Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 10 Nov 2026, 7:39 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has opened licensing applications for companies serving foreign pilgrims in the 1448 AH Hajj season, as updated accommodation standards classify pilgrim housing into Economy and First Class.
Saudi Arabia requires the quadrivalent ACWY meningitis vaccine for all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, with seasonal flu and other vaccines recommended. Here is what pilgrims need for the 2027 season and how to prepare.
Saudi Arabia has opened an early registration-of-interest process on the Nusuk Hajj platform for international pilgrims planning Hajj 2027, though submitting the form is not a confirmed booking.
Saudi Arabia's rail network carried over 83 million passengers in the first half of 2026, up 16 percent, with the Haramain High-Speed Railway serving around 3.6 million pilgrims and travellers between Makkah and Madinah.
More than 340,000 Pakistanis have registered online under the country's first four-year Hajj policy for 2027 to 2030, which lets applicants register once for a pilgrimage in any year up to 2030.
Saudi Arabia has unveiled reforms for the 2027 Hajj season, cutting packages to three tiers, bundling accommodation, transport and catering into one mandatory service model, and requiring training for Hajj office staff abroad.
Journey to Mecca: Millions gather for annual hajj pilgrimage Reuters