Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 12:05 PM (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.
Saudi Arabia Joins United States, Iran, Israel, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Major Gulf States as Bold Worshippers Challenge Conflict Zones, Navigate Rising Tensions, and Embark on Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Sacred Hajj Tourism Pilgrimage Experience Travel And Tour World
2026 Hajj: Nigerian pilgrims move to Makkah ahead Arafat day Tribune Online
Photos: Millions of Muslims Gather in Mecca for Annual Hajj Pilgrimage ABNA English
Sun to align directly above Kaaba on Day of Arafat in rare 33-year event Gulf News
Licensable picture: Pilgrims perform umrah around the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque ahead of the start of hajj in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia reutersconnect.com
How Saudi Arabia is shielding pilgrims from extreme Hajj heat Gulf News