Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 12:02 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.
Municipalities Minister Inspects Readiness of Holy Makkah Municipality, Holy Sites for Hajj Season وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Saudi Arabia Joins United States, Iran, Israel, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Major Gulf States as Bold Worshippers Challenge Conflict Zones, Navigate Rising Tensions, and Embark on Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Sacred Hajj Tourism Pilgrimage Experience Travel And Tour World
2026 Hajj: Nigerian pilgrims move to Makkah ahead Arafat day Tribune Online
Photos: Millions of Muslims Gather in Mecca for Annual Hajj Pilgrimage ABNA English
Sun to align directly above Kaaba on Day of Arafat in rare 33-year event Gulf News
Licensable picture: Pilgrims perform umrah around the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque ahead of the start of hajj in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia reutersconnect.com