Saudi Arabia has made meningococcal vaccination compulsory for all personnel participating in the 2026 Hajj season before beginning official duties, as authorities intensify preventive health measures aimed at limiting the spread of infectious diseases during the annual pilgrimage.
The announcement was made by Abdulaziz Abdulbaqi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, who said the decision followed directives issued by the Supreme Hajj Committee to strengthen health preparedness in crowded areas hosting millions of pilgrims from around the world.
According to Abdulbaqi, the meningococcal vaccine plays a critical role in protecting workers and pilgrims against serious bacterial infections that can spread rapidly in densely populated environments. He added that the approved vaccine remains valid for five years, meaning personnel who received the dose within that period would not need another vaccination under existing regulations.
The ministry clarified that obtaining the vaccine has now become a mandatory requirement for securing a Hajj work permit. Officials also advised workers to receive the vaccination at least 10 days before starting duties to ensure full effectiveness during the pilgrimage season.
In addition, Saudi health authorities encouraged personnel to complete other recommended immunisations, particularly seasonal influenza and updated COVID-19 vaccines. Abdulbaqi stated that individuals who had not received the updated COVID-19 booster introduced in 2025 to address newer variants were strongly encouraged to do so ahead of Hajj.
The ministry further revealed that it had coordinated with healthcare providers across security, military and university institutions to administer Hajj-related vaccinations directly at workplaces in order to improve accessibility and increase compliance among workers.
Authorities also instructed personnel to book vaccination appointments through the Sehhaty app using the “Adult Vaccination Clinic” service as part of the nationwide health preparation campaign for Hajj 2026.
