Quick answer: The umrah vaccine required for pilgrims from all countries, including Malaysia, is the meningococcal (meningitis) ACYW vaccine, taken at least 10 days before arriving in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims over 65, pregnant women and people with certain chronic conditions also need proof of COVID-19 vaccination or immunity. Rules can change, so check the latest requirements with a licensed agency and your clinic.
Vaccines are one of the most common questions once your umrah date is confirmed. This guide sums up what official sources said as of 31/10/2026, what is required and what is only recommended, and when to see a doctor. We are not a medical provider, so use this guide as a checklist, then confirm with your clinic and agency.
Official sources we used
The main reference is the Health Regulations for Umrah document from the Saudi Ministry of Health, which states it covers the 1447H (2026) season. It was the latest version we found at the time of writing. Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (KKM) has also reminded haj and umrah pilgrims to get the meningococcal vaccine before departure, in line with Saudi protocols, as reported by The Star (28/05/2024).
Required umrah vaccine
Meningococcal (meningitis)
According to the Saudi document, pilgrims from all countries must have one of these vaccines:
| Vaccine type | Validity | When to take it |
|---|---|---|
| ACYW or ACYWX conjugate | Taken within the last 5 years | At least 10 days before arrival |
| ACYW polysaccharide | Taken within the last 3 years | At least 10 days before arrival |
If you had this vaccine for an earlier umrah or haj, check the type and date on your certificate. Ask your doctor whether it is still valid or needs repeating.
COVID-19 for certain groups
The same document requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or immunity for umrah pilgrims in these groups: over 65, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic conditions such as heart, lung, kidney, neurological or blood disease, cancer, or weak immunity. Accepted proof is one of:
- One dose of the updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine.
- A completed primary series (two or more doses) taken between 2021 and 2024.
- A lab-confirmed COVID-19 infection in 2025.
Polio and yellow fever
Polio and yellow fever requirements apply only to visitors from the countries listed in the document. Malaysia is not on either list in the 1447H document. If you live in or spend a long transit in another country before umrah, check the full lists.
Recommended vaccines
The Saudi document advises the updated seasonal influenza vaccine. It is advice, not a requirement. For haj pilgrims in the 1446H season, Tabung Haji made influenza compulsory for those aged 65 and above and those at high risk, and listed pneumococcal as recommended. For umrah, talk to your doctor about whether these suit you, especially for older pilgrims and people with chronic illness.
When and where to get your umrah vaccine
The minimum is 10 days before you arrive in Saudi Arabia, but do not wait until the last week. Go early so you have time if you feel unwell after the jab or if the certificate needs correcting.
- Ask your umrah agency which clinic or hospital they usually use and what certificate format they accept.
- Bring your IC and any old vaccine certificate you have.
- Tell the doctor about any chronic illness, medication, pregnancy or allergy.
- Check your name, passport or IC number, vaccine type and date on the certificate before leaving the clinic.
- Keep a printed and a digital copy of the certificate.
We do not list prices or clinic names because they differ and change. Ask your nearest clinic directly.
Other health preparation before umrah
The Saudi document also advises people with chronic illness to carry medical documents and enough medication in its original packaging. Older pilgrims are advised to avoid direct sun and drink enough fluids. Medicines that can cause dehydration, such as diuretics, may need adjusting by the treating doctor. See your doctor a few weeks before departure to sort all of this out in one visit.
Food and health during umrah
Foodborne illness can disrupt your worship. Eat food that is fully cooked, drink clean water, and avoid food left out for long in the heat. For back-up food, retort dishes in sealed pouches need no fridge and can be warmed with hot water from the hotel kettle. Pack them in checked luggage and bring personal quantities only. The rules on food brought into Saudi Arabia are in our guide on bringing food to Saudi Arabia.
Umrah vaccine tips
- Confirm your arrival date in Saudi Arabia first, then count back at least 10 days.
- Check the latest requirements with a licensed agency or clinic, because rules can change every season.
- Keep your vaccine certificate in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage.
- For older pilgrims, book the doctor’s visit early because more than one vaccine may be needed.
Read also our guides on umrah preparation, the umrah packing list and how many days for umrah.
FAQ about the umrah vaccine
Is the meningitis vaccine required for umrah?
Yes. The Saudi Ministry of Health document for 1447H requires the meningococcal ACYW vaccine for pilgrims from all countries, at least 10 days before arrival.
How long is the meningitis vaccine valid?
Under that document, ACYW or ACYWX conjugate vaccines are accepted if taken within the last 5 years, and ACYW polysaccharide within the last 3 years. Confirm with your doctor based on your certificate.
Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine for umrah?
It is required only for certain groups: people over 65, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic conditions. Other pilgrims can ask their doctor.
Is the flu vaccine required for umrah?
The Saudi document lists it as advice, not a requirement. Talk to your doctor, especially for older pilgrims.
How much does an umrah vaccine cost?
Prices differ by clinic and vaccine type, and can change. Ask your clinic or agency directly.
Still have questions?
WhatsApp the MakanHubb team at 012-540 0263. We reply during office hours, Monday to Friday.
