Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Sep 2026, 10:12 AM (Saudi time)
Pakistan's religious affairs ministry has told private Hajj operators to activate their 2027 packages or forfeit quota, after just 54 of 71,684 private seats were booked in the opening five days.
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has proposed raising the 2027 Hajj cost to IDR 107.34 million per pilgrim, with a larger government subsidy that oversight bodies warn could strain pilgrimage funds.
Countries including the UAE, Pakistan and Nigeria have set Hajj 2027 registration deadlines in late September, many around 26 September, to meet Saudi Arabia's cut-off for uploading pilgrim data to Nusuk and Masar Nusuk.
The 1448 Umrah season remains open into spring 2027, with visas issued until 9 March and entry until 23 March, offering pilgrims cooler weather after a summer of heat warnings, subject to Nusuk booking rules.
Saudi Arabia has published the full Hajj 1448 (2027) timetable, with service contracting under way now, pilgrim data uploads through January, visa issuance from 28 January 2027 and flights from 8 April 2027.
Saudi Arabia's National Center for Meteorology forecasts above-normal temperatures through October 2026, prompting heat-safety guidance for summer Umrah pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.
MOI warns of SR100,000 fine for transporting visit visa holders to Makkah during Hajj season Saudi Gazette
Ministry sets up 32 children’s hospitality centers in Makkah and Madinah Arab News
Ramadan: Mecca, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors The Business Standard
194,000 pilgrims in Madinah post-Hajj Arab News