Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 13 May 2026, 5:08 PM (Saudi time)
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.
33,000 health services provided to Umrah pilgrims during first 10 days of Ramadan Saudi Gazette
Middle East is heating up, the government ensures that the Hajj preparations continue to run VOI.id
Indonesian Consulate in Jeddah: Mecca-Medina Region is Still Safe, Umrah is Asked to Be Ready if Flights are Cancelled VOI.id
South African Muslims performing Umrah stranded in Saudi Arabia enca.com
#SHOWBIZ: Lan Solo and family safe in Madinah amid Middle East tensions NST Online
Saudi Arabia Launches Ajeer Platform for Temporary Staffing Across Makkah and Madinah: How This Move Enhances Tourism Services During Hajj and Ramadan — Here’s What You Need to Know Travel And Tour World