Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims at 17 departure points in 10 countries during Hajj 2026, with Senegal and Brunei Darussalam joining the programme for the first time.
The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites completed the second phase of its Arafat shading and cooling project, expanding covered areas fivefold to more than 272,000 square metres ahead of Hajj 2026.
Saudi Arabia deployed more than 39,000 trained volunteers across the holy sites, border crossings and pilgrim cities during Hajj 2026, coordinated through a unified digital command centre linking 16 organisations.
Saudi authorities announced the successful conclusion of the Hajj 2026 season, with more than 1.7 million pilgrims completing the rites at the holy sites. Preparations for the 1448 AH pilgrimage have already begun.
Saudi Arabia has begun issuing Umrah visas for the 1448 AH season, with pilgrims able to enter Makkah from June 1, 2026. The Nusuk application is now mandatory for permit issuance regardless of visa type.
International Hajj 2026 arrivals reached 1,518,153 - surpassing 2025's total despite regional tensions. The Makkah Route Initiative served a record 388,694 pilgrims across 1,227 flights.
Businesses in Makkah, Madinah expecting 40% losses from Umrah pilgrimage ban Arab News