Polio vaccination mandatory for Pakistani pilgrims

ISLAMABAD:

The Saudi government has made polio vaccination mandatory for all Pakistani Umrah pilgrims, requiring them to be vaccinated at least four weeks before departure.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued an official directive in this regard.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed Umrah pilgrims, operators and airline offices to ensure compliance with the new requirement. Pilgrims must carry a valid polio vaccination certificate while travelling to Saudi Arabia.

According to the ministry, the vaccination must be administered no more than six months before departure. Otherwise, travellers may face difficulties upon arrival.