Hajj 2026 Live Blog: Permits, Visas & Travel Updates

The Deputy Amir of Makkah Region received the final performance assessment report for government agencies involved in implementing the general emergency plan for Hajj 1447H. The evaluation included detailed emergency plan reviews, field visits to multiple agencies across Makkah and the Sacred Sites, and observation of emergency drills and exercises to ensure pilgrim safety and crowd management readiness.

Dr. Salem Areja, supervisor of the Hadaya Thown initiative, announced that the program serves as an innovative space for developing quality solutions that enrich the spiritual experience of pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques. The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's continued care for the Grand Mosque and Prophet's Mosque and those who visit them. Hadaya Thown focuses on creating tailored services and innovations to support pilgrim comfort and engagement.

Wizz Air has announced its return to the Gulf region, including Jeddah, with 12 routes and 49 weekly flights across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Amman. The airline suspended its Abu Dhabi base operation in September 2025 but is now re-entering key regional markets. Pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia can book these routes immediately on the airline's platform.

Saudi Arabia's General Directorate of Civil Defence has issued a weather alert for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and potential flash floods across several regions, including the Mecca region, from Wednesday through Monday. The National Centre for Meteorology warns that parts of Mecca may experience moderate to heavy rainfall with hail and strong downdrafts. Pilgrims and residents are urged to avoid valleys and flood-prone areas, and to follow official safety instructions.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman has presented a section of the Holy Kaaba's Kiswa belt to the Arab League as a gift. This gesture honors the sacred cloth that covers the Kaaba, one of Islam's most revered symbols at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

The Saudi Council of Ministers reviewed reports on international conferences hosted by the Kingdom, highlighting the success of the 26th Scientific Forum for Hajj, Umrah and Pilgrimage Research. The forum's outputs are expected to strengthen coordination among Hajj and Umrah authorities, enhance partnerships, improve service quality for pilgrims, and support evidence-based decision-making across the pilgrimage system.

Former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has shared a photo from the Grand Mosque in Makkah while performing Umrah, wearing ihram. The 38-year-old posted the image with the caption "Alhamdulillah for everything," reflecting on his spiritual journey as his football career transitions continue following his departure from Al Hilal.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has requested pilgrims to refrain from smoking in the courtyards of the Two Holy Mosques out of respect for these sacred sites. The advisory emphasizes reverence for Makkah and Madinah's sanctified spaces.

The third group of 250 pilgrims under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit has arrived in Makkah after spending several days in Madinah. The program continues to welcome international pilgrims for the sacred seasons.

Under the direction of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Saudi Arabia has presented a fragment of the Kaaba Kiswa (the sacred cloth covering the Kaaba) as a gift to the Secretary-General of the Arab League. This symbolic gesture honors the importance of the holy site and Islamic heritage.

flynas, Saudi Arabia's low-cost carrier, is recruiting cabin crew members for positions based in Madinah. Career fair recruitment events are scheduled for September 27–28, 2026. This is an opportunity for aviation professionals to join a team serving pilgrims and travelers to the holy cities.

The Makkah Region Islamic Affairs Authority announced the arrival of 250 male and female pilgrims from 23 African countries as part of the third batch of guests under the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Guest Programme for Umrah and Ziyarah for the year 1448 AH. The programme continues to facilitate international pilgrims' access to the holy sites.

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) marked the inaugural Hajj and Umrah Service Day with remarks from the Deputy Minister, emphasizing the spiritual journey, trust, and national commitment to supporting pilgrims. The announcement underscores Indonesia's dedication to pilgrim welfare during the annual sacred seasons.

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah celebrated the first day of its dedicated services on September 8, 2026. The ministry announced its establishment to better support Indonesian pilgrims undertaking Hajj and Umrah journeys. This marks a significant institutional development for coordinating pilgrim logistics, visa processing, and on-ground support.

Over 270,000 travelers are stranded in Indonesia following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which forced the suspension of operations at 8 airports. Jakarta's main airport and three other airports have since resumed operations. Pilgrims traveling to or from Saudi Arabia via Indonesian gateways may experience delays and rerouting.

Under the patronage of Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and Prophet's Mosque is organizing the "Hackathon Hidayah" (Guidance Forum) from September 8–10, 2026, at Jeddah University. The initiative aims to enhance religious guidance services for pilgrims and worshippers.

Malaysia Airlines flight MH156 from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah, carrying 186 passengers, made an emergency landing at Chennai airport after Engine No. 2 failed. The aircraft landed safely at 4:44 PM IST with all passengers unharmed. Pilgrims and Umrah travelers should monitor flight updates and check with their airlines for any schedule adjustments.

flyadeal has announced a new flight route connecting Madinah to Karachi, Pakistan. The airline is offering promotional fares for early bookings on this pilgrim-friendly route, enabling easier travel for Pakistani pilgrims departing from the holy city after Umrah or Hajj.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a satisfaction survey to gather feedback from pilgrims on services provided during their journey. Pilgrims are encouraged to participate in the survey via the Nusuk platform to help improve services for future guests of the Merciful.

flyadeal has inaugurated its first direct flight from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah to Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, strengthening air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Karachi is now served directly from three Saudi cities: Jeddah, Riyadh, and Madinah, marking flyadeal's third route to the Pakistani city. This expansion provides pilgrims and travelers from Pakistan with additional convenient options for reaching the holy cities.

The Federation of Saudi Chambers Chairman Abdullah Saleh Kamel has highlighted how Saudi Arabia's long-standing commitment to security has made the Hajj journey safer and more accessible. This enhanced security framework has enabled millions of Muslims from around the world to perform the pilgrimage with greater ease.

A group of 250 Umrah pilgrims visited the Uhud Martyrs' Cemetery, Mount Uhud, and Quba Mosque as part of a cultural program in Madinah. The visits are part of enrichment activities offered to pilgrims during their Umrah journey, connecting them to significant Islamic historical sites beyond the two holy mosques.

flyadeal has inaugurated its first flight to Karachi, with service departing from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Madinah to Jinnah International Airport in Karachi. This new route strengthens air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, expanding regional and international network links for travelers and pilgrims.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has shared guidance on staying hydrated during the Umrah journey. Regular hydration helps replace lost fluids and maintains comfort throughout the pilgrimage, especially important given the climate conditions in the holy city during peak seasons.

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued red alerts for heavy rain and thunderstorms capable of causing flash floods in Makkah, Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha on Sunday. The Civil Defense urges pilgrims and residents to exercise caution, follow official guidance, and avoid gatherings near water accumulations, wadi beds, and flood-prone areas.

flyadeal, the Saudia Group low-cost carrier, has inaugurated a new route between Madinah and Karachi with two weekly flights. The service operates using Airbus A320neo aircraft with 186 all-economy seats, USB charging ports, and enhanced cabin features. This expands flyadeal's Pakistan network to seven routes and makes Karachi the second Saudi city after Riyadh connected to the airline's international network from Madinah.

Saudi Civil Defense has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall across Makkah, Al-Baha, Jizan, and Asir regions. Pilgrims and visitors in these areas are urged to exercise caution and care during the alert period. Weather conditions may affect pilgrim movement and access to holy sites.

The Saudi General Directorate of Passports has announced that pilgrims can now register and obtain a digital visitor identity through the Absher platform. This official document enables pilgrims to move freely within the Kingdom during their Hajj or Umrah journey.

The Civil Defense in the Makkah Region has issued a weather advisory, urging residents and pilgrims to exercise caution and follow official guidance due to adverse weather conditions affecting parts of the region. Pilgrims are advised to monitor updates from local authorities.

Saudi Arabia's Civil Defense has issued a weather alert urging caution and adherence to safety guidelines for Makkah, Asir, Jizan, and Al-Baha regions due to ongoing atmospheric conditions. Pilgrims and residents in these areas are advised to follow official instructions during the weather event.