Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 10 May 2026, 1:12 AM (Saudi time)
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.
Saudi Arabia Tightens Hajj 2026 Entry Controls With New Mandatory Biometric Verification For Pakistani Pilgrims As Authorities Move To Prevent Large Scale Travel Failures Travel And Tour World
Pakistan urges pilgrims to complete Saudi biometrics as Hajj preparations gain pace Arab News
Pakistan tightens private Hajj scheme for 2026 after thousands miss pilgrimage Arab News
Pakistan tightens private Hajj scheme for 2026 after thousands miss pilgrimage Arab News
Court Okays Yahaya Bello’s Mecca Trip For Hajj The Whistler Newspaper
Hajj 2026: Jan 28 deadline for arranging pilgrims’ accommodation in Saudi Arabia The Daily Star