Saudi Arabia Announces Updated Hajj Requirements

The Saudi Arabian government has told about new rules for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2024. These rules are made to keep pilgrims healthy and safe during their holy journey. The Ministries of Hajj and Umrah, along with the Health Ministry, have set some important requirements.

Getting Permits and Vaccine Proof

All pilgrims must get a special Hajj permit through the Nusk website. This permit is very important for their pilgrimage to be accepted. They also need to register on the Sehaty app to show proof of their vaccinations.

Vaccination Requirements 

For Pilgrims Living in Saudi Arabia:

• They need to show that they got the COVID-19 vaccine
• They need to show proof that they got the flu vaccine
• They need to have taken the meningitis vaccine in the last 5 years

For International Pilgrims:

• They have to get the meningitis vaccine at least 10 days before coming to Saudi Arabia, but not more than 5 years ago
• They also have to get the polio vaccine

Other Important Rules

– Pilgrims must have a passport that does not expire before June 7, 2024.

– Pilgrims have to be 12 years old or older. 

– Every pilgrim needs to get vaccinated against COVID-19, the flu, and meningitis diseases.

– Pilgrims need to get a certificate from a doctor proving they do not have any sicknesses that can spread to others.

Visa Holders Not Allowed to Enter Makkah

– Saudi Arabia has barred all visit visa holders from entering the holy city of Makkah, effective immediately.

– This new rule is for all foreign visitors who have a regular visit visa. Their nationality does not matter.

– Only people with a residency ID or a special pilgrimage visa for Umrah or Hajj will be allowed to enter Makkah.

– This decision was made to give a great experience to the pilgrims doing their religious activities.

– It will help avoid too many people crowding the holy mosques and places in Makkah during the busy pilgrimage season.

– Saudi authorities want to give top priority to providing good services and facilities for the pilgrims over regular visitors during this time.

Warning Against Fake Operators

The Saudi government warns pilgrims not to use any unauthorized tour operators or fake websites for Hajj. Only registered and approved companies should be used.

Importance of Following Rules

These rules come after Islamic scholars said doing Hajj without a proper permit is a sin. The Saudi authorities want the Hajj rituals to go smoothly and all pilgrims to get good quality services. Following these health and safety rules will make the holy experience safe and spiritually fulfilling for everyone.