Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 7:06 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia enforces fines up to SAR 100,000 for Hajj facilitators and SAR 20,000 for unauthorised pilgrims, plus deportation and 10-year entry bans, targeting informal networks enabling illegal participation.
Hajj 2026 proceeds as scheduled despite the expiry of the US-Iran ceasefire. Saudi Arabia confirms advanced security with 1.8 million pilgrims expected. Trump indicates truce extension but no formal deal confirmed.
First Hajj 2026 pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 18 from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Malaysia, with 3.1 million seats allocated across 12,000+ flights.
Saudi authorities completed 47 hours of Ka'bah maintenance and raised the Kiswa on April 18 with a team of 34 craftsmen, alongside Maqam Ibrahim beautification and 230+ cameras at Miqat stations.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered full mobilisation of security and operational plans for Hajj 2026, with new electronic monitoring, 230+ surveillance cameras, and mandatory Nusuk smart cards.
Saudi authorities have completed 4,700 man-hours of maintenance on the Ka'bah and Maqam Ibrahim, including marble restoration and expansion joint replacement, ahead of Hajj 2026.
Hajj 2026: Drones, AI to be used for medical, logistic services The New Arab
Hajj 2026: Pilgrims gather at Mount of Mercy on the plain of Arafat for most sacred stage of Hajj Arab News
Nearly two million gather for annual Hajj pilgrimage despite war in Iran CNN
Over 1.7 million pilgrims perform 2026 Hajj — Saudi authorities Tribune Online
Al Jazeera speaks to Hajj pilgrims about their journey to Mecca Al Jazeera
Indonesia, Pakistan, India Lead Hajj 2026 Quotas as Costs Rise Dawan Africa