Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 22 Jun 2026, 7:26 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia is enforcing strict health eligibility rules for Hajj, barring pilgrims with serious chronic conditions and requiring proof that applicants can perform the rituals independently.
Saudi Arabia has begun building an 8.5 million square metre waste processing city south of Mecca, designed to meet the holy city's environmental needs and serve millions of pilgrims for up to 60 years.
Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission has uncovered more than 1,700 artefacts at Miqat Al Juhfah, a historic station on the ancient Hajj route to Mecca, shedding light on early Islamic pilgrimage networks.
As the 1448 Umrah season opens, pilgrims face summer heat above 40C in Makkah. Sensible timing, hydration, and use of cooling infrastructure keep the rites safe.
India has opened the administrative cycle for Hajj 2027 after receiving Saudi preparation documents, with an advisory urging pilgrims to ready their passports ahead of registration.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims across 10 countries for Hajj 1447, completing entry procedures in about 40 seconds before departure.
Pilgrims pray on Mount Arafat as hajj reaches peak Kuwait Times
Pilgrims gather on the Day of Arafah, the spiritual peak of Hajj, retracing the Prophet Muhammad’s final sermon.
Saudi Arabia turns to drones to shield pilgrims from extreme heat The Peninsula Qatar
Saudi Arabia: Hajj 2026 reaches its spiritual peak as millions of Muslim pilgrims gather MSN
Hajj 2026: Ghana records first pilgrim death Ghana News Agency
Hajj 2026: Mina Becomes a Smart Pilgrim City as Hajj Rituals Commence Kashmir Life