JEDDAH: The number of Umrah visas issued this year has reached 2,785,790, of which 2,346,429 pilgrims have arrived in the Kingdom, according to data provided by the Hajj and Umrah Ministry.
There are 345,114 pilgrims still in the Kingdom, with 233,910 in Makkah and 111,204 in Madinah.
Most pilgrims — 2,122,424 — came to the Kingdom by air, while 213,121 entered by land and 10,884 arrived by sea.
The largest number of pilgrims are from Pakistan (637,745) followed by Indonesia (420,410), India (292,607), Malaysia (135,895), Yemen (128,618), Egypt (73,179), Turkey (65,970), the UAE (59,855) and Bangladesh (57,701).
The Vision 2030 reform plan aims to attract more than 30 million Umrah pilgrims, and provide them with excellent services and an outstanding experience.
Last year, the ministry launched a weekly indicator whereby authorities can track the number of pilgrims coming into the Kingdom, and in turn enrich their experiences by providing high-quality services.
Saudi Arabia issues 2.78 million Umrah visas so far
Saudi Arabia issues 2.78 million Umrah visas so far
- The Vision 2030 reform plan aims to attract more than 30 million Umrah pilgrims, and provide them with excellent services and an outstanding experience
King Abdulaziz Camel Festival sees unprecedented demand
- Has become a major economic engine for the camel breeding industry in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf
- Auctioneer Mubarak Al-Ghannami said that around 200 camels are entered into the daily auction
RIYADH: The 10th annual King Abdulaziz Camel Festival held in Al-Sayahid, north of Riyadh, has seen unprecedented demand this year, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
It has become a major economic engine for the camel breeding industry in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf, with prices reaching over SR100,000 ($27,000) at auction for the best specimens.
Auctioneer Mubarak Al-Ghannami told the SPA that around 200 camels are entered into the daily auction, with prices starting at around SR4,000.
The festival supports economic activity beyond just the auctions, however, with job opportunities in camel transportation and related auxiliary sectors.
Veteran transporter Abu Naif Al-Mutairi highlighted the potential for seasonal profit and encouraged young Saudis to engage in the industry.
Organizers Saudi Camel Club have set up a 500-meter corridor of tents and pens for breeders and buyers.
High-stakes sales take place on specialized auction platforms and main exhibition areas, drawing global attention to the quality of Saudi livestock.
Industry experts and participants have reported a significant shift in market dynamics, with attendee Dr. Daghash Al-Masradi noting that the festival attracts buyers now seeking the highest-quality camels.
He noted that the organized environment allows owners to operate with greater freedom and energy.
The festival is a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to promote cultural tourism and showcase Saudi heritage to an international audience.
Featuring traditional crafts and cuisine, visitors are offered a glimpse into the Kingdom’s culture.
It also serves as an important platform to highlight the significance of the camel in the history of Saudi Arabia.
This year’s festival began on Dec. 1 and runs until Jan. 3, with prices for admission starting at SR500.
