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.
Saudi Arabia sets global benchmark in pilgrim health protection, says WHO ZAWYA
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Over 39,000 volunteers ensure successful Hajj 2026 operations Arab News
Makkah unveils $3.55bn development projects covering 2.7m sq m Arabian Business
NAHCON boss hails journalists over coverage of 2026 hajj Peoples Gazette Nigeria
From Cave Hira to Holy Quran Museum, five historic places to visit in Makkah beyond Hajj and Umrah MSN