The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a health advisory for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage in 2025, emphasizing strict requirements for all intending pilgrims. The guidelines highlight the exclusion of individuals with severe medical conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
According to Muhammad Umar Butt, spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, individuals with serious health issues such as kidney, heart, lung, liver diseases, cancer, dementia, and contagious illnesses like tuberculosis and whooping cough will not be allowed to perform Hajj. The decision comes in response to expected extreme weather conditions during the Hajj season, aiming to protect vulnerable individuals.
The advisory also specifies that children under 12 years of age and pregnant women will be prohibited from participating in Hajj. Additionally, all pilgrims must be vaccinated against meningitis, COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and polio, as required by Saudi health protocols. Only those in good health and physically capable of enduring the challenges of the pilgrimage will be permitted to undertake this sacred journey.
