Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 17 Jun 2026, 12:30 PM (Saudi time)
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.
More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj Al Jazeera
More than 1.5 million pilgrims brave fierce Mecca heat ahead of Hajj.
Fueled by faith, some US Muslims embark on Hajj against a backdrop of regional tensions Daily American Republic
Saudi Tightens Security and Traffic for Hajj in Mecca VOI.id
Hajj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Mideast war Kuwait Times
Kuwait hajj mission says teams ready to support pilgrims Kuwait Times