Riyadh: The Pilgrim Experience Program (PEP), a central component of Saudi Vision 2030, has released its 2025 Annual Report under the theme 'Honor and Impact.' This report highlights the achievements of the Pilgrim Experience ecosystem, focusing on the continuous development of services provided to pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors, with the aim of enhancing their journey quality from planning to returning home.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the PEP successfully implemented 87 initiatives in 2025, collaborating with over 60 entities and achieving a 100% compliance rate in implementation. This effort aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's objective of elevating service quality for pilgrims and visitors, demonstrating the Kingdom's commitment to their welfare.
The report reveals that in 2025, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 19.5 million international pilgrims and Umrah performers, with 18.03 million being Umrah performers and 1.5 million pilgrims. This marks a 114% increase in Umrah performers compared to 2022, showcasing the ecosystem's readiness and service efficiency.
Visitor satisfaction indicators remained high despite increasing numbers. Hajj pilgrim satisfaction reached 91%, and Umrah performer satisfaction was at 94%, surpassing Saudi Vision 2030 targets. Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah received over 16 million visitors, with satisfaction rates rising from 57% in 2022 to 88% in 2025, illustrating the positive impact of service improvements.
The report also noted an increase in developed historical sites and enrichment destinations in Makkah and Madinah to 87, drawing over 55 million visits. This development enriches pilgrims' experiences, deepening their connection to Islamic heritage.
Community participation saw a significant boost, with 184,569 volunteers serving pilgrims and visitors in 2025. This reflects the Kingdom's growing culture of volunteerism and its critical role in enhancing service quality.
Saudi Arabia also achieved notable international rankings, with Makkah and Madinah securing fifth and seventh positions respectively in global visitor reception and tourism performance.
Digital services saw advancements, with 15.03 million visas issued in various categories, including Umrah. Pakistan, Indonesia, and Egypt led in Umrah visa arrivals, highlighting integrated efforts in facilitating pilgrim journeys.
The report concludes by affirming these efforts' contribution to Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's leading role in serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.
