Saudi Arabia Announces New Medical Rules for Hajj Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new set of medical rules for Hajj 2026, placing strict limits on which pilgrims will be allowed to travel.

The Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that anyone arriving in the Kingdom without meeting the required health standards will be sent back to their home country, and the repatriation cost will be paid by the pilgrim.

The ministry also warned that doctors issuing fitness certificates to ineligible applicants will face action. According to the guidelines released by the Saudi Ministry of Health, several categories of pilgrims will not be allowed to participate in next year’s pilgrimage.

People suffering from kidney diseases, including those who require dialysis, have been declared ineligible. Heart patients who cannot withstand physical exertion have also been barred.

Saudi Arabia further ruled out applicants with chronic liver or lung diseases, severe neurological disorders, psychiatric illnesses, dementia, weak memory, and major physical disabilities. Elderly individuals with advanced age-related conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s will not be permitted either.

The list also excludes pregnant women and anyone diagnosed with whooping cough, tuberculosis, viral haemorrhagic fevers or cancer. These conditions, Saudi authorities said, pose serious risks during the physically demanding pilgrimage.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs said medical teams will screen pilgrims before departure, and Saudi inspectors will recheck fitness certificates on arrival. Only those who meet the mandatory health criteria will be allowed to proceed to the holy sites.

The post Saudi Arabia Announces New Medical Rules for Hajj Pilgrims appeared first on ProPakistani.

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new set of medical rules for Hajj 2026, placing strict limits on which pilgrims will… Read More

The post Saudi Arabia Announces New Medical Rules for Hajj Pilgrims appeared first on ProPakistani.