Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 15 Jun 2026, 12:26 PM (Saudi time)
The first international Hajj 2026 pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats across 12,000 flights allocated for the season.
Saudi Arabia requires all Hajj 2026 pilgrims to carry a valid quadrivalent ACYW meningitis vaccination certificate administered at least 10 days before arrival, with additional polio vaccine requirements for pilgrims from high-risk countries.
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.
SAPM Haroon shares emotional Hajj message on X as he departs Makkah for Mina | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Hajj 2026: 1.5 million gather in Mecca despite threat of Iranian strikes ynetnews
From scorching heat to spiritual serenity: UAE pilgrims share first moments of Hajj in Makkah Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia urges pilgrims to use umbrellas as Hajj temperatures near 47°C Gulf News
No accommodation challenges for Ghanaian pilgrims – Hajj Advance Team CitiNewsroom.com
Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca begins Yahoo