Kaaba Draped in New Kiswa as Hijri Year 1448 Begins
The Holy Kaaba received its new Kiswa at the start of the Islamic year 1448 AH, made by Saudi craftsmen from 47 silk panels weighing about 1,415 kilograms and embroidered with gold thread.
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Saudi Arabia Sets Hajj 2027 Preparation Calendar on Masar Nusuk
Saudi Arabia has published its Hajj 2027 preparation calendar on the Masar Nusuk platform, with service package agreements opening July 29, 2026, visas from January 28, 2027, and flights beginning April 8, 2027.
Saudi Arabia Makes Personnel Training Mandatory for Hajj 2027 Operations
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.
Umrah Visas Now Require Confirmed Nusuk Bookings and Expire in 30 Days
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.
Makkah Gains Approval for First International Airport and Metro
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.
Prophet's Mosque Expands Digital Services for Visitors in Madinah
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.