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.
Ghana Hajj advance team lands in Saudi Arabia, kicks off preparations for 2026 pilgrimage GhanaWeb
Five Egyptians arrested for entering Makkah without a Hajj permit Saudi Gazette
KSA: Makkah Police arrest five residents for violating Hajj regulations Gulf Daily News
Analysis: Aviation fuel crisis threatens 2026 hajj airlift #trusttvnews #2026Hajj instagram.com
First Iranian Hajj pilgrimage caravan gets warm welcome upon arrival in Medina IRNA English
Makkah Police Arrest Five Residents for Violating Hajj Regulations Asharq Al-Awsat | Explore World News Today