Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 28 Jul 2026, 6:06 PM (Saudi time)
The Haj Committee of India extended its Hajj 2027 application deadline to July 24 and set the digital selection draw for July 30, with selected pilgrims required to pay the advance amount by August 10.
Saudi authorities have launched a QR-based service at the Grand Mosque in Makkah that shows real-time crowd levels in the Mataf and Masa'a, helping pilgrims choose calmer routes for Tawaf and Sa'i.
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.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs has launched a digital 'new Muslim' card, integrated with the Tawakkalna app and verified by QR code, to automate the process of declaring Islam and support the Kingdom's wider pilgrim-services ecosystem.
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.
Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs says more than 150,000 people registered for Hajj 2027 within 10 days as the country shifts to a paperless digital system and tightens oversight of private tour operators.
Over 109 pilgrims circumvented medical screening in 2026 – NAHCON chairman The Sun Nigeria
Saudi Arabia urges pilgrims to use Umrah and Visit Guide The Malaysian Reserve
Umrah Pilgrims Could Face 50,000 Riyals Fine for Staying Beyond Visa Validity The Islamic Information
First group of 250 pilgrims from 16 countries performs Umrah under king’s guests program Arab News
The Ministry of Hajj Requests an Initial Budget of IDR 4 Trillion for 2027 Hajj Services Kompas.id
Saudi Ambassador Assures Country Safe for Hajj Pilgrims Amid US-Iran Tensions Tempo.co English