Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Jun 2026, 12:29 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.
Zionist entity’s siege deprives Gazans from hajj for 3rd year Kuwait Times
stc group prepares for Hajj 1447 AH with advanced solutions and an integrated connectivity ecosystem Saudi Gazette
UAE deploys medical teams in Makkah as part of 'healthy, safe Hajj’ campaign Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia warns Hajj pilgrims of extreme temperatures, up to 47°C Daily Post Nigeria
Edo Pilgrims Arrive Madinah as 2026 Hajj Journey Begins The Nigerian Observer
Four Hajj pilgrims saved after suffering from severe heart attacks Saudi Gazette