Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 30 Jun 2026, 12:56 PM (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.
Wego partners with Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Travel Daily News International
NAHCON Concludes 2026 Hajj Airlift, Begins Planning For 2027 Pilgrimage LEADERSHIP Newspapers
NAHCON completes return flight for 2026 Hajj Daily Trust
2026 hajj: NAHCON completes return airlift, says 12 pilgrims hospitalised in Saudi Arabia TheCable
King Salman to host 1,000 Umrah pilgrims Saudi Gazette
2026 Hajj: NAHCON concludes airlifting of 38,000 Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia Peoples Gazette Nigeria