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.
Saudi Arabia Restores Hajj Eligibility for Pilgrims Aged 12 and Above After Reversing Under‑15 Ban — What Travelers Must Know Travel And Tour World
43,019 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia, seven died daily-sun.com
From years of waiting to seamless arrival: Indonesian pilgrim’s Hajj journey reflects Saudi push for smoother rites Arab News
Makkah Route streamlines Hajj journey for pilgrims from Turkiye with tech, on-ground teams Arab News
Kuwaitis holding Hajj permits only can enter Makkah area Arab Times Kuwait News
Phased activation of 35 modern clinics for Pakistani pilgrims begins; 28 tests at central facility, DG Hajj Soomro The Nation (Pakistan )