The Travel Health and Vaccine Specialists

Health Alert


LEVEL 2 - PRACTICE ENHANCED PRECAUTIONS

Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia

Updated June 18, 2015

The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is among the largest mass gatherings in the world. It draws about 3 million Muslims from around the world, and more than 11,000 Americans make the pilgrimage each year. This year, Hajj will take place from approximately September 20–25, 2015. Umrah is a similar pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year but is likely to be more crowded during the month of Ramadan (approximately June 17 to July 17, 2015).

Because of the crowds, mass gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah are associated with unique health risks. If you plan to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, follow CDC’s recommendations, such as being up-to-date on your vaccines, to help keep you safe and healthy.

What can travelers do to protect themselves?

Before your trip:

Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.

During your trip:

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

After your trip:

Additional Information

Clinician Information