Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 29 Jul 2026, 11:19 AM (Saudi time)
Nigeria's NAHCON has opened Hajj 2027 registration with a September 26, 2026 deadline and a minimum deposit of 4 million naira, as Saudi service agreements open on the Masar Nusuk platform from July 29.
Jadwa Investment aims to nearly double its real estate assets to SR50 billion and invest SR30 billion more in Makkah and Madinah, while Ladun launches a SR4 billion Makkah fund, as private capital chases Vision 2030 pilgrim growth.
India's Haj Policy 2027 introduces an AI assistant offering round-the-clock multilingual support, automated document checks and real-time grievance tracking, alongside a better inspector-to-pilgrim ratio.
Saudi Arabia deported 12,292 residency, labour and border violators in one week, arresting 15,591 people between June 25 and July 1, a reminder for pilgrims to travel only on valid visas and leave before they expire.
With the 1448 AH Umrah season running through peak summer, authorities urge pilgrims to guard against extreme Makkah heat now topping 42C, using cooler worship windows, hydration and the Grand Mosque's cooling systems.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says its Nusuk app has passed 30 million downloads, a 150 percent annual rise, with users from more than 190 countries.
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