Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 2:24 AM (Saudi time)
Over 50,000 international pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026 from Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, with the arrival phase continuing through May 21 across 12,000+ flights.
Iraqi pilgrims enter Saudi Arabia overland via Jadidat Arar, tracing the path of the ancient Darb Zubaydah - a 1,400 km Hajj route built over 1,000 years ago under Abbasid patronage and now a UNESCO tentative World Heritage Site.
A spiritual preparation guide for Hajj 2026 with four weeks to go: settle debts, write your will, increase worship, learn the rituals, purify your intention, and the final night dua before departure.
A spiritual guide to the Day of Arafah for Hajj 2026 (expected May 26): the best Prophetic supplication, how to structure the afternoon, preparing your dua list, and making the most of the pinnacle of Hajj.
Saudi Arabia implements Green Hajj 2026 initiatives: recycling 50 tonnes of Ihram garments, converting food waste to fertiliser, processing 12,000 tonnes of slaughterhouse waste, and deploying animal health safeguards.
A guide to the 10 most common mistakes pilgrims make during Hajj - from leaving Arafah early to neglecting hydration - with practical advice on how to avoid each one based on Islamic sources and pilgrim experience.
King Salman Gate Project in Makkah to Transform Pilgrimage and Tourism Experience Travel And Tour World
Saudi’s King Salman gate project Set to transform Makkah’s economy and pilgrimage infrastructure Businessday NG
'Luxurising the sacred': New Mecca mega project sparks debate Middle East Eye
New multi-use development project planned for Mecca pilgrimage site upi.com
Hajj and Umrah Research Forum highlights sustainability of hotel buildings in central Makkah Arab News
Saudi Arabia’s New Policy Allows All Visa Holders to Perform Umrah, Enhancing Makkah and Madinah Accessibility, Here’s All You Need to Know Travel And Tour World