Saudi Arabia to Host 1,000 International Umrah Pilgrims Under King Salman Guest Program

Riyadh-Saudi Arabia will host 1,000 Umrah pilgrims from around the world under the Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visits, following approval by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques , the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance announced on Wednesday.

The initiative, implemented by the ministry as part of Saudi Arabia’s global religious outreach efforts, will be carried out in four phases during the Islamic year 1448H. The program is designed to facilitate Umrah and religious visits for selected guests from Muslim communities worldwide.

The first phase will include 250 pilgrims and Umrah performers from 16 Asian countries: Indonesia, Timor-Leste, the Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Mongolia.

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, who also serves as general supervisor of the program, said the initiative reflects the Kingdom’s longstanding commitment to serving Islam and Muslims around the world.

He expressed appreciation for the support provided by King Salman and Crown Prince , stating that Saudi Arabia continues to prioritize enabling Muslims to perform Umrah and visit the holy sites under organized and comprehensive arrangements.

According to the ministry, participants will receive a range of services throughout their stay, including assistance with performing Umrah rituals, visits to the in Madinah, tours of Islamic and historical landmarks, and meetings with scholars and imams associated with the Two Holy Mosques.

Saudi officials said the program aims to strengthen ties among Muslim communities, promote cultural and religious exchange, and enhance communication between scholars, religious leaders and influential figures from different parts of the Islamic world.

The ministry noted that since its establishment, the Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program has hosted participants from more than 140 countries. Authorities said the initiative has developed an extensive operational framework to provide accommodation, transportation, religious guidance and logistical support to visiting guests.

The program forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to expand religious services and reinforce its role as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites while promoting engagement with Muslim communities across multiple regions.

The ministry said preparations are underway to receive the first group of pilgrims and ensure the delivery of services in accordance with established operational and hospitality standards.