Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
The Nusuk app has added six features for pilgrims, including an automatic Tawaf and Sa'ee round tracker, live crowd levels, interactive mosque maps, a Qibla finder, in-app flight and hotel booking, and an AI assistant.
Saudi authorities have set health requirements for Hajj 2027 including mandatory meningococcal vaccination, recommended seasonal influenza and COVID-19 shots, and declarations confirming pilgrims are free from conditions that would prevent them meeting the physical demands of Hajj.
Egypt's Ministry of Social Solidarity opened 2027 Hajj registration for members of civil society organisations from August 18 to 31, 2026, requiring applicants to be Egyptian citizens aged at least 21 by January 28, 2027 who have not previously performed Hajj.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the 1448 AH Umrah calendar, setting March 9, 2027 as the final date for visa issuance and April 7, 2027 as the last departure date.
King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, the main air gateway for pilgrims, served about 28.55 million passengers in the first seven months of 2026, officials said during a performance review.
Saudi authorities have launched a suite of online services for the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, letting visitors check crowd levels, view interactive maps and plan their visit before they arrive.
Makkah organizes tour to help global operators diversify Umrah packages PressReader
Hajj and Umrah Committee discusses plans and arrangements for next Hajj season Saudi Gazette
Makkah Royal Commission Hosts Introductory Tour for Umrah Companies, International Agents وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Makkah hosts tour to help global operators diversify Umrah packages Arab News
Makkah hosts tour to help global operators diversify Umrah packages Arab News
Makkah hosts tour to help global operators diversify Umrah packages Arab News