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.
Makkah Police Arrest Five Residents for Violating Hajj Regulations وكالة الأنباء السعودية
36,996 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia, two more die daily-sun.com
Kwara begins vaccination of pilgrims ahead of 2026 Hajj Punch Newspapers
Saudi tourism minister inspects hospitality facilities for pilgrims in Makkah ahead of Hajj Arab News
Watch: Saudi Arabia welcomes first group of Iranian Hajj pilgrims Gulf News
TGA Warns Carriers Against Transporting Hajj Violators to Makkah and Holy Sites وكالة الأنباء السعودية