Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 15 May 2026, 6:24 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 ministry reiterates hospitality rules in Makkah and Madinah during Umrah, Hajj seasons Arab News
President arrives in Madinah after performing Hajj Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS)
The road to Mecca is fraught with challenges – but there’s nothing like the hajj pilgrimage to turn hearts | Ali Hammoud The Guardian
Why do Muslims make the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca? Sahan Journal
Standing where Prophet Muhammad gave his final sermon, 2 million Muslims perform Hajj NPR
2 million begin Hajj as pilgrimage returns to full capacity for first time since pandemic PBS