Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 May 2026, 5:56 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.
Saudi Arabia announces Umrah season calendar for 1448 AH Gulf News
Hajj Badal 2026: Rules, eligibility, and what to consider before appointing someone, Lifestyle News AsiaOne
Hajj 2026: Over 100,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Arrive in Saudi Arabia; Welfare and Medical Missions Assume Duties | Associated Press Of Pakistan
Qatar Hajj Mission ensuring safe, seamless experience for pilgrims The Peninsula Qatar
One more Hajj pilgrim dies in Saudi Arabia Jagonews24.com
Hajj 2026: 59,055 Bangladeshi pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia so far Daily Bonik Barta