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.
Hajj Rules Tightened News of Bahrain
Saudi Arabia launches online permits for Makkah entry during Hajj season Dailyhunt
Yobe State Pilgrims Commission Completes Arrangements For 2026 Hajj Pilgrimage LEADERSHIP Newspapers
Up to SAR100,000 in fines: Saudi authorities tighten rules for Hajj transportation Gulf Business
Saudi interior ministry activates Makkah checkpoints as Umrah season ends Travel Daily Media
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia sets Makkah entry rules, suspends Umrah permits and enables digital applications Arabian Business