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.
Saudi, GCC citizens and expats in Kingdom can perform Umrah until May 3 ZAWYA
Saudi Citizens and GCC Nationals Can Still Perform Umrah Until 3 May 2026 Wego Travel Blog
Tourism minister inspects readiness of pilgrims’ accommodation in Makkah Saudi Gazette
Saudi tourism minister inspects hospitality facilities for pilgrims in Makkah ahead of Hajj Arab News
Umrah open for Saudis and GCC citizens until May 3 Gulf News
Watch: Saudi Arabia welcomes first group of Iranian Hajj pilgrims Gulf News