Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 10 May 2026, 1:24 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.
Journey to Mecca: Scenes from the Hajj pilgrimage - June 5, 2025 Reuters
From Spain to Mecca on horseback: The men performing Hajj like medieval pilgrims Middle East Eye
How AI tech innovation has elevated the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage experience Arab News
How AI tech innovation has elevated the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage experience Arab News
Today’s Hajj pilgrimage is limited to Mecca and Medina. It used to include Palestine, too. Mondoweiss
Hajj Begins With Sweeping New Changes Time Magazine