Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs has launched a digital 'new Muslim' card, integrated with the Tawakkalna app and verified by QR code, to automate the process of declaring Islam and support the Kingdom's wider pilgrim-services ecosystem.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the 1448 AH Umrah season calendar, setting March 9 as the visa issuance deadline, March 23 as the final entry date and April 7 as the departure deadline for 2027.
Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs says more than 150,000 people registered for Hajj 2027 within 10 days as the country shifts to a paperless digital system and tightens oversight of private tour operators.
As countries begin preparing for Hajj 2027, health authorities are reiterating the vaccination and medical requirements pilgrims must meet, led by the mandatory meningococcal vaccine.
Indonesia has proposed keeping its 60:40 Hajj financing split for 2027 as the estimated cost per pilgrim rises to about 107.3 million rupiah.
Saudi Arabia will fold a compulsory Nusuk meal voucher into the Umrah visa fee, charging 20 riyals per day, with an initial rollout in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Egypt.
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Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit Mecca creating dramatic scenes as worshippers prayed at the Grand Mosque.
Third Group of Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques' Umrah Program Departs Makkah وكالة الأنباء السعودية