Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Jun 2026, 1:40 AM (Saudi time)
Indonesia leads the world with a 221,000 Hajj quota for 2026, followed by Pakistan (180,000) and India (175,000). Nigeria's quota was cut 30% to 66,910 for underutilisation. Indonesia's average wait is 26.4 years.
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.
Jamarat complex in Makkah sets global benchmark in Hajj crowd management Arab News
The eternal pilgrimage of Hajj: A journey through faith, sacrifice and humanity Island.lk
Crown prince salutes Hajj workforce at Eid reception in Mina Arab News
1.70m pilgrims performed 2026 Hajj — Saudi authority Punch Newspapers
🔴 Hajj Live 2026 | Makkah Haram Live Now 🕋 Kaaba HD Stream | Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik Tube Strikes May 2026 (uUvRGXE6QB) Mshale
Muslim pilgrims perform Hajj rituals under intense heat as Eid al-Adha celebrations start timesherald.com