Saudi Arabia Bans Names Violating Islamic Law For Public Facilities
New regulations ensure all public facility names across the Kingdom, prohibiting terms that contradict Shariah and restricting the use of Allah’s Most Beautiful Names.
Zohran Mamdani Takes Oath as New York Mayor on Quran
The oath was taken with his hand on a Quran at a decommissioned City Hall subway station, with public ceremonies to follow.
Winter Quran Memorization Program 2026 in Masjid al-Haram Has Started
Winter Quranic Memorization and Review Program for 1447 AH, offering structured courses, with eligibility criteria for local and international applicants.
Oberoi Hotel in Madinah to Stop Operations After 40 Years
The luxury hotel right next to the Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) will end its management contract on January 1, 2026.
Masjid an-Nabawi Opens Volunteer Jobs For Iftar Meals For Ramadan 2026
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Prophet’s Mosque announces seasonal volunteer opportunities to manage iftar services for pilgrims during the upcoming holy month.
Emirates Introduces Pocket Prayer Mats for Passengers
New thicker, portable prayer mats available upon request from cabin crew on all flights.
Suicide Attempt at Masjid al-Haram, Man Threw Himself From The Top Floor
A person throws himself from upper levels of Masjid al-Haram, with security officer injured during intervention attempt; both receiving medical treatment.
11.9 Million Pilgrims Performed From Nov 22 to Dec 20, 2025
Unprecedented numbers perform the lesser pilgrimage during the 29-day period from November 22 to December 20, 2025.
Muslim Teacher Shot Dead Inside Aligarh Muslim University Campus
A 43-year-old teacher at a university-run school was killed in a shooting near the Maulana Azad Library.
Garuda Indonesia to Transport Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims from 2026 to 2028
Indonesian National airline signs three-year agreement with Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, guaranteeing capacity and reduced fares for pilgrims over the next three pilgrimage seasons.
Isra and Miraj to Be Observed on January 16, 2026
The night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad PBUH will be commemorated on 27 Rajab 1447 AH, corresponding to January 16, 2026.
Indonesia Acquires $500 Million Complex in Makkah for Hajj Pilgrims
Government purchases Novotel Thakher City hotel and adjacent land to establish dedicated “Hajj Village” accommodating 23,000 Indonesian pilgrims near Grand Mosque.
India: Bihar Chief Minister Removed Muslim Doctor’s Hijab at Ceremony
Nitish Kumar faces widespread condemnation for removing a Muslim woman’s face veil during appointment ceremony.
Hajj Operators Face Immediate License Cancellation for Mismanagement
Ministry warns private pilgrimage companies that negligence causing pilgrims to miss Hajj 2026 will result in permanent operating bans and financial penalties.
Two Holy Mosques Authority Wins Prestigious Service Award
General Authority for Care of Two Holy Mosques receives Bronze Award at Saudi Customer Experience Awards for innovative pilgrim service initiative.