Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
The Haramain High-Speed Railway moved more than 1.16 million passengers across 5,569 trips during the 1447 AH Hajj season, with on-time performance above 98 percent and up to 142 trips on peak days.
Pakistan opens its digitised Hajj 2027 application process on August 18 with Habib Bank as the sole banking partner, against a total quota of 179,210 pilgrims split 60/40 between government and private schemes.
Saudi Arabia has begun early Hajj 2027 preparations with more than 75 countries, reviewing operational plans and rolling out a mandatory integrated service model for accommodation, transport and catering.
Bangladesh has announced its 2027 Hajj packages, with the lowest government package set at Tk 5,05,648 and airfare cut by Tk 24,830 to Tk 1,30,000.
Saudi forecasters expect a hotter-than-normal August with stronger winds and dust, prompting heat-safety guidance for Umrah pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.
Health and vaccination rules are central to Hajj 2027 eligibility, with meningococcal and influenza vaccines required and a health declaration confirming fitness to perform the rites.
Businesses in Makkah, Madinah expecting 40% losses from Umrah pilgrimage ban Arab News