Saudi Arabia vaccine requirements: Do I need a vaccine to travel to Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia has become a prime destination for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Before you plan your journey, it's important to know what vaccinations and health measures may be required or recommended for a safe trip.

Saudi Arabia vaccine requirements: Do I need a vaccine to travel to Saudi Arabia?

Vaccination requirements vary depending on your travel plans. Here’s what you need to know:

• Mandatory vaccinations:

  • Yellow fever: Proof of vaccination is required for travelers coming from high-risk areas for yellow fever.
  • Meningitis: This vaccination is mandatory for those attending the Hajj pilgrimage. Proof of immunization must be presented. The Saudi Ministry of Health and other local medical facilities can administer this vaccine if necessary.

• Recommended vaccinations: While not compulsory for most travelers, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises obtaining certain vaccines to protect your health during your visit. These include:

  • COVID-19
  • Hepatitis A & B
  • Rabies
  • Polio
  • Tetanus

"Carry proof of all vaccinations you have taken, especially if you're coming from a high-risk region . I was asked to prove I had taken the yellow fever vaccine when I arrived," revealed Anisa from Namibia.

If you plan to travel during the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages, ensuring your vaccinations are up to date is especially important.

The large gatherings during these events can increase the risk of disease transmission, making preventive measures crucial.

Visa considerations for Saudi Arabia

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. Many travelers are eligible for the Saudi Arabia tourist e-visa, which allows for multiple entries. \

If you are traveling for religious purposes such as Hajj or Umrah, specific visas for these pilgrimages are available and may have different requirements.

Check our Saudi tourist visa page and our Umrah visa page for more details on how to apply and ensure a smooth trip.

Other requirements

Our customer, Anisa, shared that downloading the Tawakkalna app before you arrive is key.

“The Tawakkalna app is a must! I downloaded it right after I landed and used my passport to register. It’s required for many places,” revealed Anisa.

Don’t panic if you can’t activate it. You’ll need a local SIM to do so which you can only set up once you get through customs.

"You can also use the 'Absher' app to manage various governmental services, such as extending visas or paying fines during your stay," reveals Anisa.

Cultural considerations for travelers

Saudi Arabia is a traditional Muslim country, so it is important to be mindful of local customs and laws.

This includes adhering to a modest dress code—avoid revealing or transparent clothing, and women should consider wearing a headscarf.

“Guys, don’t wear shorts above the knee when you’re out and about. I saw someone get turned away at a museum for this,” warned Anisa.

Respecting these customs is vital for a respectful and enjoyable travel experience.

Bring your international driving permit and rent a car for flexibility if you plan to drive. Exercise caution, as traffic conditions can be challenging due to frequent incidents involving local drivers.

“Instead of driving, I used a ride-hailing app with a ‘women-only’ option for drivers. It felt a lot more comfortable as a solo female traveler,” adds Anisa.

Need more information?

For further guidance on the Saudi Arabia tourist visa, Umrah visa, or any health and travel requirements, our customer service team is here to assist. Contact us via WhatsApp or live chat for personalized support and up-to-date information.