Umrah: What vaccinations should you have before going to Mecca? (2025)

Are you preparing for your Umrah and wondering which vaccination is required to enter Saudi Arabia? Between rumors, changing rules, and conflicting information, it’s not always easy to get the facts straight. However, getting vaccinated on time is an essential step for a stress-free trip. In this comprehensive article, we explain everything about the meningitis vaccine, other recommended vaccinations, deadlines, and how to plan your trip step by step.

At Mullabbi, we help you experience a smooth Umrah, without stress or unpleasant surprises. And that starts by clearly informing you about the health requirements in effect in 2025.

1. Umrah Vaccine 2025: What is Saudi Arabia saying today?

For several years, the meningitis vaccine (ACWY135) was mandatory for all pilgrims traveling to Mecca or Medina. But since 2023, the rules have changed.

In 2025, the meningitis vaccine is no longer mandatory for travelers from certain countries such as France, Belgium or Switzerland… but it remains strongly recommended by the Saudi authorities.

You are no longer required to present a vaccination certificate at the embassy or when applying for a visa, but it is highly recommended that you get vaccinated for your health and that of others, especially during busy periods.

What you need to know:

• This change does not apply to all countries: if you come from a sub-Saharan African country or a high-risk area, the vaccine remains mandatory.
• Some agencies or airlines may still require it as a precautionary measure.

2. Why is the meningitis vaccine still recommended for Umrah?

Every year, millions of pilgrims from around the world gather in a small space in Mecca. Such gatherings are conducive to the transmission of infectious diseases, including meningococcal meningitis, which can be serious and even fatal.

Even if it is no longer a legal obligation for you:

• You will be better protected in a risky environment.
• You are helping to protect other pilgrims (children, the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, etc.).
• You avoid being denied boarding if an airline decides to maintain this health requirement.

At Mullabbi, we recommend that you make an appointment at an international vaccination center 4 to 6 weeks before your departure.

3. The right vaccine for Umrah: meningitis ACWY135

Technical details:

• The recommended vaccine is the quadrivalent meningitis vaccine (ACWY135).
• It is often marketed under the names Nimenrix, Menveo or Menactra.
• It is valid for 5 years from the date of injection.
• It is injected in a single dose.

Deadlines to be respected:

• The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival in Saudi Arabia to be considered valid.
• If you already had the vaccine less than 5 years ago, you don’t need to do it again, but remember to check the date on your vaccination record.

4. Where to get vaccinated for Umrah?

You can get vaccinated:

• In an approved international vaccination center (list available on the Ministry of Health website)
• In some city vaccination centers, depending on your region
• By your doctor, if the vaccine is available to order

Indicative price: between 40 and 60 euros, not reimbursed by Social Security except in special cases.

You can make an appointment or call the centers near you.

5. What about other vaccines for Umrah?

Although the meningitis vaccine is the most well-known, other vaccines are strongly recommended, especially if you are traveling in a group, with children or vulnerable people.

Recommended vaccines:

6. When should you plan to get vaccinated in relation to your departure?

Here is a small calendar ideal for not being caught short:

While you’re taking care of this part, also remember to book your hotel, flight, and transfer. Mullabbi is with you every step of the way:

• Book your hotel in Mecca or Medina
• Find a cheap plane ticket with our alert system
• Book a private or shared transfer with complete peace of mind
• Find a trusted guide to accompany you
• Access the Saudi e-visa website

7. Is a vaccination certificate required to obtain an Umrah visa?

Currently, the meningitis vaccine is not required to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) through official platforms such as Nusuk or MOFA. However, this may change at any time.

Rule of caution: keep your vaccination record with you, especially if you have a stopover or are traveling with companions of different nationalities.

8. Special cases: pregnant women, children, seniors, etc.

Children :

• The ACWY135 meningitis vaccine can be administered from the age of 2 years.
• Younger children are exempt, but must be protected by accompanying adults.

Pregnant women:

• Vaccination during pregnancy is possible (after the second trimester) if travel is maintained.
• Always ask your doctor for advice.

Seniors or people with pathologies:

• At higher risk of complications → vaccination strongly recommended.
• Also consider the flu vaccine and the DTP booster.

9. What to do if you were unable to get vaccinated?

If you haven’t been vaccinated yet:

• Call a vaccination center quickly; some accept last-minute appointments.
• Check with your doctor, some vaccines are available without too much delay.
• Always keep your vaccination record with you during your trip.

Also continue to follow basic health guidelines: wear a mask in crowded places, wash your hands regularly, and stay hydrated.

10. Mullabbi accompanies you every step of the way

At Mullabbi, we’ve designed a platform just for you, whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, with friends, or alone.

On Mullabbi, you can:

• Compare the best hotels near the Haram or the Prophet’s Mosque
• Easily book an airport-hotel transfer
• Receive alerts on cheap plane tickets
• Read practical articles like this one
• Choose a reliable and well-rated local guide
• Access the specific invocations for Umrah
• And much more

In summary: Omra vaccine, what you need to know

• The ACWY135 meningitis vaccine will no longer be mandatory for French speakers in 2025, but remains strongly recommended.
• It is valid for 5 years, do it at least 10 days before your departure
• Other vaccines (hepatitis, flu, DTP, etc.) are also recommended
• Mullabbi helps you organize an Umrah with complete peace of mind, without an agency

Ready to experience your Umrah with confidence?

• Discover our partner hotels in Mecca and Medina
• Access our reliable and comfortable transfer service
• Receive alerts for the cheapest flight tickets
• Book a experienced guide who knows the area well
• Check the Umrah visa procedures on the official website