Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 28 Jun 2026, 2:23 AM (Saudi time)
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.
WHO hails Saudi Arabia’s health measures after safe Hajj season The New Arab
WHO hails Saudi Arabia's health measures after safe Hajj season The New Arab
Kano provides free daily bus service for pilgrims in Makkah Tribune Online
Unified Security Operations Center 911 in Makkah Region Serves as Vital Support for Pilgrims وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Journey to Mecca: Scenes from the annual hajj pilgrimage MSN
NAHCON commends stakeholders for hitch-free 2026 hajj operations Peoples Gazette Nigeria