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.
Saudi Arabia Announces Commencement Of Pilgrims’ Arrival For Hajj Bernama
Saudi Arabia Announces Commencement Of Pilgrims’ Arrival For Hajj Bernama
2026 Hajj: First batches of pilgrims from Turkiye, Pakistan arrive Saudi Arabia MSN
Interior Ministry Says SAR20,000 Fine for Unauthorized Access to Makkah during Hajj وكالة الأنباء السعودية
2026 Hajj: First batches of pilgrims from Turkiye, Pakistan arrive Saudi Arabia Tribune Online
Hajj Ministry asserts no entry to Makkah without an official Hajj permit Saudi Gazette