Terms regarding health conditions for Hajj 2026 have been published

Health requirements and recommendations have been defined for pilgrims traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia next year.

As reported by the press service of the Caucasus Muslim Board (CMB), the relevant document was prepared by the Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the aim of establishing sanitary standards and preventive measures for pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah.

The document outlines the following requirements and recommendations:

General Health Requirements

Special attention is given to the health and safety of pilgrims. In this regard, it is not recommended for persons suffering from infectious or publicly dangerous diseases to perform the pilgrimage.

Persons with the following should refrain from traveling to Hajj:

chronic heart, kidney, or lung diseases;

chronic diseases of the central nervous system (for example, stroke consequences);

diabetes, immunodeficiency, or other diseases that reduce the body's resistance;

pregnant women;

children and elderly people;

patients undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from oncological diseases.

Measures Against Infectious Diseases

For pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia, COVID-19 vaccination may be mandatory.

The vaccination must be done with one of the vaccines approved in Saudi Arabia.

Vaccination must be conducted no later than 10 days before travel and no earlier than 12 months.

Depending on the epidemiological situation, Saudi Arabian authorities may introduce additional requirements.

Mandatory Vaccinations

a) Meningococcal infection (meningitis - ACWY)

Vaccination is mandatory for all pilgrims.

Quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (ACWY) is required.

The vaccination must be done at least 10 days before entry into the country, but no earlier than three years.

An international vaccination certificate must be presented.

b) Other (recommended) vaccinations

against seasonal influenza;

against yellow fever and poliomyelitis - for pilgrims arriving from countries where these diseases are prevalent.

Border and Medical Control

Pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia may undergo medical examination at entry points.

Medical documents and vaccination certificates will be checked.

If necessary, additional preventive and sanitary measures may be applied.

General Health Recommendations

Observe personal hygiene and food safety rules.

During the pilgrimage, ensure adequate water consumption, protect yourself from heat, and maintain a rest regimen.

Follow the instructions of group leaders and medical personnel.

In crowded places, it is recommended to use medical masks.

If symptoms of illness appear, seek medical help immediately.

Additional Notes

The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia may subsequently introduce new requirements and vaccinations, taking into account the international epidemiological situation.

These decisions will be updated based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO).