Attention Bahraini Umrah travelers!

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini citizens planning trips to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or to visit major cities face a new travel requirement: mandatory meningitis vaccination.

Travel agencies across Bahrain are issuing urgent advisories, urging prospective travelers to secure the necessary vaccination well in advance of their departure dates.

This follows a recent announcement from the Saudi Ministry of Health mandating proof of vaccination for entry into the Kingdom, effective February 10, 2025.

The new regulation significantly expands the scope of the meningitis vaccination requirement.

While previously limited to Hajj pilgrims, the Saudi Ministry of Health’s directive now extends to all individuals intending to visit Mecca, Medina, Jeddah, and Taif.

This broadened mandate underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to public health and the prevention of the spread of meningococcal disease.

The deadline for compliance is stringent. Travelers must present proof of vaccination at least 10 days prior to their arrival in Saudi Arabia. Travel dates This necessitates proactive planning and scheduling of vaccination appointments well in advance of intended travel dates.

According to announcements from Bahraini travel agencies, they are actively informing clients of the Saudi Ministry of Health’s decision to require the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine for all adults and children over one year old.

The vaccine is available free of charge at government health centers in Bahrain.

The Saudi Ministry of Health’s directive specifies that the vaccination certificate must be issued no less than 10 days and no more than three years prior to arrival (for the polysaccharide vaccine) or five years (for the conjugate vaccine).

Failure to comply will likely result in entry denial. Bahraini citizens planning trips to Saudi Arabia are urged to contact their healthcare providers or local health centers to receive the necessary vaccination well in advance of their travel dates to ensure compliance with the new regulations.