The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah issued a crucial warning for pilgrims planning Hajj in 2024. They cautioned against fake Hajj companies that advertise on social media. Remember, a valid Hajj visa obtained through Saudi authorities or official channels is mandatory.
The Ministry urged pilgrims to be wary of unauthorized operators and fake websites. To ensure a safe and legitimate Hajj experience, they stressed the importance of using officially approved channels to arrange pilgrimage plans. Dealing with recognized organizations protects your rights and guarantees a genuine opportunity to perform Hajj.
For domestic pilgrims, the Ministry recommends using their official website, LOCALHAJ.HAJ.GOV.SA, and the “NUSUK” app to arrange their Hajj. The “Nusuk-Hajj” platform caters to international pilgrims from Europe, the Americas, Australia, and select Asian and African countries. Official Hajj missions and companies are also included on this platform.
This warning comes after the Ministry’s recent announcement regarding health requirements for this year’s Hajj. All pilgrims within Saudi Arabia must have specific vaccinations documented in the “Sehaty” application. These include a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, the 2024 flu vaccine, and a meningitis vaccine administered within the past five years.
For international pilgrims, the mandatory vaccine is Neisseria meningitis. It must be administered at least 10 days, but no more than five years, before arrival in Saudi Arabia. Your home country’s health authorities should confirm the vaccination details, including type and date, on your certificate. Finally, all pilgrims require at least one dose of either the bivalent oral polio vaccine or the inactivated polio vaccine.
