Sick pilgrims to be deported under Saudi Arabia's new Hajj health rules
Pakistan
Saudi Arabia has barred people with serious or contagious illnesses from performing Hajj, with strict penalties for false medical certificates
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a warning to prospective Hajj pilgrims and medical practitioners following a major health directive from the Saudi government.
According to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health, individuals suffering from serious or contagious illnesses will be barred from performing Hajj. The new regulations, set for the Hajj 2026 season, are aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all participants.
Who will be restricted?
The medical conditions listed under the ban include cancer, heart disease, kidney and liver disorders, respiratory illnesses, neurological or psychological ailments, and dementia. Elderly pilgrims with frailty or weak memory have also been excluded. In addition, pregnant women and individuals suffering from whooping cough, tuberculosis, or viral haemorrhagic fevers will not be allowed to undertake the pilgrimage.
Verification and penalties
The Ministry of Religious Affairs further cautioned that any doctor issuing fake or incorrect fitness certificates would face disciplinary action. Pilgrims found to have concealed medical conditions or presented fraudulent certificates may be deported at their own expense.
Saudi authorities have also announced that monitoring teams will be deployed to verify the authenticity of each pilgrim’s medical fitness certificate before allowing entry or participation in Hajj rituals.
