Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 1:17 AM (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 builds major waste processing city south of Mecca by 2027 to serve Hajj and Umrah pilgrims Gulf News
Saudi Arabia reports zero power outages at holy sites during 2026 Hajj İlke Haber Ajansı
Pilgrims Advised To Remain Prayerful As Hajj Ends Daily Trust
Saudi Arabia launches early preparations for 2027 Hajj season Gulf News
Pakistan Secures Global 'Labbaitum' & Private Sector Awards for Hajj 2026 Success; 2027 Policy to be Unveiled This Month | Associated Press Of Pakistan
KP CM commends Saudi government for exemplary Hajj 2026 arrangements | Associated Press Of Pakistan