The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that it will host the inaugural Umrah and Ziyarah Forum this year, running from April 22nd to the 24th at the King Salman International Convention Centre in Madinah. The launch of this forum is part of a series of events held by the ministry to improve services available to pilgrims. The event will involve dialogue and discussion groups as well as interactive workshops.

Umrah pilgrims to the Kingdom hit a record 13.55 million in 2023, with the Ministry aiming to improve the experience for all visiting pilgrims. The forum will invite participation from agency officials, Umrah operators, transports and logistics companies, media outlets, travel agents, financial organisations and many more. The forum will also allow the Kingdom to showcase its latest Umrah initiatives and strategies in line with Vision 2030, with the broadening of these services a key priority of the government in continuing the country’s historic role in welcoming Muslims from across the globe.