Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has begun building an 8.5 million square metre waste processing city south of Mecca, designed to meet the holy city's environmental needs and serve millions of pilgrims for up to 60 years.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission has uncovered more than 1,700 artefacts at Miqat Al Juhfah, a historic station on the ancient Hajj route to Mecca, shedding light on early Islamic pilgrimage networks.
As the 1448 Umrah season opens, pilgrims face summer heat above 40C in Makkah. Sensible timing, hydration, and use of cooling infrastructure keep the rites safe.
India has opened the administrative cycle for Hajj 2027 after receiving Saudi preparation documents, with an advisory urging pilgrims to ready their passports ahead of registration.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims across 10 countries for Hajj 1447, completing entry procedures in about 40 seconds before departure.
Saudi Arabia reopened the 1448 AH Umrah season on May 31, 2026, with Grand Mosque permits now issued only through the Nusuk app and a shorter 30-day visa entry window.
Third Group of Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques' Umrah Program Departs Makkah وكالة الأنباء السعودية
2027 Hajj: Lagos demands more slots Daily Post Nigeria
Gateway Air ready to airlift hajj pilgrims — Abiodun Daily Post Nigeria
Third Group of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Umrah Program Departs Makkah spa.gov.sa
Saudi Arabia ready to host Hajj with 1.5m pilgrims expected Arab News
Wadi Al-Usaylah's Ancient Inscriptions, Historic Wells Trace Early Hajj Routes Near Makkah spa.gov.sa