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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.

  • Saudi Arabia Summarizes Hajj 2026: What's Next

    Saudi Arabia Summarizes Hajj 2026: What's Next

    SAUDI ARABIA SUMMARIZED THE Hajj AND BEGAN PREPARATIONS FOR THE NEXT SEASON The Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia announced the successful completion of Hajj 2026. According to official data, more than 1.7 million people performed the pilgrimage, of which 1,546,655 arrived from abroad, and 160,646 were citizens and residents of the kingdom. The ministry emphasized that preparations for the next Hajj begin immediately after the current season ends. A comprehensive analysis and improvement of all operational and security plans is already underway. Throughout Hajj, security forces, government agencies, volunteers, and service providers worked together to ensure the safety of pilgrims and the smooth conduct of rituals in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Special attention was paid to organizing the movement of pilgrims, work

  • 24/7 Emergency Medical Services for Pilgrims in Medina

    24/7 Emergency Medical Services for Pilgrims in Medina

    MADINAH — The Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) is providing emergency medical and humanitarian services to pilgrims as they visit the Prophet’s Mosque and other key religious sites across Madinah. Ambulance units have been strategically deployed at the Prophet’s Mosque, its courtyards, and other high-density locations to ensure rapid response to emergencies and the timely delivery of medical care. Ahmed Al-Zahrani, Director of the SRCA branch in Madinah Region, said ambulance teams are operating around the clock to provide emergency medical services to pilgrims and visitors throughout their

  • Achievements of Saudi Arabia in May 2026: Innovations and Recognition

    Achievements of Saudi Arabia in May 2026: Innovations and Recognition

    Throughout May, Saudi Arabia was diligently preparing for the arrival of pilgrims, the safe performance of Hajj, and adherence to regulations. Yet the extensive efforts required for the annual pilgrimage did not prevent the Kingdom from achieving a series of notable accomplishments across innovation, science, education, sports, and international recognition.

  • El Niño in 2026: Rising Temperatures and Precipitation in Saudi Arabia

    El Niño in 2026: Rising Temperatures and Precipitation in Saudi Arabia

    JEDDAH — The Regional Center for Climate Change (RCCC) released the latest climate indicators associated with El Niño, suggesting rises in temperatures above normal levels in the coming months. Issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) and RCCC, the forecasts indicate climate impacts on the Kingdom during the fall of 2026, including a rise in temperatures above normal levels and an increase in rainfall chances in some areas. The current status of El Niño — the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) — is neutral. As of May 5, 2026, the Niño 3.4 stood at 0.39°C, while th

  • Saudi Arabia's Private Sector Grows Fastest in Three Months

    Saudi Arabia's Private Sector Grows Fastest in Three Months

    RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s non-oil private sector activity posted growth at its fastest pace in three months during May, signaling a strong recovery from the slowdown recorded in March. Companies attributed this rebound to the restoration of normal business conditions following earlier disruptions linked to the regional conflict, the resumption of previously suspended work contracts, and stronger domestic demand. The Riyad Bank Saudi Arabia’s Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to 52.8 points in May 2026, representing a 2.5 percent increase and reflecting a notable improvement in the business e