Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Iran has resumed Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia after a six-month suspension, sending 18,000 pilgrims in the first phase while around five million voucher holders remain on the waiting list.
Saudi authorities have advised Umrah pilgrims that the Grand Mosque is quietest from 10pm to 4am and 9am to 4pm, while the evening hours of 5pm to 9pm are busiest.
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.
Saudi Arabia has launched a 365-day multiple-entry Umrah visa allowing up to 90 cumulative days of stay, though pilgrims must book a Nusuk package and permit for every visit.
Saudi Arabia recorded a 22.5% rise in Umrah visa arrivals at the start of the 1448 AH season, with 931,500 pilgrims entering the Kingdom, led by Pakistan, Indonesia and Iraq.
Saudi Arabia's digital overhaul of the Grand Mosque has cut pilgrim transport waits from two hours to nine minutes and now manages 38 million iftar meals digitally, part of a push to make the site among the world's smartest by 2030.