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.
Makkah Region Deputy Governor Inspects Hajj and Umrah Halls Complex at King Abdulaziz International Airport وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia deploys world’s largest road survey fleet madhyamamonline.com
Jigawa airlifts 480 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for 2026 Hajj Punch Newspapers
Second phase of Hajj 2026 arrivals: over 2,000 pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia under Route to Mecca project | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Cameroon Consulate in Jeddah Warns Against Illegal Currency Exchange Ahead of Hajj 2026 StopBlaBlaCam
Kano begins 2026 Hajj airlift May 14 Tribune Online