Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 1:25 PM (Saudi time)
The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah and Madinah in 2-2.5 hours at 300 km/h. Expected to carry tens of thousands of pilgrims during Hajj 2026 with air-rail integration and Nusuk app booking.
A practical guide to booking and visiting the Rawdah in the Prophet's Mosque during Hajj 2026, including Nusuk app booking steps, gender-separated visiting hours, and essential tips for pilgrims.
India deploys 175,025 pilgrims for Hajj 2026 from 17 embarkation points with new Hajj Suvidha App, smart wristbands, a short-duration option, enhanced insurance of Rs 625,000, and Haramain train access for 60,000 pilgrims.
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.
Makkah meeting reviews animal health risk plan for Hajj Arab News
Hajj Minister Sends Off 391 Indonesian Pilgrims in First Departure Tempo.co English
Egypt Joins India, Indonesia, Turkey, Malaysia, and Other Key Nations as Saudia Launches Hajj 2026 Travel Operations, Welcoming Pilgrims to Jeddah with Over One Million Seats and a Fleet of 160 Aircraft to Ensure Seamless Journey for Thousands Travel And Tour World
Indonesia sends off 391 pilgrims in first batch for 2026 season ANTARA News
Umrah Visa from India 2026: Visa Types, Nusuk Steps, Cost & Rules Wego Travel Blog
20,553 Hajj pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia; one pilgrim dies daily-sun.com