Travelling for Hajj 2025 or 2026? Saudi Arabia requires pilgrims to meet strict health rules to protect against disease outbreaks. At Aqua Travel Clinic in London, we specialise in Hajj health preparations—here’s your updated guide for a safe pilgrimage.
Mandatory Vaccines for Hajj 2025/26
- Required for all pilgrims (certificate must be issued ≥10 days before travel).
- Valid for 5 years (check expiry if vaccinated previously).
- Oral polio vaccine (OPV) or proof of immunisation if travelling from high-risk countries.
✅ Seasonal Influenza (Flu)
- Strongly recommended due to crowded conditions.
Strongly Recommended Vaccines
🔹 COVID-19 Boosters – Check Saudi Arabia’s latest entry rules.
🔹 Hepatitis A & B – For food/water safety and medical precautions.
🔹 Typhoid – Protects against contaminated food in busy areas.
🔹 Dengue fever vaccination – Protection against viral infection transmitted by saliva of infected animal. Saudi Arabia has reported risk of domestic animals carrying rabies.
Key Health Risks & Precautions
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MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome)
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Avoid camels and raw camel products (milk, meat).
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Use hand sanitiser frequently in crowded spaces.
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Heat Exhaustion
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Temperatures can exceed 40°C—drink water hourly, wear loose clothing, and seek shade.
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Respiratory Infections
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Wear a mask in dense crowds (e.g., Jamarat Bridge, Tawaf).
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Hajj begins on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and lasts until the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
This year, Hajj is is expected to take place between 4th June 2025 to the 9th June 2025 in the Gregorian Calendar, depending on the sighting of the moon.
How to Prepare with Aqua Travel Clinic
- Book Early – Appointments fill fast! Schedule 6–8 weeks pre-travel.
- Health Check – Review pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart issues).
- Travel Kit – We provide rehydration sachets, wound care packs, and health certificates.
Saudi Arabia’s 2025/26 Entry Rules
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E-Visas must include proof of meningitis and polio vaccines.
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Health Insurance is mandatory—ensure it covers emergencies in Mecca/Medina.
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COVID-19 – PCR tests may be required; check updates here.
FAQs
Q: Can I get vaccinated last-minute for Hajj?
*A: Meningitis requires 10 days pre-travel—don’t delay!*
Q: Are children exempt from vaccines?
A: No—Saudi rules apply to all pilgrims, including infants.
Q: Do you provide Arabic health certificates?
A: Yes, we issue WHO-compliant documents in Arabic/English.