Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 6 May 2026, 6:38 PM (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.
Prabowo: Indonesia to Keep 2026 Hajj Cost Rp2 Million Lower Tempo.co English
UK Joins US, Canada, India, Indonesia and Others to Issue Strict Umrah and Hajj Travel Advisory and Safety Guidelines for Citizens Traveling to Saudi Arabia Amid Escalating Middle East Crisis: Everything You Need to Know Travel And Tour World
Indonesia Set to Dispatch First Hajj Pilgrims on April 22 Tempo.co English
President Promises 2026 Hajj Costs Down Rp2 Million, Garuda is Encouraged to Joint Venture with Saudi Air VOI.id
Indonesia Signals Rising Hajj Costs, Minister: 'Won't Burden Pilgrims' Tempo.co English
Idris launches 2026 Hajj kits for Kebbi intending pilgrims Blueprint Newspapers