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.
Haramain high-speed rail boosts Hajj capacity to 2.2m seats Arab News
473 pilgrims airlifted to Saudi Arabia as Shettima flags off 2026 hajj flight TheCable
Saudi Arabia Restores Hajj Eligibility for Pilgrims Aged 12 and Above Nomad Lawyer
Saudi Arabia Restores Hajj Eligibility for Pilgrims Aged 12 and Above Nomad Lawyer
Saudi Arabia warns Hajj violators face SR20,000 fines, deportation and 10-year re-entry ban Gulf News
Hajj 2026: NAHCON Begins Airlift With 474 Kogi Pilgrims Daily Trust