GASTAT: Number of Umrah Performers Rose by 31% in Q4 2024

The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
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GASTAT: Number of Umrah Performers Rose by 31% in Q4 2024

The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), in its report on Umrah statistics for the fourth quarter of 2024, revealed on Thursday that the number of Umrah performers increased by 31% compared to the same quarter in 2023.

The report showed that males constituted about 53% of the Umrah performers, while females accounted for 47%. Saudi nationals comprised 4.5% of the total, with the Makkah Region recording the highest number of domestic Umrah performers.
The report also indicated a 26.2% increase in international Umrah performers compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Of these, 64.7% arrived with an Umrah visa. December saw the highest number of international Umrah performers at 38.2%, while November recorded the highest percentage of domestic Umrah performers completing the ritual for one time, representing 34% of the total.
Umrah statistics have been issued quarterly since 2024, detailing the numbers and percentages of domestic and international Umrah performers based on data from the Pilgrim Experience Program, along with approved statistical models.



Kuwaiti Emir Calls on Citizens to Adhere to Democratic Approach, Constitutional References

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. (KUNA)
Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. (KUNA)
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Kuwaiti Emir Calls on Citizens to Adhere to Democratic Approach, Constitutional References

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. (KUNA)
Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. (KUNA)

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah called on Kuwaiti citizens to adhere to the democratic approach and the constitutional references.

"National identity is at the top of our priorities. It belongs to every genuine Kuwaiti keen on his country's progress and the elevation of its status," KUNA quoted the Emir in an address to the nation on the occasion of the last 10 days of Ramadan.

During the speech, the Emir lauded the reactions of the “loyal and faithful” people of Kuwait towards the reform decisions that the government took lately.

"I would like to say that the advocates of division and the instigators of sedition are trying to confuse matters, spread rumors, and distort statements, to divide the ranks and cause discontent," he said.

The Emir emphasized the keenness to balance between firmness in everything that affects national unity and achieving justice in citizenship issues, and that dealing with them is by the law, far from political outbidding and pressures.

"I affirm commitment to reforming, strengthening stability, and upholding the country's supreme interests, continuing to combat corruption and confronting anyone who attempts to tamper with the nation's security and stability," the Emir added.

He also stressed that he follows with great interest the work of the state's agencies, as he directs, monitors, and directs the government to expedite the implementation of all state development projects, especially health, education and housing.

"I am certain, with a reassured soul, an optimistic spirit and great confidence in the authentic Kuwaiti people's ability to overcome challenges," said the Emir.

On the other hand, he affirmed that Kuwait will maintain its diplomatic approach with friendly countries and their common causes, with its firm stances that uphold justice and stand against injustice. The Palestinian cause will remain at the top of its foreign policy priorities, and Kuwait will maintain its principled position in support of the brotherly Palestinian people's right to achieve all their legitimate rights, the Emir added.

He also went on warning of the upcoming challenges, stressing the importance of realizing the magnitude of the responsibility, which requires everyone to adhere to national unity to preserve the security and stability of the homeland.