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Are you a US traveler preparing for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia? To ensure your safety and meet Saudi Arabia’s health requirements, here’s everything you need to know about the meningitis vaccination, documentation, and additional travel vaccines for your journey in 2025.
Why US Travelers Need the Meningitis Vaccine for Hajj and Umrah
Hajj’s massive crowds—over two million pilgrims in Mecca—create a perfect storm for infectious diseases like meningococcal meningitis. This bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets and can lead to life-threatening swelling of the brain and blood infection. Cases of meningitis in travelers to Umrah and Hajj, prompted Saudi Arabia to mandate the meningitis vaccine in 2002 for all pilgrims, including those traveling from the US.
Which Meningitis Vaccine Is Required for Saudi Arabia?
For US travelers heading to Hajj or Umrah, Saudi Arabia requires the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), covering strains A, C, W, and Y.
The meningitis vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims aged 2 years and older and needs to be administered at least 10 days before departure. Additionally, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requires the vaccine be given within 3 years of arriving for pilgrimage.
Documentation for Your Hajj or Umrah Visa from the US
A valid meningitis vaccination certificate is essential for your Hajj visa or Umrah visa for entry into Saudi Arabia. Here’s what US travelers need:
- Proof of MenACWY Vaccination: certificate listing your name, vaccine date, type, and the clinic’s official stamp or signature is helpful.
- Visa Submission: Submit the meningitis record with your Hajj visa application
- Travel Tip: Carry the original certificate (or digital copy) when flying from the US as authorities
Other Travel Vaccines for US Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia
Beyond meningitis, additional vaccines and health considerations are recommended by the Saudi Arabia Health Ministry and by the U.S. CDC for travel to Hajj, including hepatitis A and typhoid fever.
Keep in mind, if you plan to travel to regions of Africa, Asia, or Middle East before arriving to Saudi Arabia, the polio and yellow fever vaccinations may be required.
If you’re ready for Hajj and in need of the meningitis vaccine contact Destination Health Clinic today. All of our Massachusetts locations provide the 4 strain meningitis vaccine that meets Hajj and Umrah requirements. Unlike other corporate-run travel clinics, we are locally owned and aim to keep the meningitis vaccine cost affordable. Same-day appointments are often available too, contact us today!
