Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 13 Sep 2026, 11:08 AM (Saudi time)
Official statistics show 15,233,767 pilgrims performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2026, with air travel carrying most international arrivals, as Saudi Arabia manages the 1448 AH season calendar.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission has discovered a granite-built mosque dating to the first century of the Islamic calendar at Al Maallamah in Baha, alongside artefacts illuminating early Islamic life.
Saudi Arabia has opened early preparations for Hajj 2027 with more than 75 countries, unveiling an integrated accommodation, transport and catering package, three restructured tiers and compulsory staff training.
Pakistan's Hajj 2027 registration has drawn a huge early response, passing 100,000 sign-ups in five days against a national quota of 179,210, managed through a new paperless digital system.
Several countries face late-September 2026 deadlines to register and submit pilgrim data for the 2027 Hajj, as Saudi Arabia pushes earlier digital processing through Nusuk and Nusuk-Masar.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa, valid 365 days with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, to ease repeat pilgrimages.
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