Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 15 Jun 2026, 12:26 PM (Saudi time)
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 2026 proceeds as scheduled despite the expiry of the US-Iran ceasefire. Saudi Arabia confirms advanced security with 1.8 million pilgrims expected. Trump indicates truce extension but no formal deal confirmed.
First Hajj 2026 pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 18 from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats allocated across 12,000+ flights.
Saudi Arabia confirms Hajj 2026 will proceed as scheduled despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire expiring as the first pilgrims arrive. Makkah and Madinah remain protected by advanced defence systems.
Health Minister Visits SFDA’s Hajj Operations Center in Makkah to Review Service Readiness وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Municipalities Minister Inspects Readiness of Holy Makkah Municipality, Holy Sites for Hajj Season وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Saudi Arabia Joins United States, Iran, Israel, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Major Gulf States as Bold Worshippers Challenge Conflict Zones, Navigate Rising Tensions, and Embark on Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Sacred Hajj Tourism Pilgrimage Experience Travel And Tour World
2026 Hajj: Nigerian pilgrims move to Makkah ahead Arafat day Tribune Online
Photos: Millions of Muslims Gather in Mecca for Annual Hajj Pilgrimage ABNA English
Licensable picture: Pilgrims perform umrah around the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque ahead of the start of hajj in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia reutersconnect.com