Saudi Arabia is set to implement stricter health protocols for Umrah pilgrims in 2025, mandating vaccinations to safeguard the health and safety of millions of worshippers.
The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority announced that pilgrims must be vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis, polio, yellow fever, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza.
The new regulations specify that all international visitors must receive the meningitis vaccine, while travelers from polio-affected countries such as Pakistan, Nigeria, and Afghanistan must also be vaccinated against polio. Pilgrims arriving from Angola, Nigeria, Brazil, and Congo will require yellow fever vaccinations. Additionally, vaccinations for COVID-19 and flu, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), are now mandatory. Pilgrims are also advised to complete vaccinations for tetanus, measles, and other diseases.
The Civil Aviation Authority emphasized that pilgrims must carry health-related documents, including vaccination certificates, during their journey. Those with chronic health conditions are advised to bring medical records and adequate medication in their original packaging.
To mitigate the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika virus and dengue, pilgrims are encouraged to use protective measures, including wearing suitable clothing and applying insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535, or Icaridin.
These measures reflect Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of visitors to Makkah and Madinah for Umrah.
Separately, on Monday, 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 the agreement, 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Hajj this year. The pact includes provisions for improved facilities, such as unique accommodation in Mina at reduced rates. Pilgrims will also have the option to stay in Madinah for 4 to 8 days.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Saudi minister assured Pakistan of full support to enhance services for its pilgrims. Each pilgrim will receive a specially designed bag containing a Pakistani flag, a QR code for identification, and essential information.
Additionally, a special mobile app will be introduced, enabling pilgrims to access all necessary information directly on their smartphones.
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Rules for visitors
No rules for the govt that didn’t check how extreme heat in which tragically numerous hajjis lost their lives.
No one was compensated by the govt of KSA for not taking care of pilgrims well being .
Disgraceful