Umrah 2025: Meningitis Vaccine now mandatory for all pilgrims
All Umrah pilgrims must get the vaccine at least 10 days before arriving in Saudi Arabia
Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has mandated that all Umrah pilgrims must receive a meningitis vaccine at least 10 days before their departure. This requirement is part of the latest health guidelines for travellers to Saudi Arabia for Umrah.
Travel agents have confirmed to Gulf News that the meningitis vaccine is now a compulsory health requirement for all Umrah pilgrims, with the rule coming into effect from February 10.
Mandatory vaccination requirements
To ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s health regulations, all Umrah pilgrims must adhere to the following requirements:
Receive either the Meningococcal ACYWX (polysaccharide conjugate) vaccine or the Meningococcal quadrivalent (ACYW-135) polysaccharide vaccine.
The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The requirement applies to all travellers aged one year and older from all countries.
Health authorities in the traveller’s country of origin must verify the vaccine administration within the validity period and clearly indicate the name, type, and date of administration on the traveller’s vaccination certificate.
The vaccination certificate is valid for three years.
Understanding Meningitis
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by an infection. It can be fatal and requires urgent medical care. The disease can be triggered by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, with bacterial meningitis being the most severe form.
Meningitis is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from an infected person. Common symptoms include:
Neck stiffness
Fever
Confusion or altered mental status
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Where to get vaccinated
In the UAE, both public health facilities and private hospitals and clinics offer the required vaccinations for Hajj, Umrah, and other travel destinations with mandatory immunisation policies. It is advisable to schedule a pre-travel consultation at least one month before departure to allow sufficient time for vaccinations and other preventive measures to take effect.
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