Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Jun 2026, 6:35 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi authorities upgraded the Grand Mosque's Zamzam water system for the 1447 AH Hajj season, distributing more than 2.1 million cups daily through 169 fountains backed by 70 daily quality tests.
Makkah developer Umm Al Qura has launched a 2026-2030 strategy to become a multi-city development platform and secured a 1.2 million square metre site to be built as Masar Gardens.
Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs will open mandatory registration for Hajj 2027 later this month, urging pilgrims to ensure passports are valid until 16 November 2027.
Indonesia has started planning its 2027 and 2028 Hajj operations early to offset rising aviation fuel prices, which feed directly into the flight costs borne by pilgrims.
Indonesia will require all 2027 Hajj officials to complete barracks-style training and will create a dedicated unit for the Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina rites to improve pilgrim safety.
Indonesia has placed nearly 17,000 regular Hajj pilgrims in four-star and five-star Madinah hotels for the first time, with priority given to elderly pilgrims and those with special needs.
Saudi Arabia deploys drones, AI to enhance security during 2026 Hajj pilgrimage Anadolu Ajansı
Saudi Arabia 'fully prepared' to protect Hajj pilgrims amid global virus concerns The National
42,000 Iraqi Pilgrims Arrive in Makkah Asharq Al-Awsat English
Saudi Arabia deploys drones, AI to enhance security during 2026 Hajj pilgrimage Middle East Monitor
Hajj 2026: 21 Bangladeshi pilgrims died in Saudi Arabia so far daily-sun.com
Saudi Arabia Hajj Religion News Service