Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 26 Jun 2026, 5:04 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's rail network carried millions of pilgrims during Hajj 2026, with the Mashair Metro shuttling worshippers between the holy sites and the Haramain high-speed line linking Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah.
Saudi Arabia has set June 30, 2026 as the opening date for Hajj 2027 accommodation reservations and will require Hajj office staff to complete mandatory training before receiving visas, alongside a new three-tier integrated package system.
Saudi Arabia's Hajj 2027 calendar sets a chain of firm deadlines from July 2026 onward, and civil society groups are urging NAHCON to open registration early to avoid recurring delays.
Saudi Arabia's 2027 Hajj rules require 1.5 doctors and 1.7 nurses per 1,000 pilgrims, limit each country to one service provider, and route all contracts and payments through Nusuk.
Pakistan will open mandatory Hajj 2027 registration later this month and has told pilgrims to ensure their passports remain valid until November 16, 2027.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has approved 73 accredited companies to serve domestic pilgrims, urging Hajj-goers to contract only through official channels.
Ministry of Hajj & Umrah Opens Umrah Visas for New Season cairoscene.com
Hajj 2026: NAHCON reschedules airlift of Nigerian Pilgrims back home The Guardian Nigeria News
Nigerian Hajj Commission NAHCON Announces June 3 Return Flights For Pilgrims Sahara Reporters
WHO hails Saudi Arabia’s health measures after safe Hajj season The New Arab
WHO hails Saudi Arabia's health measures after safe Hajj season The New Arab
Journey to Mecca: Scenes from the annual hajj pilgrimage MSN