Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 2:34 AM (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.
Thousands of Thai pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia as 2026 Hajj journey continues Pattaya Mail
Hajj security forces arrest Egyptian resident for transporting visa holder to Makkah illegally MSN
Saudi Minister of Hajj Reviews Camp Readiness in Mina Tempo.co English
Hajj Security Forces arrest Egyptian resident for transporting visa holder to Makkah illegally Saudi Gazette
GACA readies 3.1 million seats, 12,000 flights for 2026 Hajj season Saudi Gazette
Hajj 2026 rules Travel And Tour World