Moroccan pilgrims are “exempt” from the mandatory Meningitis vaccine requirement to enter Saudi Arabia, an official at the Saudi Embassy in Rabat told Barlaman Today on Thursday.
Earlier on the same day, the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation issued a document announcing the removal of its former mandatory quadrivalent meningitis vaccine requirement for travelers, effective February 1, 2025.
The rule was previously enforced to curb the spread of meningococcal disease and required visitors to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival.
The suspension will remain in place “until further notice” according to the Saudi Ministry of Health.
For years, Saudi Arabia mandated the quadrivalent meningitis vaccine (covering strains A, C, W-135, and Y) for pilgrims, residents, and certain travelers.
The previous rule sought to prevent outbreaks during mass gatherings like the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, which attract millions of visitors.