Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Bangladesh has opened Hajj 2027 pre-registration for Non-Resident Bangladeshi citizens through its e-Hajj system, with primary registration inside the country set to begin on 27 July 2026.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa allowing repeat visits with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, linked to the Nusuk platform.
Saudi Arabia welcomed 931,500 Umrah pilgrims in the opening weeks of the 1448 AH season, a 22.5 percent rise, with Pakistan, Indonesia, and Iraq sending the most pilgrims.
Signing of Hajj 2027 service-package agreements through the Masar Nusuk platform begins July 29 and runs to January 23, covering tents, accommodation, catering and transport.
Saudi Arabia has launched an Electronic Travel Authorization for UK citizens allowing multiple entries and stays of up to 180 days, and it can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season.
Saudi Arabia has introduced a Tourist Package Visa that combines the entry permit with flights, accommodation and trip planning in a single booking, with Umrah permitted outside the Hajj season.
Can You Perform Umrah Now? The 1448 AH Season Status Wego Travel Blog
The Iran-aligned militant group rejected the suggestion it had targeted Mecca, while the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation condemned the attackSaudi Arabia’s air defences intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday before it entered prohibited airspace over the holy cit...
Saudi-led coalition intercepts Houthi drone headed for Mecca Al Jazeera
Saudi Arabia says it intercepted a drone before it entered Islam's holiest city, calling pilgrims' security a 'red line'
Saudi Arabia has intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone that was heading toward Mecca.
Maldivians in Makkah are safe: Shaheem edition.mv