Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 9 May 2026, 2:34 AM (Saudi time)
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.
Ramadan 2024: Umrah bookings soar as UAE worshippers flock to Saudi's Makkah, Madinah arabianbusiness.com
Over 8 million perform Umrah so far this Ramadan Saudi Gazette
Saudi Haramain High Speed Railway gears up to transport 1.3m Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan Arab News
1.3 Million Seats on Haramain High Speed Railway to Transport Umrah Performers and Visitors During Ramadan وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Ramadan: Holiest cities Makkah, Madinah flooded with Umrah visitors Dhaka Tribune
Saudi ministry reiterates hospitality rules in Makkah and Madinah during Umrah, Hajj seasons Arab News