Hajj Visa: 2026 Ban for Applicants with Certain Diseases
Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter medical regulations for the upcoming Hajj 2026 (1447H), barring individuals suffering from specific chronic or severe illnesses from applying for the pilgrimage visa. The new rules aim to ensure the safety of all pilgrims and reduce health risks during the physically demanding annual event.
According to reports from The Week and official health authorities, the banned categories include individuals with severe heart disease, advanced kidney failure, uncontrolled diabetes, terminal cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, and mental disorders that impair physical mobility or judgment. Pilgrims with contagious or immunocompromising conditions are also likely to be disqualified.
The Saudi Ministry of Health, in coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, stated that these health measures are necessary to prevent medical emergencies and infectious outbreaks during the pilgrimage, which attracts millions of worshippers each year.
All Hajj applicants are now required to submit a medical fitness certificate from an authorised healthcare facility. In addition, several mandatory vaccinations must be completed before travel, including:
- Quadrivalent meningococcal (ACYW135) vaccine
- Seasonal influenza vaccine
- Polio vaccination (for travellers from at-risk countries)
- COVID-19 vaccination, where applicable
Health officials emphasised that the extreme heat, long walking distances, and high crowd density during Hajj pose significant challenges even for healthy pilgrims. The new policy is intended to protect both individual participants and the wider pilgrim community.
Authorities have advised prospective applicants to undergo comprehensive medical screening before submitting their visa applications. Those with chronic health issues are encouraged to postpone their pilgrimage until their conditions are stable.