Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Sep 2026, 10:12 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has made completion of an official training programme a legal condition for Hajj staff to obtain visas and permits, alongside a unified service-package model and a contracting timeline that opened on June 30 for the 2027 season.
For the 1448 AH season, Umrah pilgrims must confirm hotel and transport bookings through Nusuk before a visa is issued, and entry visas now expire 30 days after issuance.
The Royal Commission for Makkah City has secured approval to build the city's first international-standard airport, while feasibility studies for a Makkah Metro are complete.
The Prophet's Mosque in Madinah has expanded its integrated digital services, including real-time prayer-area monitoring, smart indoor maps, and multi-language sermon translation.
The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites has awarded contracts to redevelop seven districts across 4.4 million square meters at a cost of $4.3 billion.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior concluded the eighth edition of the Makkah Route Initiative, pre-clearing 388,694 pilgrims in their home countries across 10 nations.
MOI warns of SR100,000 fine for transporting visit visa holders to Makkah during Hajj season Saudi Gazette
Ministry sets up 32 children’s hospitality centers in Makkah and Madinah Arab News
Ramadan: Mecca, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors The Business Standard
194,000 pilgrims in Madinah post-Hajj Arab News