Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Sep 2026, 10:12 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reported a 22.5 percent rise in Umrah visa arrivals, with international pilgrims exceeding 1.27 million. Pakistan, Indonesia and Iraq sent the largest groups.
Saudi Arabia has introduced a multiple-entry Umrah visa valid for 365 days with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, managed entirely through the Nusuk platform.
Bangladesh has set its Hajj 2027 packages, with the highest government package at Tk 6,15,263 and the lowest at Tk 5,05,648, and cut Hajj airfare by Tk 24,830 to Tk 1,30,000.
Saudi Arabia has unveiled Hajj 2027 reforms making training compulsory for Hajj office staff before visas are issued, bundling accommodation, transport and catering into mandatory integrated packages, and opening a priority accommodation reservation window that closes on 13 August 2026.
Mauritania has launched its first fully digital Hajj registration for the 1448 AH / 2027 season through the government's Khadamati platform, with applications open until 21 August 2026.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has cut the Umrah entry visa validity to 30 days, made confirmed Nusuk hotel and transport bookings a precondition for a visa, and confirmed all visa types can perform Umrah for the 1448 AH season.
MOI warns of SR100,000 fine for transporting visit visa holders to Makkah during Hajj season Saudi Gazette
Ministry sets up 32 children’s hospitality centers in Makkah and Madinah Arab News
Ramadan: Mecca, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors The Business Standard
194,000 pilgrims in Madinah post-Hajj Arab News