Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Egypt has opened registration for the 2027 Hajj season through its official lottery and a separate track for members of civil society organisations, with tight eligibility rules and deadlines in late August.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has approved updated licensing, classification and inspection rules for pilgrim accommodation in Makkah and Madinah ahead of the 2027 Hajj season.
The Haj Committee of India has named 6,864 applicants in its first Hajj 2027 waiting list, giving them until 30 August 2026 to pay Rs 1,52,300 and confirm their seats.
Saudi Public Security has warned that Hajj and Umrah companies face fines of up to SR100,000 for failing to report pilgrims who overstay, with the penalty rising for each unreported case.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has begun preparatory meetings with Hajj offices in over 75 countries to plan the 1448 AH season.
Pakistan is placing all Hajj 2027 bookings under Ministry of Religious Affairs oversight, with a new digital system, four-year registration and a 179,210 quota.
Businesses in Makkah, Madinah expecting 40% losses from Umrah pilgrimage ban Arab News