The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced a new health policy for Hajj pilgrims, which aligns with updated Saudi government requirements.
Under the new policy, individuals with severe health conditions like cancer, heart, kidney, or respiratory diseases are not allowed to participate in the pilgrimage this year.
Pilgrims must submit a medical certificate verifying their eligibility. Those undergoing dialysis or facing issues like heart attacks, breathing problems, or lung diseases will be restricted from attending.
The policy also bars people with liver failure or serious neurological or psychiatric disorders from Hajj.
The list of restricted conditions further includes physical disabilities, memory loss, and amnesia. Pregnant women beyond seven months, as well as those with communicable diseases like tuberculosis and cancer, are not permitted. Recent infections like influenza, dengue, or COVID-19 also disqualify individuals from performing Hajj.
The new guidelines require pilgrims to have certificates confirming vaccinations for meningitis, influenza, COVID-19, and polio.
The ministry’s health measures are designed to prioritize the safety of all pilgrims amid changing health standards.
