Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 2:20 AM (Saudi time)
The Dhul Hijjah moon sighting is expected May 16-17, with Pakistan's SUPARCO predicting Eid al-Adha on May 27. Official confirmation from Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court will determine all Hajj 2026 dates.
Saudi Arabia has activated its live smart transport system for Hajj 2026, with 20,000+ GPS-tracked buses, the Haramain Railway, and 24/7 control centres managing pilgrim movement in real time.
Saudi forces arrested 34 people in Hajj 2026 enforcement operations including 18 caught forging Nusuk cards and wristbands, 5 attempting desert border crossings into Makkah, and 1 running social media scams.
Saudi Arabia has invested 6 billion SAR over four years to transform Hajj infrastructure: 7,800 bathrooms cutting waits by 75%, 200% more hospital capacity, 60,000 trees, and 400 misting fans at the Jamarat.
Pakistan launches a digital scorecard system allowing 119,000 pilgrims to rate their 1,378 Hajj assistants via QR codes, with penalties including deportation for persistent negligence.
Saudi Ministry of Health has published a free Hajj health guide in 8 languages covering heat prevention, respiratory infections, food safety, first aid, and advice for high-risk groups.
Haj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Middle East war The Star | Malaysia
Hajj pilgrim numbers in Saudi Arabia surpass 2025 arrivals despite Middle East war Khaleej Times
International Hajj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Middle East war Khaleej Times
Haj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Middle East war The Straits Times
Saudi warns Hajj pilgrims of dust storms and extreme heat daily-sun.com
How Saudi Arabia is using AI to transform the Hajj experience Al Arabiya English