Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 15 May 2026, 2:15 AM (Saudi time)
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.
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.
Saudi Arabia enforces fines up to SAR 100,000 for Hajj facilitators and SAR 20,000 for unauthorised pilgrims, plus deportation and 10-year entry bans, targeting informal networks enabling illegal participation.
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.
Ramadan 2024: Umrah bookings soar as UAE worshippers flock to Saudi's Makkah, Madinah arabianbusiness.com
Saudi Haramain High Speed Railway gears up to transport 1.3m Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan Arab News
1.3 Million Seats on Haramain High Speed Railway to Transport Umrah Performers and Visitors During Ramadan وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Ramadan: Holiest cities Makkah, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors Dhaka Tribune
Saudi ministry reiterates hospitality rules in Makkah and Madinah during Umrah, Hajj seasons Arab News
Holy Ramadan: Makkah, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors daily-sun.com