Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 2:34 AM (Saudi time)
Hajj 2026 proceeds as scheduled despite the expiry of the US-Iran ceasefire. Saudi Arabia confirms advanced security with 1.8 million pilgrims expected. Trump indicates truce extension but no formal deal confirmed.
First Hajj 2026 pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 18 from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats allocated across 12,000+ flights.
Saudi authorities completed 47 hours of Ka'bah maintenance and raised the Kiswa on April 18 with a team of 34 craftsmen, alongside Maqam Ibrahim beautification and 230+ cameras at Miqat stations.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered full mobilisation of security and operational plans for Hajj 2026, with new electronic monitoring, 230+ surveillance cameras, and mandatory Nusuk smart cards.
Saudi authorities have completed 4,700 man-hours of maintenance on the Ka'bah and Maqam Ibrahim, including marble restoration and expansion joint replacement, ahead of Hajj 2026.
Saudi Arabia confirms Hajj 2026 will proceed as scheduled despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire expiring as the first pilgrims arrive. Makkah and Madinah remain protected by advanced defence systems.
First batch of 480 intending Jigawa pilgrims airlifted to Saudi Arabia The Guardian Nigeria News
Second phase of Hajj 2026 arrivals: over 2,000 pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia under Route to Mecca project | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Cameroon Consulate in Jeddah Warns Against Illegal Currency Exchange Ahead of Hajj 2026 StopBlaBlaCam
Kano begins 2026 Hajj airlift May 14 Tribune Online
Kano begins 2026 Hajj airlift May 14 Tribune Online
Nepal complains after India and China agree to resume a religious pilgrimage through a contested Himalayan pass.