Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Saudi Arabia strictly enforces vaccines for Umrah pilgrims
Last Friday, Saudi Arabia introduced updated health requirements for travellers of Umrah visas, or those intending to perform Umrah regardless of visa type. This is to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Trending: New stricter rules for Labor requirement firms
Mandatory meningitis vaccine for visitors :
Starting from 1st February 2025, visitors to Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas, or those intending to perform Umrah or Visit regardless of visa type, are now required to have the Quadrivalent Neisseria Meningitis vaccine before entry into the Kingdom, the government said in a press release. Proof of vaccination must be presented, with the certificate issued at least 10 days before the travel date. Children under one year old are exempt from this requirement.
The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has instructed airlines to ensure compliance with these measures. Airlines must verify that all passengers meet the vaccination requirements before travel.
The Civil Aviation Authority urges all pilgrims to carry health-related documents, including vaccination certificates, throughout their journey. The authorities also advise pilgrims with chronic health conditions to bring medical documentation and sufficient medication, ensuring it is kept in its original packaging. Most Viewed: Minimum iqama period required to issue final exit visa
Rules for polio vaccination certificates :
Specific rules also apply for polio vaccination certificates:
* Travellers from Pakistan must present a valid polio vaccination certificate.
* Passengers transiting through Afghanistan, Kenya, Congo, or Mozambique are required to show a polio vaccination certificate unless their stay in the transit area is under 12 hours.
These measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the health of the millions of residents and visitors, including those who visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah each year for Umrah.
In addition, pilgrims and visitors arriving from Angola, Nigeria, Brazil, and the Congo will need yellow fever vaccinations. Follow Saudi Expatriates on X platform
Saudi Arabia strictly enforces vaccines for Umrah pilgrims
