Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's rail network carried over 83 million passengers in the first half of 2026, up 16 percent, with the Haramain High-Speed Railway serving around 3.6 million pilgrims and travellers between Makkah and Madinah.
Saudi Arabia's Nusuk platform has surpassed 51 million users and now offers zero-data access, a digital wallet and AI crowd tools for pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia's Public Security has warned that Hajj and Umrah firms face fines of up to SR100,000 for failing to report pilgrims who overstay their authorised period.
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is expanding its fleet with 20 new Talgo trains due by 2028-2031, adding capacity for the millions of pilgrims travelling between Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah.
The General Presidency for the Two Holy Mosques and the MiSK Foundation have opened a sixth innovation contest inviting AI and technology ideas to improve pilgrim services, with a September 16 deadline.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has begun early preparatory meetings with Hajj affairs offices from more than 75 countries ahead of the 2027 season.