Key Takeaways
- COVID-19, meningitis, polio vaccinations required
- Pilgrims with chronic illnesses may be disqualified
- Health screenings enforced at all Saudi entry points
Saudi health authorities have released updated medical requirements for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, implementing stricter vaccination mandates and fitness standards to protect public health during the massive gathering.
The guidelines affect all pilgrims and Hajj workers entering the Kingdom for the 1447 AH pilgrimage season.
All participants must present valid vaccination certificates for COVID-19, meningococcal meningitis (ACWY), polio, and yellow fever.
COVID-19 vaccinations must be from Saudi-approved manufacturers, with the most recent dose administered between 2021 and 2025, and at least two weeks before travel.
Meningococcal vaccines remain valid if administered within five years but no less than ten days before Saudi arrival.
Pilgrims from countries under polio surveillance must receive either IPV or OPV vaccines at least four weeks before travel, documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination.
Yellow fever immunization is mandatory for all travelers aged nine months and older, regardless of origin country.
Beyond vaccinations, the regulations explicitly disqualify pilgrims with serious health conditions.
Those with major organ failure, advanced chronic diseases, mental or neurological disorders, high-risk pregnancies, active infectious diseases, or ongoing cancer treatment will not receive pilgrimage approval.
The rules aim to prevent medical emergencies during the physically demanding rituals.
Travelers failing to meet requirements face denial of entry, isolation, or additional medical evaluation.
The measures continue to manage health risks during mass gatherings, refined through experience with previous Hajj seasons and global pandemic response.
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