Qatar Issues Health Guidelines for Umrah Travelers to Saudi

Vaccination requirements and recommendations aim to ensure safe pilgrimages.

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Qatar Issues Health Guidelines for Umrah Travelers to Saudi

Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health has announced updated health guidelines for citizens and residents traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or visiting the Prophet's Mosque. These measures are designed to protect the well-being of pilgrims and visitors.

Meningococcal Vaccine Now Mandatory

All travelers, including children aged one year and older, must receive the meningococcal (quadrivalent ACYW-135) vaccine at least 10 days before their trip. This vaccination is now compulsory and is part of broader efforts to prevent disease during the pilgrimage.

Access to Vaccines at PHCC Centers

The Ministry confirmed that all required vaccines for Hajj and Umrah are available at Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) centers. Citizens and residents, especially those at higher risk of illness, are encouraged to follow health recommendations to minimize exposure to diseases.

Additional Recommendations

Saudi authorities advise pilgrims to receive COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccines, though these are not mandatory. Meanwhile, travelers from regions affected by specific health risks face additional vaccination requirements:

- Polio vaccine: Required for those arriving from countries where wild poliovirus or vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is present.

- Yellow fever vaccine: Mandatory for travelers from areas where yellow fever is circulating.

The updated guidelines ensure a safer and healthier pilgrimage experience while complying with Saudi health regulations. Pilgrims are urged to complete their vaccinations well in advance to avoid any last-minute disruptions.

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Qatar Issues Health Guidelines for Umrah Travelers to Saudi

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