Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 4 May 2026, 1:39 AM (Saudi time)
A practical guide to booking and visiting the Rawdah in the Prophet's Mosque during Hajj 2026, including Nusuk app booking steps, gender-separated visiting hours, and essential tips for pilgrims.
India deploys 175,025 pilgrims for Hajj 2026 from 17 embarkation points with new Hajj Suvidha App, smart wristbands, a short-duration option, enhanced insurance of Rs 625,000, and Haramain train access for 60,000 pilgrims.
Indonesia leads the world with a 221,000 Hajj quota for 2026, followed by Pakistan (180,000) and India (175,000). Nigeria's quota was cut 30% to 66,910 for underutilisation. Indonesia's average wait is 26.4 years.
With temperatures exceeding 45C, Hajj 2026 demands serious heat preparation. Saudi Arabia deploys 155,000-tonne cooling, 32,000 health workers, and smart wristbands, but pilgrims must hydrate, use umbrellas, and know heat stroke warning signs.
Pakistan launches 468-flight Hajj 2026 airlift for 119,000+ pilgrims from 8 cities. Road to Makkah initiative expands to Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, benefiting 95,000 pilgrims.
Hajj 2026 deploys unprecedented technology: mandatory Nusuk smart cards, GPS-enabled health-monitoring wristbands, AI crowd management, and a 51-million-user app with 130+ digital services.
Makkah pilgrimage deadlines Travel And Tour World
Saudi Arabia And GCC Nations Receive Extended Umrah Access Window As Makkah Prepares For Global Hajj Arrivals: Here Is The Latest Travel Guidance Travel And Tour World
Kuching man loses RM415,000 to Haj permit, Makkah hotel scam The Star
Hajj vs Umrah visas 2026: What Indian pilgrims must know as Saudi Arabia bars visit visas, tightens entry norms MSN
Six Pakistanis apprehended while attempting to enter Makkah illegally Saudi Gazette
2026 Hajj: NAHCON sets 3rd May for inaugural flight to Saudi Arabi The Guardian Nigeria News