Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 4 May 2026, 5:35 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia restricted entry to Makkah from 13 April 2026 to Hajj permit holders only and suspended Umrah permits from 18 April to 31 May 2026 as the Kingdom prepares for the Hajj pilgrimage beginning around 25 May.
Saudi Arabia has imposed fines of up to SAR 100,000 for facilitating unauthorised Hajj and up to SAR 20,000 for pilgrims performing Hajj without a permit, alongside 10-year re-entry bans for violators.
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia introduces seasonal licensing system for pilgrim accommodations timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Makkah, Madinah, and Saudi Arabia Set to Revolutionize Pilgrim Accommodation with New Seasonal Licensing for Hajj 2026 – Everything That Visitors Need to Know Travel And Tour World
Over 1.6 million renew registrations for 2026 Hajj in Türkiye | Daily Sabah Daily Sabah
Ministry of Hajj launches new licensing system for Hajj pilgrims’ accommodation Saudi Gazette
Bangladesh reduces Hajj package fee after failure to fill quota Arab News
Missile defense system installed in Makkah to protect hajj pilgrims MSN