Saudi Arabia Mandates Meningitis Vaccine for Travellers This February

Starting February 1st, 2025, Saudi Arabia will require all travellers - including Umrah and Hajj pilgrims - to present a certificate of vaccination against meningitis. This regulation applies to anyone aged two years and older and aims to protect public health during large gatherings.

The mandatory vaccine is Tetravalent meningococcal (ACYW135) and must be administered at least 10 days prior to travel. The vaccination certificate will be required for all visa types, including tourism, business, and pilgrimage, and will remain valid for three years.

Travellers from high-risk regions, such as the meningitis belt in Africa, will receive preventive treatment upon arrival. Nationals from certain countries, including Pakistan, Syria and Yemen, must also provide a polio vaccination certificate, with an additional dose administered upon entry.

Travellers are advised to consult their doctors, plan vaccinations in advance, and secure an international vaccination certificate to meet these requirements.