Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 5:11 PM (Saudi time)
Pilgrims from around 66 eligible countries can apply directly for an Umrah visa through Nusuk, while travellers elsewhere must use a licensed agent, with hotel booking now required before applying.
Saudi health authorities say the 2026 Hajj concluded with no epidemiological outbreaks and no major crowd accidents, crediting heat mitigation, AI-guided pathways, and a large medical deployment.
Saudi Arabia has restructured Hajj 2027 service packages into three tiers, scrapping the long-standing Package D and tying accommodation, transport, and catering into unified contracts.
A pure gold plaque that once crowned the gate of the Holy Kaaba more than three centuries ago is now on display at the Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques Architecture in Makkah.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission and the University of Exeter uncovered more than 1,700 artefacts at the historic Al Juhfah miqat, including kilns, a water channel and Umayyad and Abbasid-era tombstones.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched the Masar Nusuk digital service to automate Umrah contracting for the 1448 AH season, using unified electronic contracts with QR-code verification.
Hajj 2026 Begins Amid Scorching Heat and Regional Tensions The Indian Awaaz
Millions gather in Mecca for Hajj despite security concerns France 24
Hajj 2026 Begins: Pilgrims Head To Tent City Mina As Over 1.5 Million Arrive In Makkah ETV Bharat
Saudi Arabia Highlighting Advanced Tech for Hajj Pilgrimage Travel and Tourism, Crowd Safety, and Airline Coordination 2026 Travel And Tour World
Millions flood Mecca as Hajj starts under tight security Minute Mirror
Nearly two million Muslims gather in Mina for Hajj pilgrimage AnewZ