Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 2:20 AM (Saudi time)
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.
Pilgrims for annual hajj in Mecca surpass 2025 numbers despite Middle East war The Times of Israel
Hajj 2026: When pilgrims braved disease, heat, and bandits' attacks for faith Awaz The Voice
Hajj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals The Peninsula Qatar
Nigerian Pilgrims Form Major Contingent At 1447 AH Hajj Voice of Nigeria
Hajj pilgrim numbers surpass 2025 arrivals despite Middle East war The Jakarta Post
Over 1.5 million foreign pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026 Minute Mirror