Enhancing the experience of pilgrims: Broad international presence at the Umrah and Visit Forum

Madinah will host the third edition of Umrah and Visit Forum 2026which is organized by Ministry of Hajj and Umrah In partnership with the service program Guests of the Most MercifulThis took place at the King Salman International Conference Center, with broad participation from business leaders, decision-makers and specialists from various countries around the world, in a step that reflects the rapid transformation in the Umrah and visit services system in the Kingdom.
The forum is being held amid a remarkable increase in the number of pilgrims and visitors, which is pushing towards reshaping the experience of the guests of God according to an integrated model that goes beyond providing traditional service to building a comprehensive experience that begins from the stage of planning the trip until the visitor’s departure, through an interconnected system of logistical, technical and hospitality services.

Umrah and Visit Forum

The broad international presence, the participation of more than 160 speakers and more than 150 exhibitors, along with the expectation of receiving more than 40,000 visitors, confirms the position that the forum has come to occupy as a global platform for exchanging experiences and anticipating the future of the sector, in light of the qualitative transformations it is witnessing, driven by innovation and digital transformation.

The forum sessions address key topics related to service integration, developing a cultural and enriching visitor experience, as well as reviewing the latest solutions in the fields of crowd management, transportation, hospitality, and digital services, which contribute to raising performance efficiency and improving the quality of services provided to the guests of God.

Crowd management

In this context, technology is no longer merely a supporting element, but has become a fundamental pillar in operating Umrah and visitation services. This is achieved by leveraging data and smart systems to enhance mobility, improve crowd management, and provide more efficient and flexible services that meet visitors' expectations and elevate their experience. Furthermore, the signing of numerous agreements and partnerships during the forum reflects a trend towards empowering the investment sector and opening opportunities for local and international companies to contribute to service development. This, in turn, strengthens the sector's competitiveness and aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

The accompanying exhibition provides an interactive space showcasing the latest operational models and innovative solutions in smart transportation, hospitality, digital services, and sustainability. This allows participants to learn about best practices and build strategic partnerships that contribute to the development of the system.
The forum embodies the Kingdom's vision of reshaping the Hajj and Umrah experience through an integrated system based on service quality, operational efficiency, technology utilization, and enhanced partnerships. This will solidify the Kingdom's position as a leading global destination for serving pilgrims and visitors, reflecting the wise leadership's commitment to elevating and sustainably developing this experience.