The Ministry of Religious Affairs has made polio vaccination mandatory for all Umrah pilgrims, issuing strict guidelines for Umrah operators and airlines to ensure compliance.
According to a spokesperson for the ministry, no pilgrim will be allowed to travel to Saudi Arabia without receiving the polio vaccine. Pilgrims must get vaccinated at least four weeks before departure and obtain a valid certificate. Additionally, the polio vaccine should not be older than six months at the time of travel.
Authorities have warned that non-compliance with these requirements may result in pilgrims being offloaded from flights. "All institutions must strictly enforce the polio vaccination condition, and Umrah pilgrims should ensure they obtain their vaccination certificates on time," the ministry stated.
The government has also announced strict legal action against any violations of these conditions. Umrah operators and airlines have been directed to adhere to these guidelines and ensure that only vaccinated individuals board flights to Saudi Arabia.