Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 12:05 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has made staff training a prerequisite for Hajj visas and permits in 2027, alongside a mandatory integrated service model and a defined contracting timetable for providers.
Saudi and national health authorities have restated that the quadrivalent meningitis vaccine and seasonal flu vaccine are mandatory for Hajj 1448 AH pilgrims, alongside medical fitness declarations.
The Prophet's Mosque Library in Madinah has opened to post-Hajj pilgrims, offering access to around 4,000 original manuscripts, 250 rare handwritten Qur'ans and extensive digitized collections.
The Al Madinah Region Development Authority has equipped over 19,000 square meters of pedestrian walkways and launched a bilingual spatial guidance system to improve mobility for pilgrims around the Prophet's Mosque.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah suspended 21 Umrah service companies on June 13, 2026, citing poor performance and regulatory violations as it tightens standards across the sector.
Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs will open mandatory Hajj 2027 registration later in June 2026, requiring all applicants to hold passports valid until November 16, 2027.
Muslim pilgrims converge on Arafat for prayers and worship as Hajj reaches its peak New Haven Register
Hajj Security Forces Arrest 12 Violators Attempting to Enter Makkah Without Permits وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Journey to Mecca: Millions gather for annual hajj pilgrimage Reuters
Deputy emir of Makkah says Saudi Arabia will continue enhancing Hajj services Saudi Gazette
2026 Hajj: Zulum sponsors Hadaya for 1,725 Borno pilgrims Tribune Online
Muslim pilgrims converge on Arafat for prayers, worship as Hajj reaches its peak The Tribune-Democrat