MAKKAH: Pakistan ranked first among countries sending Umrah pilgrims to Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom recorded a 22.5 percent increase in the number of worshippers during the early weeks of the new Umrah season, according to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The ministry said more than 900,000 pilgrims had performed Umrah since the season officially began on 15 Dhul Hijjah 1448 AH, following the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Official figures showed that nearly 200,000 pilgrims arrived from Pakistan during the first six weeks of the season, the highest number among all countries. Indonesia ranked second with around 170,000 pilgrims, followed by Iraq with approximately 130,000.
Saudi authorities attributed the rise in pilgrim numbers to the smooth start of the season and the continued demand for Umrah travel from across the Muslim world.
According to the ministry, the issuance of Umrah visas began on May 31, 2026. The final date for Umrah visa issuance has been set for March 9, 2027, while pilgrims will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia until March 23, 2027.
The ministry added that the final departure date for Umrah pilgrims will be April 7, 2027.
Saudi officials advised intending pilgrims to complete their registration, visa applications and travel documentation in advance to avoid difficulties during their journey.
Meanwhile, preparations for the next Hajj season are also underway in Pakistan. The Ministry of Religious Affairs said more than 340,000 people have so far completed online registration for Hajj.
Of the registered applicants, around 246,000 opted for the government Hajj scheme, while approximately 94,000 registered under the private scheme.
The ministry said the schedule for online collection of Hajj expenses would be announced soon and urged prospective pilgrims to obtain updates through the Pak Hajj mobile application and official Hajj helplines.
