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.
West Asia crises may impact the Hajj pilgrimage Awaz The Voice
Saudi Arabia halts Umrah activities ahead of Hajj, sets deadline for pilgrims to leave The Eastleigh Voice
Saudi Arabia Bars Entry Into Makkah Without Hajj Permit, Suspends Umrah Access Ahead Of Hajj 2026 Oneindia
Saudi Arabia Tightens Hajj Hospitality Standards Under Vision 2030 Reforms Nomad Lawyer
Saudi Arabia Tightens Hajj Hospitality Standards Under Vision 2030 Reforms Nomad Lawyer
Saudi Arabia Tightens Hajj Rules to Raise Hospitality Standards thetraveler.org