Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 1:17 PM (Saudi time)
Pakistan launches a digital scorecard system allowing 119,000 pilgrims to rate their 1,378 Hajj assistants via QR codes, with penalties including deportation for persistent negligence.
Saudi Ministry of Health has published a free Hajj health guide in 8 languages covering heat prevention, respiratory infections, food safety, first aid, and advice for high-risk groups.
A study presented at the EGU General Assembly shows the 2024 Hajj breached human survivability limits for four hours. While Hajj 2026 will be cooler, the research warns of future risks from climate change.
A structured week-by-week preparation checklist for Hajj 2026 pilgrims covering documents, medical, packing, spiritual preparation, and key dates from now until the Hajj begins on May 25.
A complete practical guide to performing Tawaf at the Ka'bah during Hajj 2026, covering the seven circuits, dua, Black Stone etiquette, crowd management, and common mistakes to avoid.
Saudi police arrested suspects with forged Hajj permits as the Interior Ministry confirms penalties of up to 7 years prison and 5 million SAR for Hajj fraud operations. Translated from Arabic sources.
At least 1,300 hajj pilgrims died during extreme heat, Saudi Arabia says The Guardian
What's behind deaths at this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia? BBC
Mecca sees over 1,000 deaths during the Hajj, a pilgrimage threatened by climate change Le Monde.fr
More than 1,000 hajj pilgrims die amid temperatures approaching 52C in Mecca The Guardian
Hundreds died in intense heat during Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, officials say PBS
Amid scorching heat, 900 people died this week in Saudi Arabia. Climate change has made the Hajj pilgrimage more risky The Conversation