Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 5 Nov 2026, 8:32 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Hajj and Umrah Ministry says no new Umrah requirements have been added, while expanding options through a multiple-entry visa, wider online booking and AI tools. Officials also reported 32,000 inspection tours and 21 company suspensions.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched Direct Umrah, a digital service letting pilgrims at home and abroad book approved Umrah packages online through authorized travel platforms.
The Umrah 1448 AH season is drawing to a close. Saudi Arabia set September 23 as the final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom and April 7, 2027 as the final date to depart.
Investigators in Pakistan recovered the full sum lost by a victim of Umrah visa fraud, as governments warn pilgrims to avoid fake offers and book only through licensed operators and official platforms.
Official statistics show more than 15.2 million pilgrims performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2026, with air travel carrying the vast majority of international arrivals.
Pakistan has deferred enforcement of its new NADRA-linked digital vaccination card for Umrah pilgrims until September 25, after airport authorities warned the system was not ready for immediate rollout.
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Fourth Group of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Umrah and Visit Program Performs Umrah وكالة الأنباء السعودية
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
Is Umrah 2026 Still Happening? What Pilgrims Need to Know Right Now Wego Travel Blog
Nasrullah set out for Umrah, but never reached Makkah The Daily Star