Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's rail network carried more than 83 million passengers in the first half of 2026, up 16 percent, with the Haramain High-Speed Railway moving millions between Makkah and Madinah.
Official GASTAT data shows more than 15.2 million people performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2026, with domestic pilgrims making up nearly two-thirds and international arrivals travelling mostly by air.
Turkey's Diyanet has set its Hajj 2027 fees in US dollars rather than Saudi riyals, with a standard package priced at $9,200, drawing internal criticism over a roughly 41 percent increase as nearly 1.88 million people entered the lottery for 84,942 places.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has approved updated licensing and classification standards for Hajj accommodation in Makkah and Madinah ahead of Hajj 1448, introducing Economy and First Class categories and multi-stage inspections.
Pakistan collected over $208 million in Hajj 2027 dues within five days as its government scheme filled rapidly, while private operators were given an August 31 deadline to activate packages or risk losing their quota.
Saudi Arabia has opened the sixth edition of its "Think for the Two Holy Mosques" innovation programme, inviting AI and technology ideas to improve services at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi, with a September 16, 2026 deadline.
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