Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Jun 2026, 1:54 AM (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.
More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj Al Jazeera
More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj.
Fueled by faith, some US Muslims embark on Hajj against a backdrop of regional tensions Daily American Republic
Saudi Tightens Security and Traffic for Hajj in Mecca VOI.id
Hajj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Mideast war Kuwait Times
Kuwait hajj mission says teams ready to support pilgrims Kuwait Times