Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 1:02 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia implements Green Hajj 2026 initiatives: recycling 50 tonnes of Ihram garments, converting food waste to fertiliser, processing 12,000 tonnes of slaughterhouse waste, and deploying animal health safeguards.
A guide to the 10 most common mistakes pilgrims make during Hajj - from leaving Arafah early to neglecting hydration - with practical advice on how to avoid each one based on Islamic sources and pilgrim experience.
Saudi Arabia bars pilgrims with kidney failure, advanced heart disease, COPD, severe neurological disorders, and cancer from Hajj 2026. Mandatory medical fitness certificates and vaccinations enforced, with deportation for non-compliance.
Saudi Arabia deploys the Baseer AI platform and real-time colour-coded crowd tracking at the Grand Mosque for Hajj 2026, part of 150+ initiatives across 60 languages to manage millions of pilgrims safely.
A comprehensive guide for UK pilgrims performing Hajj 2026: Nusuk booking, direct flights from Heathrow and Manchester, FCDO advisory, health requirements, package costs from GBP 5,000-25,000+, and essential checklist.
Trump extended the US-Iran ceasefire indefinitely on April 21 as Hajj arrivals continue. Iran seeks dialogue but tensions persist. Saudi security fully mobilised for 1.8 million pilgrims expected in late May.
Hajj 2026: How Saudi plans to boost accommodation services Gulf Business
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Drives Major Infrastructure Expansion with Makkah International Airport and Metro Projects: All You Need To Know Travel And Tour World
Prabowo: Indonesia to Keep 2026 Hajj Cost Rp2 Million Lower Tempo.co English
UK Joins US, Canada, India, Indonesia and Others to Issue Strict Umrah and Hajj Travel Advisory and Safety Guidelines for Citizens Traveling to Saudi Arabia Amid Escalating Middle East Crisis: Everything You Need to Know Travel And Tour World
Indonesia Set to Dispatch First Hajj Pilgrims on April 22 Tempo.co English
President Promises 2026 Hajj Costs Down Rp2 Million, Garuda is Encouraged to Joint Venture with Saudi Air VOI.id