JEDDAH:  Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reported that more than 1.2 million pilgrims have arrived in the Kingdom to perform Umrah since the season launched. The faithful have traveled from 109 countries worldwide, reflecting surging international interest and the Kingdom’s enhanced service capabilities for religious visitors.

Ministry data shows a significant 30 percent jump in Umrah visa holders entering Saudi Arabia this year compared to the same period last year. Visa issuances also climbed 27 percent, while more than 4,200 partnership agreements were executed between domestic Umrah service providers and international agents, bolstering the Kingdom’s capacity to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.

The Umrah season was launched with digital visa processing handled through the government’s Nusuk platform. The scheme represents the latest advancement in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to streamline religious tourism as part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s comprehensive modernization blueprint.

Pilgrims have been able to secure Umrah permits directly through the Nusuk mobile application, which functions as a centralized digital gateway for pilgrim services. The platform offers streamlined booking and permit processing, complemented by additional digital tools designed to improve the overall pilgrimage experience.