Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 5 Nov 2026, 8:32 AM (Saudi time)
New Umrah rules for 2026-2027 make Nusuk registration mandatory for all pilgrims, cut entry visa validity to 30 days, and require confirmed hotel and transport bookings before a visa is issued.
Pilgrims travelling for Umrah or Hajj in 2026 must present a valid meningococcal ACWY certificate, with polio and yellow fever vaccines required for travellers from affected countries and flu vaccination strongly advised.
Saudi Arabia's 1448 AH Umrah season is under way, with visas issued from May 31, 2026, final visa issuance on March 9, 2027, last entry March 23, and departure by April 7, 2027.
EASA has warned airlines to avoid Iraqi and Iranian airspace until 31 August 2026, a measure that may lengthen and reroute flights for Umrah pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia.
For the 1448 AH season, Saudi Arabia has cut Umrah entry visa validity to 30 days, made confirmed Nusuk bookings a condition of visa approval, and made all visa types eligible to perform Umrah.
King Salman has begun hosting 1,000 Umrah pilgrims worldwide at his personal expense, with the first of four phases welcoming 250 pilgrims from 16 Asian countries under the royal guest program.
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Malaysia urges citizens to postpone Umrah trips as Indonesia calls for vigilance after deadly Saudi airport attacks CNA
Malaysians advised to postpone umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia amid security concerns The Straits Times
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