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.
Muslim pilgrims converge on Arafat for prayers and worship as Hajj reaches its peak New Haven Register
Hajj Security Forces Arrest 12 Violators Attempting to Enter Makkah Without Permits وكالة الأنباء السعودية
Journey to Mecca: Millions gather for annual hajj pilgrimage Reuters
Deputy emir of Makkah says Saudi Arabia will continue enhancing Hajj services Saudi Gazette
2026 Hajj: Zulum sponsors Hadaya for 1,725 Borno pilgrims Tribune Online
Muslim pilgrims converge on Arafat for prayers, worship as Hajj reaches its peak The Tribune-Democrat