Vaccinations for Saudi Arabia
Complete overview of recommended and required vaccinations, health risks and practical information for your trip.
About Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the holy land of Islam with Mecca and Medina as the most important pilgrimage sites. Millions of Muslims visit the country annually for Hajj and Umrah. The country is increasingly opening up to tourism with archaeological sites like Mada'in Saleh and futuristic projects in Riyadh and NEOM.
Health risks
Yellow Fever - Conditional (g1)
Yellow fever is NOT endemic, no risk. Only required when transiting from high-risk area (any transit duration). Not endemic. Required when entering from high-risk area.
Details
Meningococcal ACWY vaccination required for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Dengue vaccination advised for Medina, Jizan and Mecca.
Base vaccinations
Basic vaccination against three serious infectious diseases.
Protects against liver inflammation via contaminated food or water.
Protects against liver inflammation via blood or sexual contact.
Especially important when visiting family or for extended stays.
Additional vaccinations
Consider for contact with animals or remote areas.
Vaccination available for risk areas with dengue.
REQUIRED for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
When to start vaccinating?
Plan your vaccinations ideally 6-8 weeks before departure. Some vaccinations require multiple doses for full protection. For yellow fever, you must be vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival.
Last minute trip? We can often help within the same week. Contact us.
Practical travel information for Saudi Arabia
Best time to travel
November to March is coolest. For Hajj and Umrah the timing follows the Islamic calendar.
Malaria
There is no malaria risk in Mecca, Medina, Jeddah or Riyadh. A limited risk exists in the southwest (Jizan, Asir).
Our advice in short
- Meningococcal ACWY is mandatory for Hajj and Umrah travellers and must be given at least 10 days before arrival.
- The vaccination certificate is required for the Nusuk application and on arrival.
- Hepatitis A, DTP and influenza are advised in addition, given the crowds and group accommodation.
- Bring your international certificate of vaccination - a photo on your phone is not always accepted.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can I get the mandatory meningococcal vaccination?
Often within the same week. Do bear in mind the requirement that the vaccination is given at least 10 days before arrival.
Want to know exactly what you need for Saudi Arabia? Our practitioners provide personal advice - consultation from EUR 25.
Book an appointmentMake appointment
Let our specialists advise you. We create a personal vaccination program for your trip to Saudi Arabia.
Overview Saudi Arabia
- Region: Middle East
- Base vaccinations: 4
- Additional: 3
- Yellow fever: Conditional