Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Sep 2026, 11:04 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.
First Hajj Flight from Malaysia Heads to Saudi Arabia under Makkah Route Initiative spa.gov.sa
Makkah Municipality Begins Receiving Applications to Qualify Catering Contractors for Hajj 1448 AH spa.gov.sa
Makkah governor thanks everyone who helped make Hajj 2018 a success Arab News
Makkah Health Cluster ready for Hajj with 10 hospitals and 82 health centers Arab News
Hajj, the National Mosque and the National Cathedral: Separating Faith, Fact and Public Money Modern Ghana
Hajj 2027 registration for UAE pilgrims opens today thenationalnews.com