The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Islamabad has recently implemented a significant health requirement for Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan. This new rule mandates the possession of a valid polio card for all individuals planning to embark on the sacred Umrah journey. This measure, aimed at safeguarding public health and preventing the spread of polio, necessitates careful planning and adherence to specific vaccination timelines.
1. Polio Card: An Essential Document
The polio card has become an official vaccination record against the Polio Virus. Saudi Arabian authorities have now made it a mandatory document for all Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan. This step is part of ongoing efforts to curb the transmission of polio and ensure the well-being of the public within the region.
2. The Vaccination Timeline
For a seamless Umrah experience, Pakistani pilgrims must receive the oral polio vaccine (OPV) at least 4 weeks before applying for their Saudi Umrah visa. Regardless of age, this vaccine is a prerequisite. Pilgrims must also present their polio vaccination card at the airport before boarding the Umrah flight. A dose of OPV will be administered at Saudi Arabia's border points upon arrival, extending to travelers under 15 years of age. Proof of receiving the vaccine at least 4 weeks before the visa application is essential.
3. Changes in Polio Card Issuance
Due to the stringent adherence to the 4-week vaccination policy, the supply of polio cards at the airport has become limited. As a result, only "leftover" passengers or those who missed vaccination due to emergencies will receive polio cards at the airport. The issuance of these cards at the airport is subject to the recommendation of the Federal Ombudsman's Office. To avoid any last-minute inconveniences, prospective Umrah pilgrims are strongly advised to obtain the polio vaccine well in advance of their travel plans.
4. The Role of Airline Staff
Airline staff holds a crucial responsibility in informing pilgrims about the polio vaccination requirement at the time of ticket booking. Passengers who have booked their Umrah tickets 30 days prior to departure should proactively contact their airline to inquire about the polio card requirement. The Airport Health Department cannot be held responsible if passengers fail to possess a valid polio card upon arrival at the airport. To ensure a smooth and worry-free journey, travelers should obtain their polio cards well ahead of time and keep them securely alongside their travel documents.
The introduction of the mandatory polio card requirement for Umrah pilgrims is a crucial step toward maintaining public health in Saudi Arabia. By adhering to the vaccination timeline, obtaining the polio card, and staying informed about the latest updates, prospective pilgrims can contribute to a safe and seamless Umrah experience while fulfilling their spiritual journey. For comprehensive details regarding Saudi Arabia visa requirements for Pakistani passport holders & citizens, kindly review all the necessary requirements on
