1,000 Umrah pilgrims to become royal guests of King Salman - Are you eligible?

The initiative will bring selected pilgrims from 66 countries to Saudi Arabia for a unique spiritual experience.

The approval has been granted under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit. This special quota is reserved for distinguished guests who are invited and hosted as royal guests by the Saudi leadership.

According to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the program will be implemented in four phases during the year 1448 Hijri. In the first phase, 250 Umrah pilgrims from 16 Asian countries will be invited to visit Saudi Arabia.

A report by the Saudi Gazette said the selected countries include Indonesia, East Timor, the Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Mongolia. The move is aimed at strengthening ties with Muslim communities and influential personalities across different regions.

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdul Latif Al Sheikh thanked the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the initiative. He said the program reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to serving Islam and Muslims around the world.

He added that the initiative promotes brotherhood, communication and cooperation among different segments of the Muslim world. The program is also expected to strengthen relations with scholars, religious figures and influential members of Muslim societies.

Also read: Planning Umrah? Saudi Arabia begins visa issuance after Hajj 2026

This program shows Saudi Arabia’s continued focus on religious outreach and international engagement. It may help strengthen cultural and spiritual connections between Muslim communities from different countries.