Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 28 Jul 2026, 6:06 PM (Saudi time)
Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais has launched a Field Services Center at the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah to improve services for visitors during the 1448 AH Umrah and visitation season, strengthening coordination among agencies and field response.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the 1448 AH Umrah season calendar, setting March 9 as the visa issuance deadline, March 23 as the final entry date and April 7 as the departure deadline for 2027.
Saudi Arabia will fold a compulsory Nusuk meal voucher into the Umrah visa fee, charging 20 riyals per day, with an initial rollout in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Egypt.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa allowing repeat visits with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, linked to the Nusuk platform.
Saudi Arabia welcomed 931,500 Umrah pilgrims in the opening weeks of the 1448 AH season, a 22.5 percent rise, with Pakistan, Indonesia, and Iraq sending the most pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia has launched an Electronic Travel Authorization for UK citizens allowing multiple entries and stays of up to 180 days, and it can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season.
First group of king’s Umrah guests to arrive in Madinah on Wednesday Arab News
First group of king’s Umrah guests to arrive in Madinah on Wednesday Arab News
2026 Umrah Visa Guide Helps Pilgrims Plan Saudi Trip FTN news
Islamic Affairs Ministry Intensifies Umrah Guidance in Makkah Hotels وكالة الأنباء السعودية