UAE Announces New Health Requirements for Hajj 2026 — Mandatory Vaccines & Medical Fitness Checks
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued new and comprehensive health requirements for Hajj 2026, ensuring that all pilgrims perform their religious journey safely and with proper medical fitness.
The announcement was made by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat (GAIAEZ), highlighting that the safety and well-being of UAE pilgrims remain the country’s top national priority.
These updated rules come as part of coordination between the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has recently released the official medical and vaccination criteria for Hajj 1447H / 2026.
Strict Health Rules for Hajj 2026
According to the new advisory, all individuals planning to perform Hajj or seasonal work during the 2026 season must now submit a health declaration form. This declaration confirms that the applicant is free from any disease or medical condition that could prevent the safe performance of Hajj rituals.
Health Conditions That Disqualify Participation
The Saudi and UAE authorities have listed several health conditions that automatically disqualify an applicant from participating in Hajj 2026:
- Heart, kidney, or liver failure
- Severe neurological or psychological disorders
- Advanced dementia or memory loss
- Late-stage pregnancy
- Contagious diseases (such as pulmonary tuberculosis or hemorrhagic fevers)
- Active cancers currently under treatment
These guidelines are meant to protect both individual pilgrims and the broader community, preventing potential health emergencies during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
Mandatory Vaccinations for UAE Pilgrims
The UAE government has made several vaccines compulsory for all pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia in 2026.
Required Vaccines:
- Meningococcal vaccine (against meningitis)
- Seasonal influenza vaccine
Recommended Vaccines:
- COVID-19 booster dose (depending on health condition)
- Other region-specific vaccines based on medical assessment
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and GAIAEZ will jointly ensure that all registered pilgrims complete their vaccination schedules before receiving final Hajj approval.
All vaccines must be administered at least 15 days before departure, and proof must be uploaded to the official Hajj registration portal.
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Over 72,000 UAE Citizens Apply for Hajj 2026
Interest in the Hajj 2026 season remains high across the Emirates. As of October 9, 2025, the GAIAEZ confirmed that over 72,000 Hajj applications had been received through the official website and the smart Hajj app.
Out of these, only 6,228 slots have been allocated to UAE nationals under Saudi Arabia’s official quota. The selection process follows Cabinet Resolution No. 32 of 2018, which governs Hajj and Umrah pilgrim management.
Selection Procedure
- Initial screening and health verification
- Preliminary approval notification via SMS or email
- Completion of vaccination and medical documents
- Final issuance of official Hajj permits
Pilgrims who fail to meet health or vaccination standards may lose eligibility even after initial approval.
UAE Ministry Launches ‘Healthy Hajj’ Awareness Guide
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has introduced a new digital and printed awareness guide titled “Healthy Hajj.”
This initiative provides detailed health and safety advice for pilgrims to help them prevent heat stress, dehydration, fatigue, and infectious diseases during their journey.
Key Recommendations from the Healthy Hajj Guide:
- Consult a doctor before travel to confirm medical fitness.
- Carry a sufficient supply of prescribed medicines.
- Keep a medical summary listing conditions and dosages.
- Eat balanced meals to strengthen immunity.
- Exercise regularly three weeks before travel.
- Maintain hydration and hygiene throughout the trip.
The guide also includes a checklist for personal health kits, which every pilgrim should pack.
What to Pack: Essential Health Items for Pilgrims
Health experts strongly recommend carrying a personal medical and hygiene kit, especially for older pilgrims or those with chronic conditions.
Must-Have Items:
- Hand sanitizers and wound disinfectants
- Painkillers and fever reducers
- First aid bandages and plasters
- Vitamins and digestive medicines
- Anti-allergy tablets and creams for insect bites
- Sunscreen, masks, and a thermometer
- Insulated water bottle and umbrella for heat protection
These small steps can make a big difference in ensuring comfort and safety during the pilgrimage.
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Common Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Since the Hajj season in 2026 will fall during peak summer, managing heat exposure is crucial.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or muscle cramps
- Red or dry skin
- Fast heartbeat or breathing difficulty
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
If a pilgrim experiences any of these symptoms, they must rest in a shaded area and drink plenty of fluids immediately.
Tips to Prevent Heat Stress During Hajj
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure during rituals.
- Use light-colored umbrellas or hats.
- Drink water frequently, even if not thirsty.
- Stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Get adequate sleep every night.
- Avoid performing multiple rituals consecutively without rest.
- Use cooling towels and keep wet wipes handy.
These precautions can help pilgrims conserve energy and remain hydrated throughout the journey.
Medical Screening and Coordination
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments confirmed that it will coordinate directly with UAE health authorities to review every applicant’s medical record before final approval.
Medical assessments will be conducted by certified clinics, ensuring that pilgrims are medically fit and meet Saudi Arabia’s health requirements. This process minimizes health emergencies and improves collective safety.
Collaborative Health Efforts Between UAE and Saudi Arabia
The UAE’s strict health regulations reflect the deep coordination with Saudi Arabia, which annually updates its Hajj protocols based on global health data and WHO recommendations.
Saudi Arabia’s advanced Hajj Health Management System tracks infections, monitors crowd safety, and deploys rapid medical response units throughout Makkah and Madinah. The UAE ensures its citizens align with these protocols for smooth entry and safe participation.
Why These Health Measures Matter
Hajj is one of the world’s largest mass gatherings, with millions of pilgrims converging from across the globe. Even minor health oversights can trigger widespread illness or exhaustion.
The UAE’s proactive steps aim to:
- Prevent outbreaks of communicable diseases
- Protect elderly and vulnerable pilgrims
- Ensure compliance with Saudi entry health regulations
- Promote a “Healthy Hajj” culture
Such preventive measures uphold both religious duty and public health responsibility.
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FAQs UAE Announces New Health Requirements for Hajj 2026:
1. What are the UAE’s new health requirements for Hajj 2026?
Pilgrims must submit health declarations, complete vaccinations for meningitis and influenza, and undergo fitness checks approved by UAE health authorities.
2. Which medical conditions disqualify applicants from Hajj 2026?
Organ failure, contagious diseases, advanced dementia, active cancer treatment, and late-stage pregnancy can make an applicant ineligible.
3. How many pilgrims from the UAE will perform Hajj 2026?
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has allotted 6,228 slots for UAE citizens for the upcoming pilgrimage season.
4. What vaccines are mandatory for UAE pilgrims?
The meningococcal vaccine and influenza vaccine are mandatory, while COVID-19 and other vaccines are recommended based on health status.
5. What is the “Healthy Hajj” guide?
A Ministry of Health publication offering preventive advice on diet, hygiene, heat stress, and first aid for UAE pilgrims performing Hajj.
Conclusion – Health Requirements for Hajj 2026
The UAE’s New Health Requirements for Hajj 2026 underline the government’s commitment to safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of its citizens. From mandatory vaccinations and medical fitness checks to the Healthy Hajj guide, every step is designed to guarantee a safe, healthy, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all pilgrims.
As preparations for Hajj 1447H begin, UAE authorities continue to remind applicants:
“Health is part of faith — protect yourself to perform your duty with peace and safety.”
