Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 22 Sep 2026, 9:49 AM (Saudi time)
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah now requires all Hajj 2027 pilgrims to upload medical certificates to Nusuk before visa approval, with the quadruple meningitis vaccine mandatory and polio, yellow fever and flu jabs required or advised.
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is expanding its fleet with 20 new Talgo trains due by 2028-2031, adding capacity for the millions of pilgrims travelling between Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah.
Saudi Arabia's Third Expansion of the Grand Mosque is advancing as part of a wider transformation of Makkah and Madinah aimed at hosting tens of millions of pilgrims annually under Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia has approved stricter accommodation regulations for Hajj 2027, classifying facilities as economy or first-class and adding inspections before and during the season.
Pakistan's religious affairs ministry says it collected more than $208 million in Hajj 2027 dues in five days as digital payments drive strong early demand.
The General Presidency for the Two Holy Mosques and the MiSK Foundation have opened a sixth innovation contest inviting AI and technology ideas to improve pilgrim services, with a September 16 deadline.
Makkah hosts tour to help global operators diversify Umrah packages Arab News
Photos show Muslim pilgrims in Mecca as annual Hajj pilgrimage ends Houston Chronicle
Crown prince salutes Hajj workforce at Eid reception in Mina アラブニュース
Muslim pilgrims converge on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia as the Hajj reaches its peak apnews.com
Accor Makkah launches ‘Holy Destinations’ to unify booking processes for Hajj, Umrah Hotelier Middle East