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.
Saudi Arabia reduces Nigeria’s Hajj quota Tribune Online
Saudi Arabia has imposed strict restrictions on entering Mecca during the Hajj season. Zamon
Passports Directorate Opens Electronic Applications for Makkah Hajj Entry Permits وكالة الأنباء السعودية
1,714 Kwara pilgrims to perform 2026 Hajj, board confirms Punch Newspapers
1,714 Kwara pilgrims to perform 2026 Hajj, board confirms Punch Newspapers
Saudi Arabia imposes up to ₹24.9 lakh fine, 10-year ban for illegal Hajj entry Free Press Kashmir