Saudi Arabia approves unified national visa platform
Saudi Arabia's Cabinet has approved a unified national visa platform under the Foreign Ministry to issue and manage all visas, part of a wider digital transformation drive.
Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Cabinet has approved a unified national visa platform under the Foreign Ministry to issue and manage all visas, part of a wider digital transformation drive.
Saudi Arabia's priority reservation window for Hajj 2027 accommodation in Makkah and Madinah runs until August 13, 2026, as the Kingdom rolls out an integrated service model.
Saudi Arabia is introducing a mandatory Nusuk meal voucher that will add 20 Saudi riyals per day to the cost of an Umrah visa, starting with pilgrims from four countries.
For the 1448 Umrah season, Saudi Arabia requires verified hotel and transport bookings before a visa is issued and a full pre-arrival data submission before an entry permit is granted.
Saudi Arabia has released its Hajj 1448 (2027) calendar, setting a 26 September 2026 registration deadline and firm windows for package agreements, payments, visa issuance and travel.
Nigeria's NAHCON has begun diplomatic talks to restore its Hajj quota to 95,000 for 2027 after only about 50,000 pilgrims travelled in 2026, alongside reforms to contracts, accommodation and airlift planning.
Singapore to get 900 slots for Haj 2027; pilgrims to undergo enhanced medical assessment The Straits Times
Transport minister highlights seamless Hajj travel as Makkah Route flights arrive Arab News
Makkah Region mayor reviews Saudi Red Crescent’s preparedness for Hajj arabnews.com
Hajj and Umrah Research Institute Showcases Research and Expertise at 26th Scientific Forum وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Hail hub receives Iraqi pilgrims as Saudi Arabia scales up Hajj 2026 operations Arab News
Hajj 2026: Pilgrims gather at Mount of Mercy on the plain of Arafat for most sacred stage of Hajj Arab News