Over 1.7 million Muslim pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat to pray under scorching temperatures, marking the peak of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Authorities deployed special security forces and civil defense units to manage the crowds and ensure safety amidst the extreme heat.
Nigerian security forces successfully rescued multiple kidnap victims, including relatives of a former minister and individuals in Plateau and Kaduna states, while also foiling other abduction attempts.
Muslims globally are celebrating Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, with prayers and rituals, while pilgrims in Saudi Arabia conclude the annual Hajj pilgrimage, performing the symbolic 'stoning of the devil' under intense heat.
Millions of Muslim pilgrims have gathered at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, enduring scorching desert temperatures. Saudi Arabia is utilizing drones to help shield pilgrims from the extreme heat.
Muslim pilgrims have begun the annual Hajj in Mecca, with over 1.5 million participants performing rituals like the Tawaf despite extreme heat and ongoing Middle East conflicts. Pilgrims are using ice cream and giant fans to cope with the high temperatures as the pilgrimage unfolds under the shadow of regional instability.
The number of Hajj pilgrims surpassed 2025 arrivals, despite ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East. Many US Muslims, fueled by faith, embarked on the pilgrimage against this backdrop.
The Lagos state government has advised pilgrims preparing for Hajj to prioritize their health and get adequate rest. This recommendation comes amidst concerns about sudden deaths during the pilgrimage.
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Pakistan has deployed thousands of troops and a squadron of fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This move comes amid regional tensions and is reportedly in preparation for potential threats from Iran.
The Nigerian government is preparing to evacuate its citizens from South Africa following xenophobic attacks, while a business group advises against retaliatory actions targeting South African firms in Nigeria.
While 345 pilgrims from Ogun State have already arrived in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj, Kano State has announced it will begin airlifting its pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj starting May 14. The reports detail both current arrivals and future travel preparations for Nigerian Hajj participants.
The 2026 Hajj pilgrimage has commenced, with the first batches of pilgrims departing from countries like Ghana and Sri Lanka for Mecca. Tragically, seven Indonesian pilgrims have already passed away in Medina.
The Bauchi State government has commenced mandatory vaccinations and bag distribution for intending Hajj pilgrims, while also detailing new luggage regulations for the journey.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that religious differences will not divide them, urging Hajj pilgrims for 2026 to pray for the state's future and well-being.
A total of 36,156 Hajj pilgrims from Bangladesh have successfully arrived in Saudi Arabia. They are preparing to participate in the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
Iran's foreign minister arrived in Pakistan, fueling speculation about potential direct talks with the U.S. President Trump stated he anticipates Iran will present an offer aimed at satisfying American demands.
Thousands of Hajj pilgrims from Indonesia and Bangladesh have begun arriving in Saudi Arabia, with nearly 6,000 Indonesians reaching Medina and over 25,000 Bangladeshis arriving, though two deaths hav
Religious scholars (Ulema) have unveiled a set of conduct guidelines for Hajj pilgrims, urging them to adhere to Saudi rules and avoid engaging in political activities during the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has begun welcoming the first batches of pilgrims as the Hajj season officially commences, with international arrivals landing in Madinah and Jeddah. Authorities have also clarified that visit visas are barred from Hajj access.
A government plans to provide free SIM cards with data packages for Hajj pilgrims. The packages include 600 minutes and 40GB of internet data for 40 days, with a shorter package offering 25GB.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah introduced the Nusuk Card, an official identification card offering pilgrims discounts across retail, transport, and hospitality sectors to enhance their experience.
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf is working with Max Air to ensure the prompt and organized return of Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia following the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The first group of Bosnian Hajj pilgrims has arrived back at Sarajevo International Airport from Medina, marking the beginning of their return home after completing the Hajj.
Nigeria's National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) is commencing the return airlift of pilgrims, with Max Air starting operations on June 3 for Nasarawa State pilgrims, followed by Flynas and Air Peace for other states on June 4.
Returning Hajj pilgrims are facing baggage restrictions at Srinagar airport, forcing them to make a stopover in Ahmedabad. Only 5 kg of check-in baggage is allowed on the Ahmedabad-Srinagar flight, with the remaining 30 kg transported separately.
Governors Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Nasir Idris of Kebbi State provided cash gifts to pilgrims from their respective states during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Kaduna pilgrims received 300 Riyals each, while Kebbi pilgrims also received cash gifts from their governor.
The Qatari Hajj Mission has implemented extensive medical support for its pilgrims, including the introduction of a rapid ambulance scooter service. These initiatives aim to provide comprehensive healthcare and emergency services to Qatari Hajj pilgrims.
WorldAPAl Jazeerayle-uutiset+20fazle-figaroTimes of Indiastraits-timesDawniefimeridaarab-newsexpress-tribune+12 more22d ago23 sources
Muslims globally are celebrating Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, with prayers and rituals, while pilgrims in Saudi Arabia conclude the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The Hajj rituals, including the symbolic 'stoning of the devil,' were performed under intense heat.
Over 1.5 million Muslim pilgrims converged on Mount Arafat, near Mecca, to observe the most sacred day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage amidst soaring temperatures. Preparations were reviewed as pilgrims moved to Arafat, with many praying on the mount as the Hajj reached its peak.
Ghana's National Chief Imam has urged Ghanaian pilgrims to uphold discipline and unity ahead of the 2026 Hajj, describing the pilgrimage as a significant pillar of Islam and praying for their safe travel and devotion.
The first group of 172 future Hajj pilgrims from Bosnia and Herzegovina was officially sent off. A total of 2,226 believers from the country are expected to travel for Hajj this year.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced screening processes for 14 governors, a challenger to Tinubu, and Rivers Assembly aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections. This exercise is part of the party's preparations for upcoming political contests.
The Office of the National Chief Imam has congratulated Ghanaian Muslims preparing for the 2026 Hajj, urging them to uphold the highest values of Islam throughout the sacred pilgrimage.
King Mohammed VI has sent a message to Moroccan pilgrims embarking on Hajj, emphasizing the importance of discipline and spiritual focus during their religious journey.
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has officially withdrawn its funding for the LIV Golf tour, ending its significant financial backing after years of substantial investment. This decision leaves the breakaway golf league seeking new partners and facing an uncertain future.
The US military has begun deploying Ukrainian counter-drone technology at its base in Saudi Arabia. This move comes after Iranian drone attacks caused significant damage, leading the US to seek more effective defenses against such threats.
The Office for Hajj and Umrah of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina announced that future Hajj pilgrims from BiH will be provided with an application to facilitate easier tracking.
Kwara State has announced that the airlift for its 2026 Hajj pilgrims will commence on May 6, detailing the departure schedule, new ID cards, and preparations for the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has begun welcoming the first wave of Hajj pilgrims in the holy cities of Madinah and Jeddah, marking the start of the annual pilgrimage season.
Indonesia has announced a waiver of import duties on gift items brought back by Hajj pilgrims, aiming to ease the financial burden on returning travelers.
The first group of 2,222 Hajj pilgrims from Bosnia and Herzegovina is scheduled to depart for Mecca on May 16, organized by the Islamic Community's Office for Hajj and Umrah.
The Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency in Nigeria has finalized the visa issuance process for all its 2026 Hajj pilgrims, marking a significant step in their preparations for the annual pilgrimage.
The Saudi Health Ministry has issued a directive urging domestic Hajj pilgrims to obtain all necessary vaccinations before participating in the annual pilgrimage.
The final group of 2,226 Bosnian-Herzegovinian Hajj pilgrims has returned to Sarajevo International Airport, completing their religious pilgrimage to holy sites.
The Nigerian state of Ogun welcomed 345 Hajj pilgrims, comprising 151 males and 194 females, who arrived directly from Saudi Arabia. They landed at Gateway International Airport aboard a Flynas A330 aircraft.
The Kano State Government has introduced daily shuttle services for its Hajj pilgrims in Makkah, aiming to provide easy access to the Grand Mosque for prayers and enhance their pilgrimage experience.
Hajj pilgrims from various countries, including Jordan and Albania, have begun their return journeys home after successfully completing the pilgrimage to Mecca. Meanwhile, some Jammu and Kashmir pilgrims threatened a boycott over baggage restrictions on return flights.
The Kaduna State Governor has donated N114,000 to each Hajj pilgrim from the state visiting Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is set to commence the return airlift of pilgrims on June 5.
The Passports Directorate has deployed specialized teams to identify hospitalized and lost pilgrims during the Hajj season. This effort aims to assist and locate individuals facing difficulties during the pilgrimage.
An unprecedented heatwave swept across Europe, particularly affecting the UK, Ireland, France, and Spain, with temperatures reaching record highs for May. Numerous weather stations reported temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, breaking 80-year-old records in some areas.
Saudi authorities have issued a warning to prospective Hajj pilgrims, urging them to be vigilant against fraudulent offers and to ensure they obtain official and authorised permits for the pilgrimage.
Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage have begun their journey from Madinah to Makkah. This includes the third batch of pilgrims from Kwara state departing for Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has implemented a new rule requiring all Hajj pilgrims to be at least 15 years old. This decision establishes a minimum age limit for participation in the annual pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has announced new health regulations for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, which include restrictions for individuals suffering from serious illnesses.
A train collision in Indonesia, near Jakarta, has resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people and left dozens more injured. Rescuers have been working to recover the last victims from the wreckage.
Nearly 6,000 Hajj pilgrims from Indonesia have arrived in Medina, marking the beginning of their spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has reduced Nigeria's quota for Hajj pilgrims, leading to a decrease in the number of Nigerian citizens able to participate. This decision has resulted in states like Zamfara dropping hundreds of registered pilgrims.
Nigeria's National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) has announced that only medically fit pilgrims will be allowed to travel for the 2026 Hajj, implementing new rules for enhanced screening to ensure safety.
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has called on the State Comptroller of Immigration to ensure an efficient screening process for intending Hajj pilgrims in 2026.