Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia Bans Sick Pilgrims from Traveling

Riyadh: The Saudi government has announced strict new health requirements for Hajj 2026, warning that pilgrims with certain serious illnesses will not be allowed to perform the pilgrimage.

According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Pakistan), all pilgrims must have a valid medical fitness certificate, which will be verified by Saudi authorities before and after arrival.

Officials said that any pilgrim found to be unfit or seriously ill, even with a certificate, could face deportation at their own expense.

Diseases Prohibited for Hajj Pilgrims

The new policy bars people suffering from the following conditions:

• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Kidney or liver disease
• Lung problems
• Epilepsy
• Mental health disorders or memory loss
• Pregnancy
• Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, whooping cough, and viral hemorrhagic fevers

The Ministry stated that only pilgrims who meet the required health standards will be permitted to travel for Hajj 2026.

Action Against Fake Certificates

Authorities have also warned that doctors issuing false or inaccurate fitness certificates will face strict legal action.
Medical officers are authorized to stop unfit pilgrims from traveling to ensure full compliance with Saudi health regulations.

Guidelines for Pilgrims

Those planning to perform Hajj 2026 must:

• Get an authentic medical fitness certificate
• Ensure they are free from the listed diseases
• Understand that Saudi authorities will verify all documents
• Be aware that deportation costs will be borne by the pilgrim if found unfit

Health and Safety First

Officials said the new measures aim to protect the health and safety of all pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which attracts millions of people from around the world each year.