Fourth Umrah and Visit Forum launches with strong turnout

Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah today inaugurated the fourth edition of the Umrah and Visit Forum, attended by a number of officials, representatives of Umrah companies, service providers, and sector partners.

In his speech at the event, Al-Rabiah said the forum reflects the ongoing care provided to pilgrims by King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He noted that the forum is held annually under the patronage of Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Madinah Region.

He added that the forum has established itself as a global platform in previous editions, bringing together Umrah companies, service providers, and partners from inside and outside the Kingdom to build partnerships and help develop solutions and innovations that enhance the experience of pilgrims and visitors.

Al-Rabiah noted that the forum achieved growth of more than 157% in registered participants between its launch in 2024 and projections for 2026. The previous edition saw the participation of 138 companies and the signing of over 5,000 agreements.

He stated that the fourth edition aims to involve more than 200 companies, representing growth of nearly 45%, with broader local and international participation, making it a new platform for building partnerships and turning opportunities into tangible benefits for pilgrims.

The minister praised the integrated efforts of all participating entities and their contribution to the forum's growth and impact, expressing hope for continued and expanded partnerships in future editions.

During the event, the "Excellence in Services for Pilgrims Award" was launched, aiming to raise the quality of services provided to Umrah pilgrims, foster positive competition, and encourage innovation among companies. The award covers five categories: transportation and aviation, hotel services, enrichment destinations, gifts, and catering, with winners to be honored during the forum.

The forum has seen continuous growth since its launch in 2024, with registered participants in the previous edition exceeding 49,000, compared to over 19,000 at the start. The exhibition area expanded to 11,000 square meters, and 174 speakers participated in its sessions, reinforcing its role in developing the Umrah and visit services ecosystem and supporting the objectives of the Pilgrim Experience Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, to enhance the experience of pilgrims and visitors.