Islamic Information

Saudi Arabia announced the winners of the King Abdulaziz Quran Competition, held at Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca. Abdulrahman Muhammad of Saudi Arabia and Jumana Shraitiyah of Algeria each won the top prize of 500,000 riyals. The event brought together 334 competitors from 133 countries, with total prizes reaching 10.26 million riyals, the highest ever for this competition.

Sheikh Abdur Rahman Al Sudais issued a warning from Masjid Al Haram on 18 Aug 2026 against celebrating Mawlid, stating it opposes the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah and his companions.

Nusuk app just added six new tools for pilgrims! You can now track your Tawaaf and Sa'ee rounds, check live crowd levels, find your Qibla direction, view maps of the holy sites, and even book flights and hotels — all in one app.

Reports claim Brazilian football star Roberto Carlos converted to Islam four weeks ago after reciting the Shahada with Sheikh J. Hamada in Sao Paulo. Turkish MP Ali Sahin shared the news on X, praising Hamada's meeting with the ex-Real Madrid and Fenerbahce defender.

Friday Imams for 21 August 2026 (8 Rabi al-Awwal 1448) at Masjid al‑Haram and Masjid an‑Nabawi:

Sheikh Sudais (Masjid al-Haram)
Sheikh Ahmad Hudhaify (Masjid an-Nabawi)

The Makkah Haram Library is hosting free summer programs for children, run by the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. Kids can enjoy stories and activities that teach good values in fun, simple ways. A great way for families to make the most of their visit to the Grand Mosque.

Visiting Makkah? Don't miss this exhibition near the Grand Mosque. See how the Kaaba's black cloth is made, the tools used to wash the Kaaba, and the story of Zamzam water. There's even a VR experience to try. Open every evening at the Masjid al-Haram Library, Batha Quraish — last day August 20, 2026.

Saudi Arabia has started early preparations for Hajj 1448 by meeting Hajj affairs offices from more than 75 countries to improve coordination and pilgrim services.

From Hajj affairs offices around the world, to enhance coordination and raise the level of readiness for the season, with the aim of:

- Reviewing the instructions
- Discussing inquiries
- Researching preparations
- Briefing on operational plans

Saudi Arabia has new rules for Hajj hotels and housing. Starting with the 2027 season, places hosting pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah will be rated as economy or first class. Buildings will be checked before they get a licence and while they operate. Owners must finish repairs early before they apply.

- Two categories: economy and first class
- Checks before licensing, before opening, and during operation
- Maintenance must be done before applying
- Violations schedule in place for non-compliance
- Applies to facilities in Makkah and Madinah
- Takes effect for the 2027 Hajj season

NEWS: Sheikh Sudais will lead the Maghrib prayer at Masjid al-Haram from 18 August 2026 until 22 August 2026.