Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 8:27 PM (Saudi time)
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.
33 stranded Bangladeshi Umrah pilgrims returned home after ministerial intervention, highlighting the importance of choosing licensed travel operators and maintaining proper documentation.
Amal by Malaysia Airlines launches 110-flight Hajj 2026 operation with A330-300 aircraft, transporting 15,620 pilgrims via 67 domestic feeder flights and offering a new courier service for returning pilgrims.
Lower section of Kaaba’s Kiswa raised in preparation for Hajj 2026 Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia begins welcoming pilgrims ahead of Hajj season Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia Reinforces ‘No Hajj Without Permit’ Policy Ahead of Pilgrimage News of Bahrain
Hajj 2026 Operation Starts from Karachi airport Breaking Independent News Pakistan
3.1 million seats, 12,000 flights: Saudi Arabia's transport plan for Hajj pilgrims Gulf News
Afghanistan to airlift 30,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in 96 flights for Hajj 2026 Ariana News