Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Sep 2026, 11:04 AM (Saudi time)
For the 1448 season, Saudi Arabia has cut the Umrah visa entry window to 30 days, made Nusuk-linked hotel and transport bookings mandatory before issuance, and allowed holders of all visa types to perform Umrah.
Saudi Arabia recorded 931,500 Umrah arrivals from the start of the 1448 season to the end of Muharram, a 22.5 percent rise year on year, led by pilgrims from Pakistan, Indonesia and Iraq.
New 1448-season regulations cap organised Umrah programs at 15 days, with an exception allowing up to 35 days for trips between 15 Sha'ban and 17 Ramadan.
The Nusuk app now offers AI-based crowd alerts, a colour-coded gate capacity system and zero-data access for the 2026 Umrah season, with bookings and permits tied directly to the visa process.
Egypt has approved new 1448 AH Umrah regulations requiring pilgrim ID cards, GPS tracking of buses inside Saudi Arabia, and stricter program length limits.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to use its digital Umrah and Visit Guide, now available in 16 languages and covering every stage of the journey from visa to departure.
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