Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 27 Jul 2026, 6:55 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi authorities are reminding Umrah pilgrims that visas cannot be extended and that overstaying can bring fines of up to SR50,000, jail and deportation, with the 1448 season's final exit set for April 2027.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to leave large luggage at their accommodation and carry only essentials inside the Grand Mosque to ease movement during the 1448 AH Umrah season.
The Makkah Construction and Development Company has signed a SAR372 million contract to renovate the historic five-star Makkah Towers hotel overlooking the Grand Mosque, in a phased 19-month project.
Regulators are finalising the 1448 AH Umrah season controls, with Egypt's Higher Committee for Umrah and Hajj reviewing new rules and emphasising digital transformation and closer coordination with Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has partnered with Wego on a single digital platform combining flights, hotels, ground services and visa requests, with payments in Saudi riyals and three service tiers.
Saudi Arabia has published a fixed timeline for the 2027 Hajj season, setting dates for contracting, payments, visa issuance and flights through the Masar Nusuk platform.
Zulum receives 2026 Hajj Report, assures support of intending pilgrims in 2027 The Guardian Nigeria News
Saudi app Hudhud guides Umrah pilgrims through Makkah’s sacred and historic landscape Arab News
Kano Pilgrims’ Board returns N117m surplus from 2026 Hajj operations The Guardian Nigeria News
Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa for pilgrims Travel Tomorrow
Austrian politicians hope the change will prevent neo-Nazis from visiting the building as a place of pilgrimage.
Hajj packages: Airfare cut by Tk 24,830 Prothom Alo English