Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 5:49 AM (Saudi time)
The first international Hajj 2026 pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats across 12,000 flights allocated for the season.
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.
Six Pakistanis arrested for entering Makkah without Hajj permit daily-sun.com
Saudi Arabia And GCC Nations Receive Extended Umrah Access Window As Makkah Prepares For Global Hajj Arrivals: Here Is The Latest Travel Guidance Travel And Tour World
Hajj vs Umrah visas 2026: What Indian pilgrims must know as Saudi Arabia bars visit visas, tightens entry norms MSN
2026 Hajj: NAHCON sets 3rd May for inaugural flight to Saudi Arabi The Guardian Nigeria News
Hajj Review Committee briefed on facilites for pilgrims in Makkah, Madina | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Hajj 2026: Morocco Expands ‘Makkah Route’ to Rabat-Salé Airport Morocco World News