Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has banned entry, including for Umrah pilgrims, from the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan over an Ebola outbreak, with extra health screening for travellers from four nearby countries.
Bangladesh has released its Hajj 2027 roadmap, asking pilgrims to register by September 26, 2026, with visas issued from January 2027 and Hajj expected on May 15, 2027.
Saudi Arabia has opened Hajj 2027 service tenders to qualified local and international companies, with expressions of interest due by October 30, 2026.
Pakistan has introduced online Hajj payments through its 1LINK interbank network as registrations for Hajj 2027 surpassed 150,000, advancing a fully digital pilgrimage system.
Pilgrims preparing for Hajj 2027 must meet Saudi Arabia's health requirements, including a mandatory meningococcal ACYW vaccine, alongside recommended flu, pneumococcal and COVID-19 shots.
Saudi Arabia's statistics authority GASTAT confirmed 1,707,301 pilgrims performed Hajj in 2026, detailing arrivals by origin, gender, and travel mode, a modest rise over 2025.
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