In a major relief for Umrah pilgrims, the Saudi government has suspended the requirement for the meningococcal vaccine, allowing travellers to perform Umrah without this previously mandatory immunisation.
The Saudi General Civil Aviation Authority (GACA) has officially informed all airlines about the decision, which reverses a policy implemented on January 7. Now, Pakistani pilgrims and others travelling for Umrah will only need to receive the polio vaccine before departure.
The move is expected to ease travel requirements and streamline the pilgrimage process for millions of Muslims worldwide. While the Saudi government had initially mandated the meningococcal vaccine to protect against bacterial meningitis, its suspension suggests a policy shift aimed at facilitating easier access to religious travel.
Following the Jan 7 announcement, there was a shortage of meningitis vaccine in the country. According to Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan sources, a pharma company had ordered 37,500 additional doses of the vaccine to overcome the shortage of the vaccine. Out of this, 16,000 were sent to the Punjab government, while the rest of the provinces would also be provided as per their needed.
Airlines and travel operators are expected to adjust their guidelines in light of the new directive. However, travellers are advised to stay updated on any health and safety requirements issued by Saudi authorities before embarking on their pilgrimage.
