Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 15 May 2026, 2:15 AM (Saudi time)
The first international Hajj 2026 pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats across 12,000 flights allocated for the season.
Saudi Arabia has revealed plans for a new Makkah international airport, a metro system with completed feasibility studies, an AI crowd management programme, and integrated Saudia-Saudi Railways ticketing as part of a large-scale infrastructure overhaul of the Holy City.
Saudi Arabia requires all Hajj 2026 pilgrims to carry a valid quadrivalent ACYW meningitis vaccination certificate administered at least 10 days before arrival, with additional polio vaccine requirements for pilgrims from high-risk countries.
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.
Haj 2026: First batch of Kashmir pilgrims departs for Saudi Arabia KNS News
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