Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Jun 2026, 1:40 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has begun building an 8.5 million square metre waste processing city south of Mecca, designed to meet the holy city's environmental needs and serve millions of pilgrims for up to 60 years.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission has uncovered more than 1,700 artefacts at Miqat Al Juhfah, a historic station on the ancient Hajj route to Mecca, shedding light on early Islamic pilgrimage networks.
As the 1448 Umrah season opens, pilgrims face summer heat above 40C in Makkah. Sensible timing, hydration, and use of cooling infrastructure keep the rites safe.
India has opened the administrative cycle for Hajj 2027 after receiving Saudi preparation documents, with an advisory urging pilgrims to ready their passports ahead of registration.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims across 10 countries for Hajj 1447, completing entry procedures in about 40 seconds before departure.
Saudi Arabia reopened the 1448 AH Umrah season on May 31, 2026, with Grand Mosque permits now issued only through the Nusuk app and a shorter 30-day visa entry window.
The Hajj ceasefire the Middle East never expected Middle East Monitor
The Hajj ceasefire the Middle East never expected Middle East Monitor
Saudi Arabia urges pilgrims not to share shaving tools after Hajj rites Gulf News
Pilgrims move between Mina and Makkah as Eid-day Hajj rituals continue smoothly Arab News
Saudi Arabia Hajj Religion News Service
Hajj pilgrims perform rituals in soaring heat as Eid al-Adha celebrations begin dailyadvance.com