Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 4 May 2026, 5:35 PM (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.
Saudia has launched Hajj 2026 operations with 160 aircraft and over one million seats spanning 145 global destinations, as part of Saudi Arabia's total air transport plan of 3.1 million seats across 12,000 flights.
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.
Saudi Arabia warns Hajj violators face SR20,000 fines, deportation and 10-year re-entry ban Gulf News
Hajj 2026: NAHCON Begins Airlift With 474 Kogi Pilgrims Daily Trust
Kebbi’s first batch of pilgrims depart for Saudi Arabia Daily Post Nigeria
Kebbi pilgrims depart for 2026 Hajj exercise Tribune Online
2.2 million seats, 5,300 trips: Haramain train ramps up for Haj Gulf News
2026 Hajj: Gov Idris Bids Farewell to First Batch of Kebbi Pilgrims TVC News