Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 29 Jul 2026, 11:19 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has discontinued the budget Package D and restructured Hajj 2027 services into three regulated tiers, introducing a mandatory integrated package and compulsory training for Hajj personnel.
Saudi Arabia deployed its largest-ever cooling and shading infrastructure for the 1447 Hajj, one of the last summer pilgrimages before the calendar shifts the season into cooler months from 2027.
Saudi Arabia announced designated Rawdah visiting times at the Prophet's Mosque, with men and women given separate windows and access booked through the Nusuk app.
Saudi Arabia's official Nusuk pilgrimage app has passed 51 million users across more than 190 countries, consolidating over 130 services for Hajj and Umrah travellers.
Saudi Arabia confirmed the Muharram crescent sighting, marking June 16, 2026, as the first day of the Islamic year 1448 AH, with Ashura falling on June 25.
New carriers and routes, including a flynas Jeddah-Rabat link, Mukhtara Air in Indonesia and resumed Uzbekistan flights, are expanding air access for Umrah pilgrims in the 2026 season.
Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa Gulf Business
Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa Gulf Business
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa Gulf News
Climate advocate Mina Hasman’s vision of designing cities that behave like forests and buildings that act like trees.
Investigators arrest 31-year-old man identified as Charles Medina in connection with death of Rapp who was 26US boxer Hannah Rapp, who in June fought for the World Boxing Council women’s featherweight championship, was killed on Saturday while she bicycled in Texas after a motorist struck her with...
Saudi Arabia Accelerates Makkah Tourism Transformation With New Ibis Hotel Development Strengthening Umrah Travel Growth, Pilgrimage Infrastructure and Year Round Hospitality Capacity Travel And Tour World