Travel vaccines for Saudi Arabia
Pilgrims need a meningitis ACWY certificate to get a visa. Book at least two weeks before you travel so the certificate is valid in time.
Vaccines for Saudi Arabia
Book this week to give your vaccines time to work.
Some courses can be speeded up. A yellow fever certificate becomes valid 10 days after your vaccine.
Advised for most travellers
Advised for some travellers, depending on your trip
These are suggestions only and may differ from what our expert clinician advises at your consultation.
Entry rules
- Meningitis ACWY: proof of vaccination is a visa requirement for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and seasonal workers aged 1 year and over. The vaccine must have been given at least 10 days before arrival and within the last 5 years. The record must show your full name and the provider's stamp, and you must carry it with you.
- Saudi Arabia publishes additional health requirements for each Hajj season. Check them before you book.
- A yellow fever certificate is required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Not required if you fly direct from the UK.
Malaria
No risk in the holy cities. Tablets are not advised.
- No risk in Jeddah, Makkah, Medina, Riyadh and Ta'if.
- Very low risk in the south-western provinces along the Yemen border: awareness and bite avoidance.
Other health risks
MERS
This coronavirus is reported in Saudi Arabia, with 17 cases since the start of 2025. Avoid contact with camels, raw camel milk and camel products, and wash your hands often.
Crowds and heat
Respiratory infections spread easily at Hajj. Make sure flu and Covid vaccines are up to date if you are eligible, and plan for extreme heat.
Altitude
Parts of the south-west are above 2,500 metres.
More than one country?
Add each country when you book and we’ll plan for the whole route.
Common questions about Saudi Arabia
What vaccines do I need for Saudi Arabia?+
For most travellers, Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio is advised. Others may be advised depending on your route, how long you stay and what you will be doing. Your pharmacist will only recommend what suits your trip.
Do I need malaria tablets for Saudi Arabia?+
No risk in the holy cities. Tablets are not advised. No risk in Jeddah, Makkah, Medina, Riyadh and Ta'if. Very low risk in the south-western provinces along the Yemen border: awareness and bite avoidance.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate for Saudi Arabia?+
Meningitis ACWY: proof of vaccination is a visa requirement for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and seasonal workers aged 1 year and over. The vaccine must have been given at least 10 days before arrival and within the last 5 years. The record must show your full name and the provider's stamp, and you must carry it with you. Saudi Arabia publishes additional health requirements for each Hajj season. Check them before you book. A yellow fever certificate is required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Not required if you fly direct from the UK.
How far in advance should I get vaccines for Saudi Arabia?+
Ideally six to eight weeks before you fly, so any courses can be finished. If you leave sooner, still book: many vaccines help close to departure.
Summarised from NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro, checked 10 November 2026. Advice can change, so we check it again at your appointment. Clinical content by Lyneham Pharmacy and Travel Clinic (GPhC registered pharmacy 9010716).
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We show some of our most popular destinations here, but we give travel vaccine advice for wherever you’re going. Tell us your route when you book, or give us a call.