Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 26 Jun 2026, 3:04 AM (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.
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Saudi Arabia begins issuing Hajj visas for 2026 The Business Standard
Hajj 2026: 1,600 Lagos pilgrims arrive safely from Makkah MSN
Hajj 2026 begins for India as first group of pilgrims leaves for Saudi Arabia Newsonair