Hajj 2026: 1.5 million pilgrims gather in Mecca, including Australians, as temperatures hit 48°C

Around 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world have gathered in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026 in Mecca, as the annual Islamic pilgrimage takes place under scorching temperatures reaching around 48°C. From Australia, a significant number of pilgrims also travel each year for Hajj, including many from the South Asian community.A large section of South Asian families continue to prefer travelling via their home countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, a trend explored in this report. We look at how Hajj 2026 travel from Australia is being shaped by rising costs, strict quota systems, and global conditions, in conversation with Hajj travel provider Waqas Jamal. The report also examines challenges for families, increasing competition among travel agents, and options available for those who miss out on securing a place in the annual Hajj quota.