Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 8:27 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.
Makkah Entry Permit 2026 Explained: Who Needs It, Who Is Exempt, and How to Avoid Being Turned Back Wego Travel Blog
Man arrested in Makkah after posting fake ads for Hajj permits on social media Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia to slap SR100,000 fine on those who facilitate visit visa holders to perform Hajj illegally Saudi Gazette
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia halts Makkah entry, suspends Umrah visas and sets strict rules for pilgrims ET TravelWorld
Saudi Arabia Announces Strict Penalties for Hajj Without Permit Arab Times Kuwait News
Minister Al-Rabiah briefs Makkah Deputy Emir on Hajj preparations Saudi Gazette