What is Hajj?

Hajj is the major Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca and one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able to do so is expected to perform Hajj once in their lifetime. The rituals commemorate key events in Islamic tradition, including those associated with Ibrahim/Abraham, Hajar/Hagar, and the pilgrimage of the Prophet Muhammad.

The pilgrimage takes place in and around Mecca in Saudi Arabia and lasts five to six days. It includes visits to Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, among other sites. The rituals include standing on the plain of Arafat, spending the night in Muzdalifah, and the symbolic stoning of the Jamarat. Pilgrims then return to Mecca. Hajj is a spiritual obligation and, for many Muslims, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Health risks during Hajj

During the Hajj pilgrimage, pilgrims are in close proximity to around two million people. These large crowds increase the risk of transmission and infection with various diseases that spread through close contact.

Some vaccinations are required for entry into Saudi Arabia or participation in Hajj, while others are recommended from a travel medicine perspective.

For Hajj 2026, a valid vaccination against meningococcal ACWY disease is mandatory for all pilgrims. The vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia. A conjugate ACWY vaccine is valid for up to five years, while a polysaccharide vaccine is valid for up to three years.

Depending on the country of origin or travel route, additional vaccination certificates may be required. Pilgrims arriving from regions where wild polioviruses or vaccine-derived poliovirus are circulating must, according to Saudi regulations, provide valid proof of vaccination against poliomyelitis. A yellow fever vaccination is also required for pilgrims aged 9 months and older if they are travelling from an area where yellow fever occurs. Regardless of this, polio protection should be reviewed as part of a pre-travel medical consultation and refreshed if necessary.

In addition, vaccination against COVID-19 and seasonal influenza is recommended. From a travel medicine perspective, routine vaccinations should also be checked, especially diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles/mumps/rubella, and — depending on individual risk — hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and pneumococcal disease.

Respiratory infections

Due to the large crowds and close contact with pilgrims from all over the world, respiratory infections can spread particularly easily. These include common colds, influenza, COVID-19, and other viral infections. Anyone who develops fever, a severe cough, or other significant symptoms before departure should seek medical advice and clarify whether it is safe to travel.

During the journey, anyone who is coughing, has a fever, or feels unwell should keep their distance where possible, wear a mask, and pay particular attention to good cough and hand hygiene. Avoiding shared water bottles, cups, or cutlery can also help protect against the transmission of infections.

Heat Stroke

As Hajj 2026 takes place at the end of May, and temperatures in Saudi Arabia can already be very high at this time of year, pilgrims are at risk of heatstroke. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, or an elevated body temperature. At the first signs of heat-related illness, it is important to seek help immediately. Preventive measures include drinking enough fluids, avoiding direct sunlight, and spending the hottest hours of the day in shaded or air-conditioned areas whenever possible.

Traveler’s diarrhea

Food poisoning is one of the most common health problems among pilgrims. Common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps or pain
• Fever
• Diarrhea

Protect yourself from traveler’s diarrhea by following the golden rule: “Cook it, boil it, peel it or leave it.” Avoid ice cubes and drink only sealed bottled mineral water. This should also be used for brushing your teeth. Eat only foods that have been thoroughly cooked or fried and are served hot. Avoid salads, unpeeled fruit, and foods containing raw eggs. Also pay attention to good hand hygiene: wash your hands with soap before eating or use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available.

Tips For Staying Healthy During Hajj

Hajj is an emotional, spiritual, and physical challenge that can test patience, endurance, and resilience. That is why it is important to prepare well for this demanding but rewarding experience.

Seek travel medicine advice early

Anyone with chronic medical conditions, anyone who takes regular medication, pregnant people, or people with a weakened immune system should seek travel medicine advice early. Older pilgrims should also prepare their journey carefully and clarify whether any special precautions are necessary. Bring enough medication with you, ideally in its original packaging in your hand luggage, and carry important medical documents or prescriptions with you.

Prepare For Physical Exertions

During Hajj, pilgrims often cover long distances on foot. For people who do not walk much in everyday life or spend a lot of time sitting, this can be physically challenging. Begin preparing with regular walks in advance so your body can better cope with the long and demanding days.

Drink Plenty of Water

Because of the long walks, physical exertion and high temperatures during Hajj, it is important to drink plenty of water — ideally mixed with some electrolytes. With so many activities taking place, this can easily be forgotten, but adequate hydration is essential for maintaining health during this time.

Prioritize Hygiene

Wash or disinfect your hands frequently, especially before and after eating, after using the toilet and after coughing or sneezing. Another way to prevent the spread of disease is to avoid hugging or shaking hands with people you do not know.

Safety During Hajj

For many Muslims, Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime and deeply meaningful journey. Good preparation is essential to help pilgrims experience it as healthily as possible. This includes seeking travel medicine advice early, checking the necessary vaccinations, being mindful of heat, practising good hygiene, and taking care with food and drinking water.

Seek advice well before your journey so that vaccinations, personal risks, and important precautions can be discussed individually.

References

Nusuk. (n.d.). Hajj health guidelines. Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Retrieved April 28, 2026, from https://hajj.nusuk.sa/nusuk/health/guidelines

SACRED JOURNEYS WITH BRUCE FEILER | The Hajj. (2023). https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/sacredjourneys/content/the-hajj/

Hajj and Umrah Health Requirements | The Embassy of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (2023). https://www.saudiembassy.net/hajj-and-umrah-health-requirements

Morris A, Patel G. Heat Stroke. [Updated 2022 Apr 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537135/

Food poisoning. (2023). https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/food-poisoning