Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 6:29 PM (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.
Jigawa airlifts 480 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for 2026 Hajj Punch Newspapers
Second phase of Hajj 2026 arrivals: over 2,000 pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia under Route to Mecca project | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Cameroon Consulate in Jeddah Warns Against Illegal Currency Exchange Ahead of Hajj 2026 StopBlaBlaCam
Kano begins 2026 Hajj airlift May 14 Tribune Online
Kano begins 2026 Hajj airlift May 14 Tribune Online
Makkah Chamber Organizes Workshop on Ajeer Platform for Hajj Season وكالة الأنباء السعودية