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.
Millions of Muslim pilgrims arrive in Mecca for annual Hajj DW.com
Muslim pilgrims arrive in Mecca ahead of start of Hajj africanews.com
Hajj Kicks Off as Hotel Developers Target Religious Tourism Boom Skift
Saudi Arabia launches world's largest cooling system as pilgrims gather for Hajj The National
20 years after embracing Islam, Uruguayan Muslim fulfills his Hajj dream in Makkah Arab News
Saudi Arabia removes 200,000 people from Mecca ahead of Hajj season—here's why Türkiye Today