Pilgrims should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK. These vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccines.
Required vaccinations -Meningococcal disease
All travellers arriving for Hajj or for seasonal work in Hajj zones must have proof of vaccination with a quadrivalent (ACWY) meningococcal vaccine received at least 10 days prior to the planned arrival to Hajj and Umrah areas .
If vaccine type is not indicated on the certificate, it will be considered valid for three years from the date of vaccination.
In addition to vaccination, pilgrims should be advised to practice good hand hygiene and to avoid activities that promote exchange of respiratory secretions, such as sharing drinks and eating utensils.
The meningococcal ACWY vaccines do not protect against all causes of meningitis and septicemia; any pilgrim who becomes unwell, after returning from the Hajj or Umrah should contact their GP, NHS 111 or local hospital.
Details of the requirements and recommendations for Umrah 1447H (2026), including required and recommended vaccinations and general health advice are expected to be available from the KSA authorities soon. https://umrah.nusuk.sa/
Addititonal and detailed healthcare advice can be found at TravelHealthpro website. https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/19/hajj-and-umrah
