Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has announced Hajj 2027 reforms that make operator staff training compulsory, bundle accommodation, transport, and catering into a unified package, and cut Hajj packages to three tiers.
The World Health Organization has praised Saudi Arabia for delivering an epidemic-free Hajj 1447 (2026) season, calling the Kingdom a global benchmark in pilgrim health protection.
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.
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