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.
Umrah visas now require approved hotel booking via Nusuk Masar Gulf Business
Umrah visas now require approved hotel booking via Nusuk Masar Gulf Business
Umrah visas now require approved hotel booking via Nusuk Masar Gulf Business
Umrah visas now require approved hotel booking via Nusuk Masar Gulf Business
From Egypt to the Holy Lands: Mapping Late Ottoman Egyptian Pilgrimage Routes to Medina, Mecca, and Jerusalem Northeastern University
Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques launches Umrah season programs Arab News