Hajj 2026: 10-Year Jail and SAR 10 Million Fine for Food Violations During Hajj
Food businesses operating without license during the Hajj season face prison, heavy fines, and immediate shutdown.
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia Introduces Electronic Pilgrim Tracking System for Hajj
For the first time this year, new digital systems will monitor pilgrim movement in and out of the Mina camps.
Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia Completes Miqat Preparations for Hajj
Entry point sites upgraded with expanded prayer areas, new water systems, 230+ cameras, and enhanced facilities for pilgrims.
Pakistani Family Serves Tea and Coffee to Masjid an-Nabawi Visitors for 70 Years
A Pakistani family originally from Sindh province has been serving tea, coffee, and food to visitors of Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah for 70 years — a tradition started by the grandfather and now carried on by the third generation.
Hajj 2026: Kaaba’s Kiswa Lifted Ahead of Hajj
The Kiswa — the black cloth covering the Kaaba — was lifted at 1 AM on April 18, 2026, marking the beginning of the Hajj 2026 season following more than 10 days of maintenance.
Hajj 2026: First Hajj Flights To Arrive on April 18 From Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh and India
The first Hajj 2026 flights carrying pilgrims from Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia are scheduled to land in Saudi Arabia on April 18, 2026 — marking the official start of the Hajj 2026 arrival season.
Hajj 2026: Pakistan Provides Free SIM Cards with Data for Hajj Pilgrims
Pakistani Hajj pilgrims receive free local SIMs with calls and data for their Saudi stay under new government initiative.
Sheikh Sudais Says Performing Hajj Without a Permit Is Against Shariah
Sheikh Sudais stresses Hajj permits are required under Islamic law to protect pilgrims and ensure orderly worship.
Major Project Inaugurated in Mina with 62 Buildings to Host Over 15,000 Pilgrims
The Minister of Hajj has inaugurated the Rabigh Qadeena project in Mina — a 33,000 m² development comprising 62 buildings capable of housing more than 15,000 pilgrims, with a full 10-tower complex expanding that capacity to approximately 30,000.
Entry to Makkah Banned for Those Without Hajj Permit Ahead of Hajj 2026
Saudi Arabia’s General Security has announced that entry restrictions into Makkah will come into force from Monday, April 13, 2026 — corresponding to 25 Shawwal 1447 AH — with no entry permitted without a Hajj permit, Makkah residency ID, or Makkah work permit.
Saudia Airlines Now Uses Google Find Hub To Track Baggage
Saudia integrates Google Find Hub so travelers can securely share bag location to speed up recovery of delayed luggage, with full privacy control.
Imam of Masjid al-Haram Sheikh Badr Al-Turki Arrives in Tanzania for First Official Visit
Sheikh Badr Al-Turki, Imam of Masjid al-Haram, has arrived in Tanzania for his first official visit, where he will preside over the International Quran Memorization Competition and lead several da’wah initiatives.
Makkah To Get Its Own Airport, Plan Approved by Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has officially approved plans for an international airport in Makkah al-Mukarramah — the first in the holy city’s history. RCMC CEO Eng. Saleh Al-Rasheed confirmed the announcement in Harvard Business Review Arabia, stating that feasibility studies have been completed and strategic directions approved. Here’s everything we know so far.
Hajj 2026: Umrah Will Be Only Open for Saudi Citizens From April 18 to May 2
Saudi citizens will have a dedicated window to perform Umrah at Masjid al-Haram from 1 Dhul Qi’dah to 15 Dhul Qi’dah 1447 AH — corresponding to April 18 to May 2, 2026 — with the Grand Mosque expected to be significantly less crowd.
Over 9 Million Iftar Meals Served at Masjid an-Nabawi During Ramadan 2026
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques served 9,015,322 free Iftar meals to worshippers and visitors at Masjid an-Nabawi throughout Ramadan 1447 AH.