The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) recently announced that all travelers going to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or Hajj must receive the influenza vaccination. This article provides a detailed guide on the vaccination requirements, the vaccine, and how to obtain the vaccination certificate.
Vaccination Requirements
Starting from March 26, 2024, all travelers are expected to present influenza vaccination cards at travel checkpoints. This requirement applies to both Umrah and Hajj pilgrims, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Who Should Be Vaccinated?
The influenza vaccine is highly recommended for individuals who live or work with many other people, healthcare workers, children below 5 years, pregnant women, adults aged 65 years and above, people with chronic conditions, smokers, those with weakened immune systems, and those considered obese. If you fall into any of these categories, it is crucial to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of flu-related complications.
Key Points to Remember:
- Get vaccinated 10 days before the day of departure to ensure vaccine efficacy and optimal immunity development.
- Don’t take a new dose if you have received the influenza vaccine already, but within the past year.
Also Read: How to Book Umrah, Rawdah Visit Permits via Nusuk App
Where to Get Vaccination?
Vaccinations are available at both government health centers and private hospitals. They offer walk-in vaccinations, homecare services, bookings for appointments, and vaccination cards made available through the Al Hosn app are some of the facilities provided to ensure a smooth vaccination process.
Vaccination Costs
Emiratis can get the influenza vaccine for free, while infants aged 6 months and above are also eligible to receive it for free. Expats can get the vaccine for AED 50 at ambulatory health centers at Dubai Health. The price ranges from AED 75 to AED 120 at private healthcare facilities. Offers and discounts can be availed if available.
How to Obtain Vaccination Certificate?
You can download your vaccination certificate through the Alhosen UAE mobile application, the official digital health platform for vaccinations in the UAE. Here are the steps you need to follow to download your vaccination certificate for Umrah through the Alhosen UAE app:
- Download and Install the ALHOSEN UAE App from Google Play or Apple App Store
- Open the the App and, in the homepage, select “Vew all” under “Certificates” option.
- Click on the “Umrah” option under “Health reports“.
- Dowload the certificate in PDF format which contains a QR code for authorities to verify.
In conclusion, we hope this article has helped you understand the vaccination requirements for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage for those departing from the UAE, including where to get the vaccine, its cost, and how to download the certificate. Ensuring you meet these vaccination requirements is crucial for protecting your health and the health of fellow pilgrims during your journey. Safe travels.
Also Read: 5 Steps to Create an MRN Number in Dubai
