Health & Safety Tips for Hajj and Umrah

Hajj and Umrah are physically demanding: long walks, heat, crowds and changes in food and sleep. A little preparation keeps you healthy so you can make the most of every moment in the Haramain.

Before You Travel

• Meningitis vaccine: The quadrivalent (ACYW) meningococcal vaccine is required by Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Take it at least 10 days before arrival and keep the certificate.
• Seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses.
• Get a full health check-up if you are over 60 or have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or asthma.
• Start walking 3–5 km daily a month before travel to build stamina.
• Carry enough medicine for the whole trip, with a doctor’s prescription.

Beat the Heat

• Drink water and Zamzam regularly, even when not thirsty. Add ORS if you sweat a lot.
• Use an umbrella (allowed in Ihram) and unscented sunscreen.
• Plan rituals and Ziyarat for early morning or night.
• Rest in your hotel between Dhuhr and Asr during summer.
• Recognise heat exhaustion: dizziness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating. Move to shade, drink water and seek help.

Foot Care

You may walk 10–15 km a day. Wear broken-in footwear, keep feet dry, apply Vaseline to areas that rub, and treat blisters early with plasters. Diabetic pilgrims should check their feet every day.

Crowd Safety

• Always carry your hotel card and group leader’s number.
• Agree on a fixed meeting point (e.g. a numbered gate of the Haram) in case you get separated.
• Avoid pushing towards the Black Stone or Rawdah during peak times.
• Keep children close; write your phone number on a wristband for them.
• Use upper floors for Tawaf and Sa‘i when the ground floor is very crowded.

Food & Hygiene

• Eat freshly cooked food; avoid food that has been left out.
• Wash hands often or use sanitiser.
• Wear a mask in crowds – respiratory infections (“Hajj cough”) are common.
• Get enough sleep – fatigue weakens immunity.

Tips for Elderly & Differently-Abled Pilgrims

• Free wheelchairs are available at designated Haram gates; paid wheelchairs with pushers and electric carts are also available.
• Wheelchair-friendly paths exist on the upper floors for Tawaf and dedicated lanes for Sa‘i.
• Choose a hotel close to the Haram to reduce walking.
• Travel with a companion who can assist with rituals.

For Diabetic Pilgrims

Carry glucose tablets, a glucometer and snacks. Keep insulin cool using a cooling pouch, monitor sugar levels more often, and inform your group leader about your condition.