Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 20 Jun 2026, 12:02 PM (Saudi time)
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.
Madinah welcomes first groups of Hajj pilgrims arriving from Makkah Saudi Gazette
Madinah welcomes first groups of Hajj pilgrims arriving from Makkah Saudi Gazette
Hajj 1447 AH / 2026 AD: Mr. Belmehdi Participates in the Annual Reception Hosted by the Saudi Crown Prince الإذاعة الجزائرية |
Saudi Arabia declares this year’s Hajj an exceptional success MSN
Uba Sani gifts Kaduna pilgrims 300 Riyals each in Saudi Arabia Premium Times Nigeria
Kebbi Governor Gifts Over 4,000 Hajj Pilgrims 350 Saudi Riyal Each Channels Television