What Vaccine Do You Need for Umrah?

To enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah, all pilgrims must present proof of a meningococcal meningitis (MenACWY) vaccination.

• Only one dose is needed.
• It must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival in Saudi Arabia.
• The certificate is valid for 5 years.

We’ll provide you with the official Umrah vaccination certificate, accepted for visa and entry purposes. If you’re travelling soon and haven’t had your vaccine, contact us today for urgent support.

If you have less than 10 days before travel and have not yet been vaccinated, contact us at Blackpool Express Chemist as soon as possible. Our travel health team will advise you on your options.

Why Is the Meningitis Vaccine Required for Umrah?

Meningococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection that spreads easily in crowded conditions—especially during Umrah, when pilgrims gather from around the world. Vaccination protects you and others from life-threatening illness and is a mandatory requirement set by the Saudi Ministry of Health.

What Is Meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Bacterial meningitis is the most severe and can progress rapidly if untreated.

Symptoms of Meningococcal Meningitis:

• Headache and fever
• Stiff neck and light sensitivity
• Vomiting or nausea
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Rash that doesn’t fade when pressed

This is why early protection through vaccination is essential before travelling for Umrah.

How Many Doses Do I Need?

For Umrah travel, a single dose of the MenACWY vaccine is required.

• Offers protection for up to 5 years
• Must be given 10+ days before entering Saudi Arabia
• Includes an official vaccination certificate for your visa

What Are the Side Effects of the Umrah Vaccine?

The MenACWY vaccine is safe and well-tolerated. Side effects, if any, are usually mild and short-lived and include mild swelling or redness at the injection site, slight fever or fatigue, headache or muscle aches.

Severe reactions are very rare. If you experience breathing difficulties or facial swelling after the jab, seek medical help immediately.

Do I Need Any Other Vaccines for Umrah?

While the meningitis vaccine is the only mandatory vaccination for Umrah, the following are strongly recommended:

• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio) – Ensure your routine UK immunisations are up to date.
• Yellow Fever Vaccine – Required if arriving from high-risk countries.
• Polio Vaccine – Required in certain circumstances based on your travel route.

Speak to our travel health team to assess your full vaccination needs before travelling.

For those travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, it is strongly recommended that all routine UK immunisations are up to date. These include vaccinations against tetanus, diphtheria, and polio.

If you need any more information or want to address a concern, contact us. 

Why Book Your Umrah Vaccination with Us?

At Blackpool Express Chemist, we offer:

• Same-day appointments for last-minute travellers
• Private, certified Umrah vaccinations in Blackpool
• Expert travel health advice from qualified pharmacists
• A valid MenACWY certificate issued on the spot

Whether you’re preparing in advance or need help urgently, we’re here to make your Umrah journey safe, smooth, and fully compliant with Saudi Arabia’s health regulations.