Saudi Arabia will enforce stricter health regulations for Umrah pilgrims in 2025, with mandatory vaccinations aimed at safeguarding the public health of millions of worshippers. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority has announced that pilgrims must be vaccinated against diseases such as meningococcal meningitis, polio, yellow fever, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. These measures are part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience.
All international visitors are required to receive the meningitis vaccine, while those from polio-affected regions, including Pakistan, Nigeria, and Afghanistan, must also be vaccinated for polio. Pilgrims arriving from countries like Angola, Nigeria, Brazil, and Congo will need yellow fever vaccinations. Additionally, WHO-recommended vaccinations for COVID-19 and flu are now mandatory for all visitors.
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Pilgrims are advised to carry their vaccination certificates and health-related documents during their journey. The authorities have also urged pilgrims with chronic conditions to bring medical documentation and sufficient medication in its original packaging. To further prevent disease spread, visitors are encouraged to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like Zika virus and dengue by wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents.
On a related note, Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, signed the annual Hajj agreement for 2025. Under this agreement, 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Hajj, with promises of improved facilities and reduced accommodation rates in Mina.
The agreement also includes offering pilgrims accommodation options in Madinah for 4 to 8 days and providing them with a bag containing a Pakistani flag, QR code, and relevant identification details. A mobile app will further enhance the pilgrim experience by offering real-time information and updates.
