- Travel Health Briefing · Middle East
Saudi Arabia
Whether you’re travelling for Hajj, Umrah, work, or business, Saudi Arabia has specific entry requirements worth planning for. Here’s what to know before you travel, and the vaccinations to book ahead.
VACCINES
5 to consider
1 Required · 2 recommended · 2 situational
MALARIA RISK
Low risk
Tablets may be advised
BOOK AHEAD
4–6 weeks
Before you travel
CONSULTATION
£25
Per appointment
- About the destination
Pilgrimage and Beyond, Prepare Well
Saudi Arabia welcomes millions of pilgrims and visitors each year. Alongside the spiritual journey of Hajj and Umrah, it has clear health requirements and a hot, demanding climate,
so a little planning before you go goes a long way.
Middle East
Hot & arid
Capital · Riyadh
Time · GMT +3
- PLAN AHEAD
Recommended Vaccinations
Book early, some courses need several weeks before you travel. Situational vaccines depend on your itinerary and activities.
Meningitis ACWY
Required
Mandatory for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, proof of vaccination is required for your visa. The quadrivalent (ACWY) vaccine protects against four types of meningococcal disease.
£60
Course of doses · accelerated option
Hepatitis A
Recommended
A viral liver infection spread through contaminated food and water, a common risk for travellers.
Typhoid
Recommended
A bacterial infection contracted from contaminated food or water, especially outside major hotels.
Polio (booster)
If Required
Travellers from some countries must show proof of polio vaccination to enter Saudi Arabia. We’ll check whether this applies to you.
On consultation
Booster · if required
Seasonal influenza
Situational
Recommended for pilgrims, flu spreads easily in the close crowds of Hajj and Umrah.
On consultation
Single dose · seasonal
Travel consultation £25 · vaccine prices shown per dose. Your pharmacist confirms exactly what you need and the right schedule at your appointment.
Travelling for Hajj or Umrah?
Malaria risk varies by region and is higher in some rural and hill areas, with low risk in major cities. Antimalarial tablets may be recommended depending on exactly where and when you’re travelling, we’ll assess this and advise the right option at your consultation. Bite-avoidance measures are recommended everywhere.
- STAY AWARE
Common Health Risks
Beyond vaccinations, a few conditions are worth knowing about so you can take simple precautions.
Dengue Fever
A mosquito-borne virus causing flu-like symptoms, can be serious in some cases. Use repellent and cover up at dawn and dusk.
Typhoid Fever
A bacterial infection from contaminated food or water. Stick to sealed drinks and freshly cooked, hot food.
Hepatitis A
A viral infection affecting the liver, contracted through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is the best protection.
Travellers’ diarrhoea
A bacterial disease from water contaminated with animal urine, often linked to flooding. Avoid wading in floodwater.
Rabies
A viral disease transmitted through animal bites, especially from dogs. Avoid contact with stray animals.
- BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
Get to Know Saudi Arabia
A glimpse of where you’re headed, plus a few habits to help you stay well while you’re away.
How's the weather?
Saudi Arabia’s climate is hot and arid, very high summer temperatures and strong year-round sun. Use sunscreen, stay hydrated with safe water, and avoid the midday sun.
Is the water safe?
Avoid tap water, choose sealed bottled water, and skip ice unless it’s made from purified water.
How to see a doctor?
Private hospitals and clinics in major cities often have English-speaking staff. Keep a trusted local contact for emergencies.
How to get medicines?
Pharmacies are common and well-signed, but bring your own regular medication as specific brands can vary.
- SIMPLE & QUICK
Booking Takes Three Steps
Small habits that make a big difference to staying well while you’re away.
1
Tell Us Your Trip
Answer a few quick questions about your destination, dates, and health.
2
Pharmacist Review
A prescriber checks exactly what you need and the right schedule for your travel.
3
Book & Visit
Choose a time, confirm online, and get vaccinated at our pharmacy.
Travelling to Saudi Arabia?
Start your travel assessment and our pharmacists will tailor vaccine and malaria advice to your itinerary, dates, and activities. Consultations from £25.