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.
Middle East war casts shadow over million-strong haj pilgrimage The Straits Times
Saudi deploys drones, AI to boost security during 2026 Hajj Yeni Safak English
Saudi Arabia deploys drones, AI to enhance security during 2026 Hajj pilgrimage Anadolu Ajansı
Saudi Arabia 'fully prepared' to protect Hajj pilgrims amid global virus concerns The National
42,000 Iraqi Pilgrims Arrive in Makkah Asharq Al-Awsat English
Saudi Arabia deploys drones, AI to enhance security during 2026 Hajj pilgrimage Middle East Monitor