Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 2:34 AM (Saudi time)
Nearly 37,000 Pakistani pilgrims have reached Saudi Arabia as direct Jeddah flights begin May 4. A global overview of arrivals from Indonesia, India, Iraq, Sudan, and Nigeria ahead of the expected May 25-30 Hajj dates.
A comprehensive guide to the Day of Arafah during Hajj 2026 - the most important day of the pilgrimage. Covers timing, duas, spiritual significance, and practical tips to maximise worship.
A practical emergency guide for pilgrims separated from their group during Hajj 2026, covering immediate steps, prevention, available help resources, and what to do if you lose your passport.
A practical packing guide for first-time Hajj 2026 pilgrims covering the essential items veterans swear by - from UV umbrellas and power banks to blister prevention and the triple-copy document rule.
Over 5.7 million Indonesians face a 26-year wait for Hajj despite holding the world's largest quota of 221,000 places. Indonesia has reduced 2026 costs by $120 per pilgrim while exploring queue reform.
Saudi Arabia deploys 500 free golf carts, smart health-monitoring wristbands, and 800-bed hospitals for elderly pilgrims at Hajj 2026, alongside Islamic concessions that ease their physical obligations.
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