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.
US Embassy in Saudi Arabia, Urges Americans to Rethink Hajj Plans Amid Rising Tensions – What You Need to Know Now Travel And Tour World
Latest Travel News: US Advises Against Hajj Travel to Saudi Arabia Amid Rising Security Tensions Travel And Tour World
US citizens told to reconsider travelling for Hajj as Trump threatens to wipe out Iran TRT World
US citizens told to reconsider travelling for Hajj as Trump threatens to wipe out Iran TRT World
US urges citizens to reconsider travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj this year HESPRESS English - Morocco News
US advises nationals to reconsider performing this year’s Hajj amid ongoing escalation Anadolu Ajansı