Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has ordered 20 new Talgo high-speed trains for the Haramain railway, expanding the fleet to 55 units and boosting pilgrim transport capacity between Makkah and Madinah, with delivery from 2028 to 2031.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has enabled the Nusuk app to work without mobile data, in partnership with stc, Mobily, and Zain, keeping permits, tickets, and navigation available to pilgrims even offline.
Saudi Arabia has scrapped Hajj Package D and restructured offerings into three tiers, making bundled accommodation, transport, and catering mandatory for 2027 pilgrims, alongside compulsory operator training.
The Haj Committee of India extended its Hajj 2027 application deadline to July 24 and set the digital selection draw for July 30, with selected pilgrims required to pay the advance amount by August 10.
Saudi authorities have launched a QR-based service at the Grand Mosque in Makkah that shows real-time crowd levels in the Mataf and Masa'a, helping pilgrims choose calmer routes for Tawaf and Sa'i.
Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais has launched a Field Services Center at the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah to improve services for visitors during the 1448 AH Umrah and visitation season, strengthening coordination among agencies and field response.
Saudi Bus Accident: Mecca To Madinah Journey Turns Tragic For Indian Umrah Pilgrims, 42 Feared Dead zeenews.india.com