Saudi Arabia will enforce stricter health protocols for Umrah pilgrims in 2025, making vaccinations mandatory to ensure the health and safety of millions of worshippers. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority has announced new vaccination requirements for Umrah pilgrims, mandating immunizations against meningococcal meningitis, polio, yellow fever, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza.
As per the updated regulations, all international visitors must receive the meningitis vaccine. Travelers from polio-affected countries, including Pakistan, Nigeria, and Afghanistan, are required to be vaccinated against polio. Pilgrims arriving from nations such as Angola, Nigeria, Brazil, and Congo must present proof of yellow fever vaccination. In addition, COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, in line with WHO recommendations, are now compulsory. Pilgrims are also encouraged to complete vaccinations for tetanus, measles, and other preventable diseases.
The Civil Aviation Authority requires pilgrims to carry vaccination certificates and medical records, especially for those with chronic conditions. Pilgrims are advised to bring sufficient medication in its original packaging.
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and dengue, protective measures such as wearing suitable clothing and using insect repellents with DEET, IR3535, or Icaridin are recommended. These steps reflect Saudi Arabia’s dedication to ensuring the health and safety of Umrah visitors.