Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 5:11 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia deployed its largest-ever cooling and shading infrastructure for the 1447 Hajj, one of the last summer pilgrimages before the calendar shifts the season into cooler months from 2027.
Saudi Arabia announced designated Rawdah visiting times at the Prophet's Mosque, with men and women given separate windows and access booked through the Nusuk app.
Saudi Arabia's official Nusuk pilgrimage app has passed 51 million users across more than 190 countries, consolidating over 130 services for Hajj and Umrah travellers.
Saudi Arabia confirmed the Muharram crescent sighting, marking June 16, 2026, as the first day of the Islamic year 1448 AH, with Ashura falling on June 25.
New carriers and routes, including a flynas Jeddah-Rabat link, Mukhtara Air in Indonesia and resumed Uzbekistan flights, are expanding air access for Umrah pilgrims in the 2026 season.
Bangladesh has released its Hajj 2027 roadmap, requiring pilgrims to register by September 26, 2026, with visas issued from January 28 and flights from April 8, 2027.
Over 1.5 million pilgrims begin Hajj amid regional tensions Al Jazeera
The spiritual and physical challenge is described by pilgrims as a transformative and deeply meaningful journey.
With nearly two million worshippers performing Hajj this year, technology is key to ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Hajj to experience milder weather as pilgrimage moves into spring and winter Gulf News
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia’s metro system to transport over two million pilgrims MSN
8 persons penalized for transporting 18 people without Hajj permits Saudi Gazette