The Saudi government has lifted the mandatory requirement for the meningococcal vaccine, permitting travelers to undertake Umrah without prior immunization.
The Saudi General Civil Aviation Authority (GACA) has formally notified all airlines regarding this decision, which reverses a policy that was put into effect on January 7.
Consequently, Pakistani pilgrims and other individuals traveling for Umrah will now only be required to receive the polio vaccine prior to their departure.
This decision by the Saudi government is anticipated to simplify travel requirements and enhance the pilgrimage experience for millions of Muslims globally.
Although the meningococcal vaccine was initially mandated to safeguard against bacterial meningitis, its suspension indicates a shift in policy aimed at making religious travel more accessible.
Following the announcement on January 7, the country experienced a shortage of meningitis vaccines.
Sources from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan indicated that a pharmaceutical company had placed an order for an additional 37,500 doses to address the vaccine shortage.
