Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 26 Jun 2026, 5:04 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.
Beyond Hajj: Saudi Arabia’s key global achievements in May 2026 MSN
Beyond Hajj: Saudi Arabia’s key global achievements in May 2026 Saudi Gazette
Kashmir Hajj Pilgrims Miffed By Road Transportation Of Luggage As First Batch Returns From Saudi Arabia ETV Bharat
Millions of Hajj pilgrims face heat threat in Mecca’s spring season Eco-Business
India receives Saudi awards for outstanding pilgrimage arrangements in Hajj 2026 Awaz The Voice
How Saudi Arabia is reshaping Hajj and Umrah into seamless experiences Salaam Gateway