Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 25 Jun 2026, 12:26 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia deployed its biggest cooling and shading operation in Hajj history for 2026, expanding shaded areas at Arafat fivefold and adding misting systems, reflective paving, drones and AI monitoring to ease extreme heat.
Saudi Arabia has released the Hajj 2027 operational calendar, with registration closing 26 September 2026, visa issuance beginning 28 January 2027, flights from 8 April and Hajj around 15 May 2027.
Bangladesh has published its Hajj 2027 roadmap, asking pilgrims to register by September 26, 2026, with visas starting January 28 and the pilgrimage expected on May 15, 2027.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will open accommodation contracting for the 2027 season on June 30, 2026, as integrated service packages and mandatory staff training take effect.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative concluded its 1447 AH operations after pre-clearing 388,694 pilgrims from 10 countries, adding Senegal and Brunei for the first time.
Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs will open mandatory registration for Hajj 2027 later this month, urging pilgrims to ensure passports are valid until 16 November 2027.