Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 21 Jun 2026, 6:51 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.
From scorching heat to spiritual serenity: UAE pilgrims share first moments of Hajj in Makkah Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia urges pilgrims to use umbrellas as Hajj temperatures near 47°C Gulf News
No accommodation challenges for Ghanaian pilgrims – Hajj Advance Team CitiNewsroom.com
Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca begins Yahoo
Hajj 2026: How Drones and AI Are Guiding Pilgrims in Makkah The Indian Awaaz
Ice cream, giant fans, umbrellas: Hajj pilgrims battle Makkah's extreme heat Khaleej Times