Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 10 May 2026, 1:12 AM (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.
Over 1.6 million renew registrations for 2026 Hajj in Türkiye | Daily Sabah Daily Sabah
Ministry of Hajj launches new licensing system for Hajj pilgrims’ accommodation Saudi Gazette
Bangladesh reduces Hajj package fee after failure to fill quota Arab News
Missile defense system installed in Makkah to protect hajj pilgrims MSN
AI-Powered Network Automation Slashes Outages in Makkah by 60% During Hajj Season ITP.net
Should the Saudis Continue to Manage the Hajj? Middle East Forum