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News for pilgrims

Visa rules, Nusuk and Rawdah changes, transport and season dates — short, with what it means for your trip.

  • Camels in AlUla's Heritage: Ships of the Desert in Modern Tourism

    Camels in AlUla's Heritage: Ships of the Desert in Modern Tourism

    ALULA — From carrying Arabs across blistering deserts to providing sustenance through milk and warmth through wool, and even contributing to the economic growth of an entire nation, camels have been an integral part of life on the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. It is therefore only fitting that Saudi Arabia honors one of the most iconic animals in its culture and history on World Camel Day. Observed annually on June 22, World Camel Day highlights the deep connection between camels and AlUla, as well as the governorate’s efforts to preserve the heritage closely associated with the animal. **m

  • Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Market to Foreigners

    Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Market to Foreigners

    JEDDAH — The Saudi Council of Ministers approved on Tuesday the Executive Regulation of the Law of Real Estate Ownership by Non-Saudis. The Cabinet session, chaired by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, in Jeddah also endorsed the geographic areas designated for non-Saudi property ownership.Earlier, in January this year, the law regulating non-Saudis’ ownership of real estate has entered into force, after completing the necessary procedures following its publication in the official gazette in July 2025. The landmark law permits non-Saudis, whether individuals or companies, to own a

  • Rare Manuscript Quran: A Family Treasure

    Rare Manuscript Quran: A Family Treasure

    A RARE MANUSCRIPT QURAN PASSED DOWN IN A FAMILY FOR GENERATIONS A Reddit user shared photos of an ancient handwritten Quran that has been preserved in their family for many generations. The Mushaf contains the full text of the Holy Quran, all handwritten in ink, with diacritics preserved using red and other colors for ease of reading. Particular interest lies in the book's binding, crafted in the traditions of the Maghreb. The soft leather cover is adorned with embossing and features a characteristic flap that wraps around the book and secures it in a closed position. In the center is an almond-shaped ornament—one of the classic elements of North African Quran bindings. The manuscript shows significant wear over time, indicating its use.

  • The Royal Reserve Discovered 34 New Bird Species

    The Royal Reserve Discovered 34 New Bird Species

    RIYADH — The King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority announced a significant environmental achievement during the first half of 2026, recording 34 new bird species added for the first time to the reserve's biodiversity list. This raises the total number of recorded bird species to 225—a 15 percent increase in the reserve's documented avian diversity. The authority explained that this achievement stems from continuous improvement in field monitoring efficiency and comprehensive geographic coverage within the reserve's boundaries, enhancing the accuracy of biodiversity documentation.

  • Saudi Arabia Opens Registration for Hajj 2027 Operators

    Saudi Arabia Opens Registration for Hajj 2027 Operators

    SAUDI ARABIA HAS STARTED ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FROM COMPANIES TO SERVE PILGRIMS FOR HAJJ 2027 The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has opened applications for companies wishing to obtain a license to serve foreign pilgrims during the Hajj 2027 season. Applications can be submitted from July 6 to July 10, 2026, through the electronic platform ehaj.haj.gov.sa. Two categories of companies can apply: hotel companies with a valid license from the Ministry of Tourism and a rating of at least 4 stars, as well as national airlines. Additionally, applicants must confirm financial viability and meet the evaluation criteria set by the ministry. The agency emphasized that meeting formal requirements does not guarantee obtaining a license. All applications will undergo an evaluation and comparison process.