Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 7 May 2026, 5:49 AM (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.
The Hajj pilgrimage and why it's significant for Muslims PBS
More than 220 Saudi girl scouts help Hajj pilgrims in Makkah, Madinah, holy sites Arab News
Journey of Faith: Pilgrims Depart from Madinah for Makkah to Perform Hajj وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Hajj: When is it, how did it start, and other key questions explained Middle East Eye
Pakistan establishes two hospitals, ten dispensaries in Makkah and Madinah for Hajj pilgrims Arab News
Hajj visa restricted to Jeddah, Medina and Makkah Dhaka Tribune