Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has restructured Hajj 2027 packages into three categories, discontinued Package D, and made accommodation, transport, and catering mandatory under a new integrated service model.
More than 232,000 Pakistanis registered for Hajj 2027 in the first two weeks of a new fully digital, mandatory registration system that allows families to apply jointly.
Saudi Arabia has opened a priority reservation window running from 30 June to 13 August 2026 for Hajj operators to secure Makkah and Madinah accommodation, alongside a new mandatory unified service package and compulsory staff training for the 2027 season.
Indonesia has launched a formal review of its 2026 Hajj operation, citing lower pilgrim costs, pre-departure Nusuk Cards and a 25 percent fall in deaths, while flagging healthcare and conditions in Mina as priorities for reform.
Astronomers say the Hajj is moving out of peak summer heat into milder spring and winter seasons for roughly 25 years, easing conditions for pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia General Authority for Statistics has confirmed that 1,707,301 pilgrims performed Hajj 2026, with a detailed register-based breakdown by nationality, arrival method, gender, and workforce.
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia declines Nigeria’s request for additional slots Tribune Online
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia rejects Nigeria’s request for more slots Punch Newspapers
Makkah Mayoralty opens applications for Hajj 2027 catering contract Saudi Gazette
First Hajj Flight from Malaysia Heads to Saudi Arabia under Makkah Route Initiative spa.gov.sa
Makkah Municipality Begins Receiving Applications to Qualify Catering Contractors for Hajj 1448 AH spa.gov.sa
Makkah governor thanks everyone who helped make Hajj 2018 a success Arab News