Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 12:02 PM (Saudi time)
International Hajj 2026 arrivals reached 1,518,153 - surpassing 2025's total despite regional tensions. The Makkah Route Initiative served a record 388,694 pilgrims across 1,227 flights.
Saudi Arabia announces the full Umrah 1448 calendar running June 2026 to April 2027, with a new 30-day visa entry rule replacing the previous 90-day window.
Saudi Arabia resumes Umrah visa issuance on May 31 with Makkah reopening June 1. A new 30-day entry rule replaces the previous 90-day window for the 1448 AH Umrah season.
Eid al-Adha 2026 is here. Nearly 2 million Hajj pilgrims complete the core rituals of the 10th Dhul Hijjah while Muslims worldwide celebrate the Festival of Sacrifice.
Hajj 2026 has officially begun as nearly 2 million pilgrims enter Ihram and move to Mina on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafah follows tomorrow, with Eid al-Adha on Wednesday.
Over 860,000 foreign pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026, with 820,000 by air, 35,000 by land, and 4,000 by sea. The Makkah Route Initiative has cut airport processing from 2 hours to 15 minutes.
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj metro system to transport over two million pilgrims in 1447 AH season Gulf Business
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia’s metro system to transport over two million pilgrims Gulf Business
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj metro system to transport over two million pilgrims in 1447 AH season Gulf Business
Muslims begin the annual Hajj in sweltering heat against a backdrop of war concerns PBS
Muslims begin the annual Hajj in sweltering heat against a backdrop of war concerns Bluefield Daily Telegraph
Muslims begin the annual Hajj in sweltering heat against a backdrop of war concerns New Castle News