Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Jun 2026, 6:07 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 medical teams save four pilgrims after heart attacks in Makkah madhyamamonline.com
Saudi Arabia Completes Preparations for Hajj Services at Two Miqats VOI.id
Transfer of Afghan pilgrims for Hajj to Saudi Arabia completed: Ministry Pajhwok Afghan News
A look at the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha and their significance to Muslims around the world AP News
Saudi Arabia Announces Monumental Umrah 2026-27 Schedule, Resuming Visa Issuance for Pilgrims from May 31 with Mandatory Nusuk App Permits, Structured Entry Dates, and Final Departure Deadlines to Revolutionize Religious Tourism and Pilgrim Tra Travel And Tour World
2026 Hajj: S/Arabia notifies pilgrims of extreme heat Daily Trust