51 million users on the Nusuk app and pilgrim satisfaction reaches 94%
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed unprecedented leaps in the number of Umrah pilgrims and the quality of services provided to them. This came during the opening ceremony of the third edition of the Umrah and Visit Forum, held under the theme “A History Told at Every Stop.” These achievements were clearly demonstrated by the record-breaking figures achieved through the Nusuk app, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to facilitating the journey of Umrah pilgrims and visitors from around the world, with broad participation from government agencies, the private sector, and international companies.
Digital transformation in serving the pilgrims
Historically, the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage has undergone numerous phases of development, but the last decade has witnessed a qualitative leap coinciding with the launch of Saudi Vision 2030. The wise leadership has placed serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors at the forefront of its priorities, aiming to facilitate the hosting of more pilgrims and ease access to Mecca and Medina. In this context, the launch of digital platforms was a strategic step to eliminate traditional paperwork, contributing to transforming the pilgrim's journey into a seamless electronic experience from the initial planning stage to their safe return home.
Exceptional growth in the number of Umrah pilgrims
During his opening remarks at the forum, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, explained that the number of Umrah pilgrims arriving from outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has exceeded 18 million. This figure represents a remarkable growth rate of 214% during the period from 2022 to 2025. This indicator is clear evidence of the accelerating pace of recovery and significant expansion in the Umrah sector, which has been supported by a comprehensive package of facilities and advanced digital services provided by the Saudi government to remove all obstacles for visitors.
Record numbers via the Nusuk app and pilgrim satisfaction
In a related context, the Minister revealed a significant technological achievement: the number of users of the Nusuk app has surpassed 51 million from around the world. This global demand reinforces the role of digital transformation in facilitating the Umrah journey by providing booking services, permit issuance, and comprehensive trip planning. The success wasn't limited to numbers alone; it extended to the quality of services as well. Al-Rabiah noted that pilgrim satisfaction is projected to reach 94% by 2025. This figure reflects the high quality of the overall experience offered by the Hajj and Umrah services system, emphasizing that improving the pilgrim experience is a top strategic priority for the Ministry.
Expanding capacity and enriching the cultural experience
Regarding the Prophet's Mosque, statistics show that the capacity for visiting the Rawdah (the area between the Prophet's grave and his pulpit) has more than doubled, with the number of visitors exceeding 15.6 million last year. Believing in the importance of enriching the visitor's experience culturally and religiously, work has been underway to develop and enhance historical and cultural sites and attractions, increasing their number to 87. This initiative contributes to connecting pilgrims with the Prophet's biography and the rich history of Islam, thus giving the journey profound spiritual and cultural dimensions.
Economic and international impact and system readiness
This rapid development has a significant impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, the resurgence of the Umrah sector is creating thousands of jobs and stimulating economic activity in the hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors. Internationally, it solidifies the Kingdom's position as a leading global religious tourism destination, capable of efficiently accommodating millions of visitors. Regarding the system's readiness, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that, despite the challenges and changes in the region, the system for serving pilgrims has demonstrated its high level of preparedness to handle all emergencies. This has been achieved through close cooperation with the General Authority of Civil Aviation and other relevant authorities via dedicated operations rooms, ensuring that challenges are addressed and services are provided with the highest efficiency, guaranteeing the comfort and safety of pilgrims, and ultimately contributing to the realization of the goals of Vision 2030.
