Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 6 May 2026, 6:38 PM (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.
Hajj 2026: NAHCON Begins Airlift With 474 Kogi Pilgrims Daily Trust
Kebbi pilgrims depart for 2026 Hajj exercise Tribune Online
Hajj pilgrims can travel within Saudi Arabia, carrying digital visitor ID, instead of passport Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia boosts Haramain high-speed rail capacity to 2.2 million seats for Hajj Gulf News
2026 Hajj: Gov Idris Bids Farewell to First Batch of Kebbi Pilgrims TVC News
Illegal Hajj Risks: Saudi Arabia Issues 10-Year Entry Ban Tempo.co English