Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Sep 2026, 10:12 AM (Saudi time)
The OIC, Muslim World League and several governments condemned a Houthi drone attempt to strike Makkah, calling it a violation of Islam's holiest sites and expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will host the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah from November 8 to 11 under King Salman's patronage, gathering more than 520 organisations across three service tracks.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched Direct Umrah, letting pilgrims book Umrah packages online through licensed platforms including Wego, ShareTrip and Wakanow. The service is part of a wider digital shift centred on the Nusuk app.
Saudi air defenses intercepted a Houthi drone south of Makkah on September 15, prompting a rare security alert in the holy city that was quickly lifted. Officials called pilgrim safety a 'red line' as worship at the Grand Mosque continued.
The US State Department has urged citizens to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia after a rise in missile and drone attacks near Makkah. Umrah remains open, and pilgrims are advised to check official guidance and book through licensed operators.
Saudi Arabia's official Nusuk app has added spiritual, navigation and health tools plus a zero-data offline mode, and now serves pilgrims from more than 100 countries with over 120 services.
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