Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 1:02 PM (Saudi time)
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.
Towards a Seamless Hajj Operation – What States Must Do By Abdullahi O Haruna (Haruspice) PRNigeria News
Malaysian consulate: 1,600 Umrah pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia after airline cancellations Malay Mail
West Asia Conflict Forces Indian Pilgrims To Cancel Umrah, Operators Face Heavy Losses ETV Bharat
Saudi Domestic and International Travel Demand Now Rises During Ramadan 2026, Driven by Umrah and Family Travel Travel And Tour World
Ministry sets 2026 Hajj cost and announces refunds for overpayment HESPRESS English - Morocco News
Over 1,000 umrah pilgrims stranded amid flight disruptions The Sun Malaysia