Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 1:17 PM (Saudi time)
With temperatures exceeding 45C, Hajj 2026 demands serious heat preparation. Saudi Arabia deploys 155,000-tonne cooling, 32,000 health workers, and smart wristbands, but pilgrims must hydrate, use umbrellas, and know heat stroke warning signs.
Pakistan launches 468-flight Hajj 2026 airlift for 119,000+ pilgrims from 8 cities. Road to Makkah initiative expands to Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, benefiting 95,000 pilgrims.
Hajj 2026 deploys unprecedented technology: mandatory Nusuk smart cards, GPS-enabled health-monitoring wristbands, AI crowd management, and a 51-million-user app with 130+ digital services.
Indonesia launches Hajj 2026 with 391 pilgrims in the first batch, deploying 548 flights to transport its 221,000-strong quota - the largest of any country. Average waiting time stands at 26.4 years.
Hajj 2026 Day of Arafah is expected on May 26, with Eid Al Adha on May 27, based on astronomical calculations. Final dates depend on official Saudi moon sighting around May 17.
Saudi Arabia enforces fines up to SAR 100,000 for Hajj facilitators and SAR 20,000 for unauthorised pilgrims, plus deportation and 10-year entry bans, targeting informal networks enabling illegal participation.
Hajj: When is it, how did it start, and other key questions explained Middle East Eye
Pakistan establishes two hospitals, ten dispensaries in Makkah and Madinah for Hajj pilgrims Arab News
Hajj visa restricted to Jeddah, Medina and Makkah Dhaka Tribune
People with Hajj visas can only travel to Jeddah, Medina and Makkah: KSA The Daily Star
Saudi Arabia: Hajj visa restricted to Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca; no work or residency permitted Gulf News
Hajj and Umrah Ministry in Final Preparations for Inaugural Umrah and Ziyarah Forum وكالة الأنباء السعودية