Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 29 Jul 2026, 5:28 PM (Saudi time)
Indonesia has launched a formal review of its 2026 Hajj operation, citing lower pilgrim costs, pre-departure Nusuk Cards and a 25 percent fall in deaths, while flagging healthcare and conditions in Mina as priorities for reform.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah service companies for poor performance and regulatory breaches, underscoring tighter oversight of the sector.
Astronomers say the Hajj is moving out of peak summer heat into milder spring and winter seasons for roughly 25 years, easing conditions for pilgrims.
Corendon Airlines has begun direct Antalya-Jeddah Umrah flights for the 2026-2027 season and plans to add services from five more Turkish cities.
With July among the hottest months in Makkah, pilgrims are urged to time rituals carefully and use the Kingdom's expanded cooling network to stay safe.
Saudi Arabia General Authority for Statistics has confirmed that 1,707,301 pilgrims performed Hajj 2026, with a detailed register-based breakdown by nationality, arrival method, gender, and workforce.
Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa Gulf Business
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