JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has made the meningococcal vaccine mandatory for all pilgrims participating in Hajj 2025. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has said that both Saudi citizens and international pilgrims must get vaccinated or they will not be allowed to perform Hajj.
The ministry further clarified that Hajj registration and package booking will not proceed for those who fail to provide proof of vaccination. The step has been taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among pilgrims.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has also issued a directive requiring all Hajj pilgrims to carry valid health documents, including vaccination certificates.
On the other hand, Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain had recently announced a reduction in Hajj expenses. The 40-day Hajj package has been reduced by Rs. 25,000, bringing it to Rs. 1,050,000 with a third installment of Rs. 450,000
The short 25-day package saw Rs. 50,000 deducted, along with a third installment of Rs. 1,100,000. The 500,000 pilgrims will have to deposit the final payment between February 6 and 14.
Furthermore, Rs. 4.75 billion will be refunded to Hajj pilgrims from 2024 onwards, amounting to Rs. 100000000000000. 20,000 to Rs. 140,000 based on airfare and accommodation expenses. The refund will be made through designated banks within two days.
