Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Sep 2026, 11:04 AM (Saudi time)
India's Haj Policy 2027 introduces an AI assistant offering round-the-clock multilingual support, automated document checks and real-time grievance tracking, alongside a better inspector-to-pilgrim ratio.
Saudi Arabia deported 12,292 residency, labour and border violators in one week, arresting 15,591 people between June 25 and July 1, a reminder for pilgrims to travel only on valid visas and leave before they expire.
With the 1448 AH Umrah season running through peak summer, authorities urge pilgrims to guard against extreme Makkah heat now topping 42C, using cooler worship windows, hydration and the Grand Mosque's cooling systems.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says its Nusuk app has passed 30 million downloads, a 150 percent annual rise, with users from more than 190 countries.
Saudi Arabia's statistics authority confirmed 1,707,301 pilgrims performed Hajj in 2026, with 1,546,655 arriving from abroad and the vast majority entering by air.
Saudi Arabia will require personnel in Hajj affairs offices to complete compulsory training as a condition for obtaining Hajj visas and permits, part of a wider service overhaul.