Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Jun 2026, 1:40 AM (Saudi time)
Pakistan will open mandatory registration for Hajj 2027 later this month, requiring a passport valid until November 16, 2027. The country holds a quota of 179,210 pilgrims across government and private schemes.
Pakistan's federal cabinet has approved a Private Hajj Policy for 2027-2030, replacing quotas with a performance-based, fully digital and cashless system.
Saudi Arabia is enforcing strict health eligibility rules for Hajj, barring pilgrims with serious chronic conditions and requiring proof that applicants can perform the rituals independently.
India has opened the administrative cycle for Hajj 2027 after receiving Saudi preparation documents, with an advisory urging pilgrims to ready their passports ahead of registration.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims across 10 countries for Hajj 1447, completing entry procedures in about 40 seconds before departure.
Saudi Arabia has eliminated the budget Package D for Hajj 2027 and consolidated offerings into three regulated tiers, making integrated accommodation, transport, and catering contracts mandatory for all operators.
Saudi Arabia declares full readiness for Hajj as pilgrims prepare to flock to Mina Monday Saudi Gazette
Million gather in Makkah as hajj begins The Daily Star
APTOPIX Saudi Arabia Hajj Idaho State Journal
APTOPIX Saudi Arabia Hajj The Herald Journal
Journey of a lifetime: A look at what pilgrims will be doing over the next few days at Hajj Arab News
Saudi Arabia Hajj Bluefield Daily Telegraph