MAKKAH: Pakistan has emerged as the largest source of Umrah pilgrims during the opening weeks of the new Umrah season, as Saudi Arabia reported a 22.5 per cent increase in the number of pilgrims compared to the same period last year.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, more than 900,000 pilgrims have performed Umrah since the season officially began on 15 Dhul Hijjah 1448 AH, following the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Official figures released by the ministry showed that nearly 200,000 Pakistani pilgrims travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah during the first one-and-a-half months of the season, making Pakistan the leading country in terms of pilgrim arrivals. Indonesia ranked second with around 170,000 pilgrims, followed by Iraq with approximately 130,000.
The ministry said Umrah visas began being issued on May 31, 2026, and will remain available until 1 Shawwal 1448 AH (March 9, 2027). The final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia has been set as 15 Shawwal 1448 AH (March 23, 2027), while all pilgrims must depart the Kingdom by 30 Shawwal 1448 AH (April 7, 2027).
Saudi authorities have advised intending pilgrims to complete their registration, visa processing and other travel documentation well in advance to avoid delays or difficulties during their pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, preparations for next year’s Hajj are also underway in Pakistan, where the registration process for intending pilgrims continues.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, more than 340,000 people have completed online registration for Hajj so far. Of these, around 246,000 applicants have opted for the government Hajj scheme, while approximately 94,000 have registered under the private scheme.
A spokesperson for the ministry said the schedule for the online collection of Hajj dues would be announced shortly. Registered applicants have been advised to obtain further information through the Pak Hajj mobile application or by contacting the ministry’s Hajj helplines.
