Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 12 Nov 2026, 10:00 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a comprehensive package for Hajj 1448 AH (2027), letting overseas agencies contract accommodation, transport, catering and holy-site services through the Al-Masar electronic platform in a single request.
Indonesia's government has proposed raising the 2027 Hajj cost to about Rp107.34 million per pilgrim, up nearly Rp19.93 million, reopening a debate over subsidies for a 5.5 million-strong waiting list.
Malaysia's Tabung Haji will open appeals for the 2027 Hajj season on October 2, with a RM15,000 minimum savings balance and a new Seruan Istito'ah plan offering automatic queue placement.
Bangladesh has closed registration for the 2027 Hajj season with a quota of 78,500 pilgrims, holding firmly to a September 24 deadline that will not be extended.
Airport health authorities in Pakistan have set September 25, 2026 as the date a digital, database-linked vaccination certificate becomes required for Umrah pilgrims, covering polio, meningitis, yellow fever and influenza.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched Direct Umrah, a unified digital booking route that links pilgrims at home and abroad to approved packages through five authorized travel platforms.
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