Qatar Lists Hajj 2025 Vaccination Rules for Pilgrims
Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health has released updated Hajj 2025 vaccination rules, focusing on mandatory and recommended shots to protect pilgrims from health risks.
Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has officially released the list of required vaccines for citizens joining the 1446 AH (2025) Hajj pilgrimage. The move is part of the country's efforts to keep pilgrims safe from infectious diseases during the holy journey to Saudi Arabia.
The meningococcal (ACYW-135) vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims this year.
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The COVID-19 vaccine is required for high-risk individuals, including:
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Pilgrims aged 65 and above
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Pregnant women
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People with chronic conditions such as heart, kidney, or lung diseases
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Individuals with hereditary blood disorders or weakened immune systems
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Those with cancer or neurological diseases
COVID-19 Vaccine: What Counts as Protected?
MoPH clarified that a person is considered immunized against COVID-19 if they meet at least one of the following:
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Received a dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine for 2024–2025
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Completed at least two primary doses from 2021 to 2023
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Recovered from a confirmed COVID-19 case in 2024
The ministry also recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 18 and above, as well as the seasonal flu vaccine for all travelers.
Extra Protection for High-Risk Groups
Pilgrims aged 65 and older, and those aged 18 to 64 with chronic illnesses, are also advised to get the pneumococcal vaccine. People with diabetes, respiratory or heart diseases, kidney failure, sickle cell anemia, or who are smokers are especially encouraged to take this shot.
The RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine is also suggested for people aged 60 and above.
Vaccines Available at Health Centers Nationwide
All required Hajj vaccines are available at primary healthcare centers across Qatar. The ministry advises pilgrims to get vaccinated at least 10 days before traveling to Saudi Arabia.
MoPH Urges Early Prep and Medical Consults
Dr. Hamad Eid Al Rumaihi, Director of the Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control Department, reminded all pilgrims—especially those with chronic conditions—to consult their doctor ahead of time and prepare enough medication for the trip.
He emphasized that crowded areas during Hajj increase the chance of spreading infectious diseases, and early prevention is key.
Pilgrim’s Health Guide Now Available
To help pilgrims stay safe and informed, the MoPH, in partnership with the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and Qatar Red Crescent Society, has published a Pilgrim’s Health Guide. The guide includes tips to follow before, during, and after the pilgrimage.
For more info, travelers can call 16000 or visit the Ministry of Public Health’s website to access the full health guide.