Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 29 Jun 2026, 3:07 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.
Ministry of Municipalities and Housing: Implementation of environmental control and treatment works in more than 46,000 locations in Makkah and the Holy Sites during the Hajj season وزارة البلديات والإسكان
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing announces the completion of the readiness of the municipal system in Makkah and the Holy Sites for the Hajj season of 1447 AH. وزارة البلديات والإسكان
Ministry of Municipalities and Housing: More than 60 tunnels prepared and more than 330,000 lighting units operated in Makkah and the holy sites for Hajj 1447 AH وزارة البلديات والإسكان
Ministry of Municipalities and Housing: Receiving nearly 30,000 reports and carrying out 4,500 operational tours daily in Makkah and the holy sites during Hajj 1447 AH وزارة البلديات والإسكان
2026 Hajj: First Batch of Kwara Pilgrims Return Voice of Nigeria
New Saudi rules could reshape Indonesias 2027 hajj operations ANTARA News