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.
Pakistani pilgrims start arriving in Makkah from Madinah as part of Hajj journey Arab News
Aviation Fuel Hike: Stakeholders seek FG’s support to airlift hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia Peoples Gazette Nigeria
Indian Hajj pilgrims reach Makkah from Madinah, accorded warm reception Greater Kashmir
Hajj 2026: Stakeholders seek FG intervention over hike in aviation fuel Blueprint Newspapers
Pakistani pilgrims start arriving in Makkah from Madinah as part of Hajj journey Arab News
Hajj Security Forces arrest 3 Egyptians for violating Hajj regulations Saudi Gazette