makkah

Giant clocks worldwide are more than timekeepers. They are architectural wonders and cultural symbols. From Saudi Arabia's makkah Royal Clock Tower to India's Bhestan Floral Clock, these structures blend engineering and art. They stand as landmarks, reflecting local heritage and human creativity. These colossal timepieces captivate visitors and locals alike.

Saudi Arabia has implemented stringent new penalties, including hefty fines and deportation for foreign residents, for attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit. These measures aim to enhance pilgrim safety and manage overcrowding during the annual pilgrimage, with strict enforcement beginning from Dhu Al Qi'dah.

Air connectivity to West Asia is gradually resuming after an elusive ceasefire. Kuwait's Jazeera Airways relaunched direct flights to India and other countries, with plans to expand its network. Gulf Air also resumed services to India, while Saudi Arabia's airspace is nearly fully open. Preparations for Indian Haj pilgrims are underway.

Saudi Arabia has implemented strict entry restrictions into makkah ahead of Hajj 2026, suspending Umrah visas to manage crowds and ensure safety. Only those with valid Hajj permits or official work/residency documents will be allowed entry from April 13. This move aims to prevent overcrowding and unauthorized participation during the pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia's nationwide crackdown resulted in the arrest of 14,487 illegal residents between April 9 and April 15. Violations included residency, border security, and labor laws, with thousands now undergoing legal procedures or deportation. The Ministry of Interior also warned of severe penalties for those aiding illegal entry.

Saudi Arabia's security forces have arrested over 14,000 individuals in a nationwide crackdown on illegal residents. The operation targeted violations of residency, labour, and border laws. Thousands are being deported, while others face legal procedures. Authorities are also penalizing those who aid undocumented individuals. The public is urged to report violations.

Saudi Arabia is hosting stranded GCC nationals in makkah with 2,500 hotel rooms allocated by the makkah Chamber of Commerce. This initiative, a directive from King Salman, ensures comfort and facilitates safe return, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to regional unity and hospitality during travel disruptions.

makkah schools are changing their schedules for winter. Starting November 2, 2025, morning assembly will be at 7:15 AM and the first class at 7:30 AM. Evening classes for girls begin at 3:00 PM and for boys at 5:00 PM. These adjustments aim to improve student safety and academic flow during the colder months.

Pilgrims heading to makkah and Madinah for Ramadan should expect warmer weather. Saudi Arabia's meteorology center predicts above-average temperatures and below-normal rainfall. Daytime conditions will feel noticeably warmer, especially in the afternoons. Any precipitation is expected to be light. This forecast helps authorities prepare services for worshippers during the holy month.

RUA AlHaram AlMakki Company concluded its Cityscape Global debut with six strategic MoUs, boosting investment and partnerships for the King Salman Gate project. The development was showcased as a transformative destination for the global Muslim community, while an immersive booth drew thousands of visitors with dynamic visuals and tributes to makkah’s heritage.

Saudi Arabia has implemented a strict entry ban to makkah for expatriates without valid Hajj permits, effective April 23, 2025. This measure aims to streamline the pilgrimage, enhance crowd management, and maintain the sanctity of the event.

The Haram Mazjid around the Holy Kaabaa in makkah is overflowing with Haj pilgrims as they begin to return.

The conference of the Muslim World League (MWL) held at makkah in Saudi Arabia two days ago has issued a declaration calling for co-existence, pluralism and religious tolerance in the world.

A new virtual reality experience at the Sharjah International Book Fair allows visitors to step back 1,400 years and explore makkah and Madina during the Prophet Muhammad’s era. Developed by Ana Al Madina, it recreates streets, markets, homes, and spiritual landmarks, including the Holy Kaaba. Users witness daily life, the Prophet’s early years, and the founding of Islam, offering an immersive, educational journey

Saudi Arabia's intensive crackdown on residency, labor, and border violations resulted in over 22,000 arrests in a single week. The majority of violations involved irregular residency status, with significant numbers also apprehended for attempting illegal entry. Authorities are expediting deportations and issuing stern warnings against facilitators, emphasizing strict penalties for aiding illegal activities.

During the Hajj, makkah and its surroundings are filled with people of diverse backgrounds. They speak different languages and dress in various attire. However, upon arriving here, their thinking becomes unified. They come together to worship the same God.

Registration is now open for i'tikaf at the Grand Mosque in makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, commencing on 20 Ramadan. Worshippers can apply electronically to observe this spiritual practice in a safe and organized environment during the final ten days of Ramadan.

This Friday, Hyderabad is set to witness a historic event, the first in 325 years, when the President of Iran, Dr Hassan Rouhani, visits the grand makkah Masjid here to address the weekly congregation.

Saudi Arabia has launched early preparations for the 1447 AH (2026) Hajj, following the successful 2025 season. A high-level meeting in makkah, led by Prince Saud bin Mishaal and attended by over 40 agencies, focused on improving services, using technology, and enhancing coordination to ensure a smooth, secure, and spiritually fulfilling experience for pilgrims.

The Islamic cities of makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia are witnessing an influx of millions of pilgrims not only during the Haj season, but also during the holy month of Ramadan.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman unveils the King Salman Gate project in makkah, a 12 million sqm mega-development next to the Grand Mosque. Featuring 900,000 worshipper capacity, luxury hotels, retail spaces, and heritage preservation, it aligns with Vision 2030 goals. This transformative hub boosts pilgrimage infrastructure, enables global real estate investment, and fuels Saudi's economic diversification.