Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 3 May 2026, 5:23 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia enforces fines up to SAR 100,000 for Hajj facilitators and SAR 20,000 for unauthorised pilgrims, plus deportation and 10-year entry bans, targeting informal networks enabling illegal participation.
Hajj 2026 proceeds as scheduled despite the expiry of the US-Iran ceasefire. Saudi Arabia confirms advanced security with 1.8 million pilgrims expected. Trump indicates truce extension but no formal deal confirmed.
First Hajj 2026 pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 18 from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats allocated across 12,000+ flights.
Saudi Arabia confirms Hajj 2026 will proceed as scheduled despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire expiring as the first pilgrims arrive. Makkah and Madinah remain protected by advanced defence systems.
Saudi Arabia has made the Nusuk smart card mandatory for all Hajj 2026 pilgrims, combining personal, medical, and accommodation data. The Nusuk app has surpassed 51 million users with over 130 digital services.
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.
Kebbi pilgrims depart for 2026 Hajj exercise Tribune Online
2026 Hajj: Gov Idris Bids Farewell to First Batch of Kebbi Pilgrims TVC News
Illegal Hajj Risks: Saudi Arabia Issues 10-Year Entry Ban Tempo.co English
Abu Dhabi urges pilgrims to prepare early for Hajj Gulf News
Saudi Arabia Restores Hajj Eligibility for Pilgrims Aged 12 and Above After Reversing Under‑15 Ban — What Travelers Must Know Travel And Tour World
43,019 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia, seven died daily-sun.com