documentation on time to avoid difficulties during their pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the registration process for Pakistani pilgrims intending to perform Hajj is also underway. The Ministry of Religious Affairs of Pakistan said that the number of online registered applicants has reached 340,000.
According to ministry officials, around 246,000 applicants have selected the government Hajj scheme, while approximately 94,000 people have opted for the private Hajj scheme.
The ministry spokesperson said that an announcement regarding the online collection of Hajj payments is expected soon. Registered pilgrims have been advised to stay connected with the ministry for updates and use the Pak Hajj application or official helplines for guidance and assistance.
The rising number of Umrah pilgrims reflects the continued global demand for religious travel to Saudi Arabia, while authorities continue efforts to improve services, registration systems, and facilities for visitors arriving from different countries.
