Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 24 Jun 2026, 5:12 PM (Saudi time)
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 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.
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