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.
Nearly 2 million Muslim pilgrims begin annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia Anadolu Ajansı
Hajj 2025: How to stay healthy during Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca BBC
Saudi Arabia tackles sweltering heat as Hajj pilgrimage starts Euronews.com
Hajj begins in Makkah amid soaring summer temperatures Maktoob Media
Hajj 2025: How The Moon And Sun Guide This Week’s Pilgrimage In Mecca Forbes
Million-plus begin annual Hajj pilgrimage Al Arabiya English