What vaccinations are required for حج?

The Saudi Ministry of Health updates vaccination requirements annually. The meningococcal meningitis ACWY vaccine is universally mandatory for all حج حجاج — you must receive it at least 10 days before arriving in Saudi Arabia, and it remains valid for up to 3 years (for conjugate vaccines) or 3 years (for polysaccharide vaccines). Without proof of this vaccination, your حج visa may be denied.

Seasonal influenza vaccination is strongly مستحب due to the massive gathering of people from around the world. COVID-19 vaccination requirements have varied year to year, so check the latest Saudi guidelines. Pilgrims arriving from countries in the African meningitis belt require additional meningitis prophylaxis with antibiotics upon arrival.

Pilgrims from countries where polio is endemic or where there is active transmission must show proof of polio vaccination. Similarly, travelers from yellow fever endemic zones in Africa and South America must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. It is wise to also be up to date on routine vaccinations including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus.