Official Health Rules Announced for 2026 Hajj Pilgrims
Valid vaccination certificates for COVID-19, meningitis, polio and yellow fever are required for entry.

Saudi health authorities have released updated health guidelines for those planning to undertake the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage (1447 AH), placing stronger emphasis on vaccination compliance and physical fitness to safeguard public health.
Under the new regulations, all pilgrims and Hajj workers must present valid vaccination certificates for COVID-19, meningococcal meningitis (ACWY), polio, and yellow fever before travelling. For COVID-19, vaccination must come from Saudi-approved vaccines, with the most recent dose administered between 2021 and 2025, and at least two weeks before departure.
The meningococcal vaccine must be administered no more than five years and no less than 10 days before entry into Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims from countries still under polio watch—such as Nigeria—must receive a dose of either IPV or OPV at least four weeks before travel, with proof recorded on the International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card). Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers aged nine months and older.
Beyond vaccines, the rules reinforce that only pilgrims in good health will be permitted to travel. Those with major organ failure, advanced chronic illnesses, mental or neurological disorders, high-risk pregnancies, active infectious diseases, or ongoing cancer treatment will be disqualified.
To enforce compliance, Saudi authorities will carry out health screenings at all entry points. Travellers who fail to meet the standards may be denied entry, isolated, or asked to undergo further evaluation.