The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued a notification outlining mandatory health measures and vaccinations for Umrah pilgrims.
According to the notification all travelers must carry essential health documents including vaccination certificates as part of their travel requirements.
The guidelines specify that meningitis vaccination is mandatory for pilgrims arriving from around the world and they will need to present a valid vaccination certificate upon entry into Saudi Arabia.
For travelers from Pakistan, Nigeria, Afghanistan and other affected countries the polio vaccine has been made compulsory. Similarly travelers from Angola, Nigeria, Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo are required to be vaccinated against yellow fever.
The notification also highlights that based on recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) vaccination against COVID-19 and seasonal influenza is essential. Additionally, pilgrims are advised to ensure vaccinations for tetanus measles and other diseases are up to date before traveling.
