Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 10 Nov 2026, 7:39 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Public Security has warned that Hajj and Umrah companies face fines of up to SR100,000 for failing to report pilgrims who overstay, with the penalty rising for each unreported case.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has begun preparatory meetings with Hajj offices in over 75 countries to plan the 1448 AH season.
Pakistan is placing all Hajj 2027 bookings under Ministry of Religious Affairs oversight, with a new digital system, four-year registration and a 179,210 quota.
Saudi Arabia welcomed 931,500 Umrah-visa pilgrims at the start of the 1448 season, a 22.5 percent rise led by Pakistan, Indonesia and Iraq.
Indonesia will require all 2027 Hajj officials to complete military-style barracks training, a 30-day programme aimed at improving discipline and service after years of pilgrim complaints.
Saudi Arabia's new multiple-entry Umrah visa is valid for 365 days with a 90-day total stay, but pilgrims must enter within 30 days and still book a Nusuk package and permit for each visit.
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