Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 13 Sep 2026, 11:08 AM (Saudi time)
Official statistics show 15,233,767 pilgrims performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2026, with air travel carrying most international arrivals, as Saudi Arabia manages the 1448 AH season calendar.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa, valid 365 days with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, to ease repeat pilgrimages.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a Nusuk Card discount program, giving pilgrims savings across retail, transport, food, hospitality and healthcare, applied instantly when the card is scanned at participating outlets.
Iran has resumed Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia after a roughly six-month pause, with 18,000 pilgrims in the first phase and about five million voucher holders still waiting.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offers a multiple-entry Umrah visa valid for 365 days with a pooled 90-day stay, letting pilgrims make repeat visits, though it cannot be used during the Hajj season.
GASTAT data show more than 15.2 million people performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2026, and the new 1448 AH season has opened with a 22.5 percent rise in international arrivals.
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Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques' Program Depart Madinah for Makkah to Perform Umrah وكالة الأنباء السعودية