Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 12:02 PM (Saudi time)
Five Saudi ministries confirm Hajj 2026 readiness with 1.5 million expected pilgrims, 52,000 healthcare workers, full 5G coverage at holy sites, and AI-powered crowd monitoring across all sacred locations.
Hajj 2026 dates are confirmed: Dhul Hijjah begins May 18, pilgrims move to Mina on May 25, the Day of Arafah is May 26, and Eid al-Adha falls on Wednesday May 27.
Saudi Arabia's Adahi facility - the world's largest automated slaughterhouse - is ready to process 800,000 Hajj sacrifices using AI, with meat distributed to 27 countries. Only sheep are being processed for 2026.
The Dhul Hijjah moon sighting is expected May 16-17, with Pakistan's SUPARCO predicting Eid al-Adha on May 27. Official confirmation from Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court will determine all Hajj 2026 dates.
Saudi Arabia has activated its live smart transport system for Hajj 2026, with 20,000+ GPS-tracked buses, the Haramain Railway, and 24/7 control centres managing pilgrim movement in real time.
Saudi forces arrested 34 people in Hajj 2026 enforcement operations including 18 caught forging Nusuk cards and wristbands, 5 attempting desert border crossings into Makkah, and 1 running social media scams.
NAHCON boss hails journalists over coverage of 2026 hajj Peoples Gazette Nigeria
From Cave Hira to Holy Quran Museum, five historic places to visit in Makkah beyond Hajj and Umrah MSN
Pilgrims Advised To Remain Prayerful As Hajj Ends LEADERSHIP Newspapers
Saudi Arabia Wraps Up Safe and Smooth Hajj 2026 with Record Operational Success The Indian Awaaz
Over 1.5 million pilgrims arrive Saudi Arabia for 2026 hajj MSN
Saudi Arabia opens visa applications for new Umrah season Gulf News