"Certificate of meningitis vaccination for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims not canceled" – Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee

Reports circulating on social media suggested that the requirement for a meningitis vaccination certificate for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims had been canceled. However, the Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee clarified that this information is incorrect, stating that Saudi Arabia has not officially revoked the requirement for a meningitis vaccination certificate. "In order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases into our country and maintain epidemiological stability, meningitis vaccination is recommended for pilgrims," the Committee's announcement said.

Kun.uz reached out to the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Uzbekistan to clarify the situation. The embassy confirmed that the meningitis vaccination requirement is mandated by the Saudi Ministry of Health and is still in effect. "Tour operators licensed by the Religious Affairs Committee must obtain a vaccination certificate for pilgrims traveling to Umrah. This is a mandatory requirement. However, vaccination is not required for other purposes, such as entry into the Kingdom with tourist visas," said an embassy official.

It is important to note that, as of February 2025, pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah will need to provide proof of meningitis vaccination. This requirement was announced by the Saudi Ministry of Health.