Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 Jun 2026, 7:00 PM (Saudi time)
Pilgrims from around 66 eligible countries can apply directly for an Umrah visa through Nusuk, while travellers elsewhere must use a licensed agent, with hotel booking now required before applying.
Saudi health authorities say the 2026 Hajj concluded with no epidemiological outbreaks and no major crowd accidents, crediting heat mitigation, AI-guided pathways, and a large medical deployment.
Saudi Arabia has restructured Hajj 2027 service packages into three tiers, scrapping the long-standing Package D and tying accommodation, transport, and catering into unified contracts.
A pure gold plaque that once crowned the gate of the Holy Kaaba more than three centuries ago is now on display at the Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques Architecture in Makkah.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission and the University of Exeter uncovered more than 1,700 artefacts at the historic Al Juhfah miqat, including kilns, a water channel and Umayyad and Abbasid-era tombstones.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched the Masar Nusuk digital service to automate Umrah contracting for the 1448 AH season, using unified electronic contracts with QR-code verification.
Saudi Arabia begins pilgrim departures as Hajj 2026 draws to a close Arab News
Hajj 2026: Flynas begins airlift of Ogun, Kebbi pilgrims back to Nigeria The Guardian Nigeria News
Saudi Arabia Hajj Religion News Service
Saudi Arabia Hajj Religion News Service
Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites Concludes Hajj 1447 AH Operations وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Beyond Hajj: Saudi Arabia’s key global achievements in May 2026 MSN