Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca), in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the world.
Performing the rituals of the Hajj and Umrah is demanding and often involves walking long distances in hot weather. Pilgrims must ensure that they are as physically fit as possible.
Pilgrims are usually required to have several vaccinations prior to attending Hajj/Umrah; these can change yearly [2]. Check our KSA Country Information page for details.
Pilgrims should be advised of the importance of checking the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Ministry of Hajj and Umrah websites for up to date travel advisories.
Enhanced COVID precautions have been introduced for those performing Umrah from October 2020; an official Ministry of Hajj app has been launched as part of the registration procedures to perform Umrah during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overview
Due to the large crowds, mass gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah are associated with unique health risks [4]. Each year, in early summer, the Ministry of Health (MoH) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) issues the requirements and recommendations for entry visas relevant to pilgrims and seasonal workers who intend to visit KSA during forthcoming Hajj and Umrah season [2]. Requirements and recommendations may differ from year to year.
Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca) in KSA occurs between the 8th and 12th day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar and is one of the largest mass gatherings in the world. Approximate dates for the 2021 Hajj are 17-22 July [5].
Every year approximately three million Muslims from around the world gather in Makkah for Hajj. All adult, able bodied Muslims are required to undertake Hajj at least once in their lifetime if they can afford to do so [5]. On 12 June 2021, the Saudi Press Agency published an announcement from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, permission to perform Hajj 2020/1141H would be restricted to 60,000 pilgrims of all nationalities who are residents of Saudi Arabia [1].
Umrah is a shorter, non-compulsory pilgrimage for Muslims, which is performed as part of the Hajj ritual, but can also be undertaken at any time. In September 2020 the Saudi Press Agency announced that permission to perform Umrah is to be gradually allowed for certain groups of pilgrims, for example those who are resident in Saudi Arabia. British citizens wishing to perform Umrah should follow announcements on FCDO official social media channels @ukinsaudiarabia and guidance from local authorities.