Srinagar, Oct 14 : The Haj Committee of India has notified all selected pilgrims for Haj-2026 G (1447 H) that the Ministry of Haj and Umrah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has issued updated health requirements and immunization guidelines applicable to all pilgrims and workers arriving in the Kingdom for Haj 1447 H (2026 G).
According to the circular, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, all intending pilgrims are required to comply strictly with the following health and immunization requirements as a prerequisite for travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims must be physically fit and free from diseases that hinder their ability to perform Haj rituals or pose a public health risk. The following categories of individuals are not permitted to proceed for Haj 2026 G (1447 H), Patients suffering from major organ failure, such as, Heart failure with symptoms during minimal physical activity.
Persons with severe neurological or psychiatric disorders that impair cognition or cause major motor disability. Elderly pilgrims with dementia. Pregnant women in any stage of pregnancy or within three months of high-risk pregnancy. Persons suffering from active infectious diseases (e.g., open pulmonary tuberculosis, viral hemorrhagic fevers). Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatments.
All pilgrims and seasonal workers must provide proof of immunity or vaccination against COVID-19 prior to travel. Proof of immunity/vaccination shall be any one of the following, At least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine (updated for 2025–2026). Completion of basic COVID-19 vaccination (two or more doses administered during 2021-2024). Laboratory-confirmed recovery from COVID-19 infection during the year 2025 G.
All pilgrims are required to be vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis prior to departure. Any one of the following vaccines must be administered, ensuring compliance with the specified validity period, Conjugate Quadrivalent (ACYW) Vaccine or Pentavalent (ACWXY) Vaccine to be taken at least 10 days before travel, and not earlier than 5 years prior to travel. Polysaccharide Tetravalent (ACYW) Vaccine to be taken at least 10 days before travel, and not earlier than 3 years prior to travel.
Pilgrims are advised to retain the original vaccination certificate as it may be checked by Saudi health authorities at ports of entry.
The health authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia may implement additional preventive measures at airports or entry points based on risk assessment of the countries from which pilgrims are arriving.
Response to International Health Emergencies
In case of a public health emergency of international concern or a disease outbreak, as per International Health Regulations (2005), the Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, may impose additional health measures in coordination with the World Health Organization.
Compliance and Advisory
In view of the above, all pilgrims are advised to, undertake a medical examination before departure to ensure they meet the required fitness standards. Carry vaccination certificates for Meningitis (ACWY) and COVID-19. Follow advisories issued by the Haj Committee of India, State/UT Haj Committees, and Saudi health authorities. Comply with health screening processes and any additional requirements at the time of arrival in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The circular further advises pilgrims to remain updated through official communications issued by the Haj Committee of India and the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India.
Non-compliance with the health and immunization requirements may result in denial of entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or cancellation of Haj travel. (KNC)
