Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 2:24 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia requires all Hajj 2026 pilgrims to carry a valid quadrivalent ACYW meningitis vaccination certificate administered at least 10 days before arrival, with additional polio vaccine requirements for pilgrims from high-risk countries.
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.
Saudi Arabia’s Saudia Kicks Off Hajj 2026: Revolutionary Flight Operations and Special Services to Enhance Pilgrims’ Experience Travel And Tour World
Kyrgyz pilgrims to begin Hajj flights on May 11, rules, restrictions announced 24.KG
Hajj 2026 begins: 431 Kashmiri pilgrims leave for Saudi Arabia; 4,706 to embark this year MSN
Nusuk card for Hajj 2026: Everything pilgrims need to know daily-sun.com
Nusuk card for Hajj 2026: Everything pilgrims need to know daily-sun.com
Saudi Arabia begins issuing 2026 Hajj visas, months ahead of arrivals MSN