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 2026: Amid faith, tears and hope Kashmir’s first batch of pilgrims leaves for holy sojourn Greater Kashmir
Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Route scheme hailed as pilgrimage departures begin The Vibes
Inside the 10 routes carrying Hajj pilgrims to Makkah MSN
Saudi Arabia Hajj 2026: Ministry warns pilgrims must obtain permit or face penalties Arabian Business
"Route to Makkah" initiative launched at Dhaka Airport for Hajj pilgrims The Bangladesh Monitor
Asia's Muslims keep faith with Mecca pilgrimage despite Iran war fears Nikkei Asia