Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has set a November 8, 2026 deadline for bilateral Hajj agreements and airline contracts for the 2027 pilgrimage, with airlift documentation on the Nusuk Masar platform to be completed between July 29 and November 8, 2026.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has opened applications for local and international companies to provide accommodation, catering and transport services to overseas pilgrims for Hajj 2027, with expressions of interest due by October 30, 2026.
As the 1448 Umrah season opens, pilgrims are reminded that Saudi Arabia requires a quadrivalent meningococcal vaccination certificate and may require polio or yellow fever proof, alongside practical health precautions for the crowded journey.
India released its Haj Policy 2027 on June 22 and opened pilgrim applications, keeping the 70:30 quota split, adding Kolkata as an embarkation point and introducing AI assistance and stricter medical screening.
Bangladesh's Ministry of Religious Affairs has released its Hajj 2027 roadmap, asking prospective pilgrims to complete registration by September 26 and outlining key dates through to the pilgrimage in May 2027.
Saudi Arabia has restructured Hajj 2027 service options into three categories, discontinuing the budget Package D and making bundled accommodation, transport and catering mandatory for pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia rejects Nigeria’s request for extra 2027 Hajj slots Blueprint Newspapers
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia declines Nigeria’s request for additional slots Tribune Online
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia declines Nigeria’s request for additional slots Tribune Online
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia rejects Nigeria’s request for more slots Punch Newspapers
Makkah Mayoralty opens applications for Hajj 2027 catering contract Saudi Gazette
First Hajj Flight from Malaysia Heads to Saudi Arabia under Makkah Route Initiative spa.gov.sa