Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 1:17 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.
First Somali Hajj Pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia as 2026 journey begins hiiraan.com
Hail hub receives Iraqi pilgrims as Saudi Arabia scales up Hajj 2026 operations Arab News
Egypt Gears Up for Hajj 2026, With 840 Pilgrims Departing for Saudi Arabia, Ensuring a Smooth Journey with Spiritual Guidance, Safety Protocols and Comfortable Accommodation Travel And Tour World
From Cave Hira to Holy Quran Museum, five historic places to visit in Makkah beyond Hajj and Umrah The National
Saudi Arabia restores 12-year minimum age for Hajj pilgrims Aaj English TV
2026 Hajj: Ogun Concludes Medical Screening, Distributes Luggage To Pilgrims Independent Newspaper Nigeria