Grand Mosque expansion advances as King Salman Gate takes shape
Saudi Arabia is advancing major expansion works at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, raising capacity toward 1.85 million worshippers, alongside the vast new King Salman Gate project.
Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia is advancing major expansion works at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, raising capacity toward 1.85 million worshippers, alongside the vast new King Salman Gate project.
Saudi Arabia has begun early preparations for the 1448 AH Hajj, introducing integrated service packages, mandatory staff training and a restructured three-tier package system.
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Egypt's Interior Ministry will receive Hajj al-Qura lottery applications for the 2027 season from 12 to 27 August 2026, as Prime Minister Madbouly orders early completion of travel, accommodation and medical arrangements.
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Indonesia has proposed raising its 2027 Hajj cost to about Rp107.34 million per pilgrim and shifting to a 60:40 subsidy split, with the government fund covering 60 percent and pilgrims 40 percent.
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