September 18, 2025

Saudi Arabia

World

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Enter Joint Strategic Defence Pact, Pledge Mutual Military Support Against External Threats

In a significant diplomatic and military development, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan have signed a landmark Joint Strategic Defense Agreement, reaffirming their commitment to deeper security cooperation and mutual defence. The pact was formalised during high-level bilateral discussions between Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Mohammed

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Religion

Saudi Hajj Minister Wraps Up Strategic Visit to Türkiye, Strengthens Ties for Smoother Pilgrimage Operations

The Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, His Excellency Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, has successfully concluded an official diplomatic mission to the Republic of Türkiye, marking a significant step in bolstering bilateral cooperation between both nations on matters concerning the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The visit, which featured high-level engagements and strategic discussions, underscored the

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General Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia Offers Pilgrims Umrah Access for Just ₦10,700 via New Stopover Visa Scheme

In a major development that is being welcomed by Muslim travelers across the globe, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a streamlined stopover visa initiative that allows international visitors to perform Umrah for as little as 52.50 Saudi Riyals, approximately ₦10,700, during layovers in the Kingdom. The initiative, which is specifically tied to passengers flying with national

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General Religion

Saudi Arabia Confirms Drastic Reduction in Miqat Wait Times Ahead of Hajj 2026, Sets 35-Minute Limit as Pilgrim Preparations Intensify

Saudi authorities have announced a significant improvement in the readiness and efficiency of key pilgrimage entry points, ahead of the 2026 Hajj season. Pilgrims heading to Makkah will now experience a maximum wait time of just 35 minutes at all major miqats, a notable reduction from the 39-minute average recorded during the 2025 Hajj season.

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General Religion

Saudis Witness Stunning Lunar Eclipse Across Multiple Regions as Skies Offer Celestial Spectacle

Residents across various parts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were treated to a breathtaking view of the lunar eclipse, as the celestial event unfolded in the night sky and was clearly visible in numerous cities. From Riyadh to Jeddah, Dammam to Abha, sky-watchers gathered to observe the rare astronomical occurrence, which drew attention from

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Education World

Saudi Arabia Integrates Tourism and Hospitality Studies into School Curriculum in Line with Vision 2030 Agenda

In a significant move aligned with the Kingdom’s long-term economic diversification goals, Saudi Arabia has introduced tourism and hospitality studies into its national school curriculum. The initiative, which is part of the broader Vision 2030 strategy championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is designed to equip young Saudis with the skills and knowledge required

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Religion

Saudi Arabia Sets Strict Deadline for 2026 Hajj Visa Processing – NAHCON Warns Pilgrims

August 23, 2025 The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has cautioned intending pilgrims and stakeholders to strictly adhere to Saudi Arabia’s fixed deadlines for the 2026 Hajj, stressing that there will be no extensions for visa processing or registration once the official portal closes. Prince Anofiu Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, issued the warning

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World

Saudi Arabia Unveils International Culinary Contest to Select Top Chefs for Pilgrims’ Meals at Holy Mosques

In a bold move aimed at elevating the quality of meals served to pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, has unveiled a groundbreaking culinary challenge tagged the “Igaathathon”, also known as the Catering-thon. This innovative competition is part of wider efforts by Saudi authorities

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General Religion

Saudi Arabia Begins Construction of First-Ever Cinema in Makkah Under Smart City Initiative

In a bold move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s continued push to modernize its urban landscape while balancing religious sensitivities, authorities have commenced the construction of the first cinema in the holy city of Makkah. The project, which has generated widespread debate online, is part of the broader ‘Smart Mecca’ initiative designed to integrate

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General Pilgrims Religion

Saudi Arabia Launches ‘Nusuk Umrah’ Platform to Ease Visa, Travel and Booking Process for International Pilgrims

In a major stride towards transforming the Umrah pilgrimage experience for millions of Muslims across the globe, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially unveiled the “Nusuk Umrah” digital service. The platform, launched by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, allows pilgrims from outside the Kingdom to seamlessly apply for their Umrah visas and arrange

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