The Egyptian Chamber of Travel and Tourism Companies and Agencies has announced the procedures and preparations for tourist Hajj trips in 2025. The Chamber, citing facts received from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, outlined the Saudi Deputy minister of Health’s report detailing groups not authorized to travel for Hajj this year, required vaccinations, and general health advice.
Required Vaccinations for Hajj 2025
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According to the Saudi Ministry of Health, the following vaccinations are mandatory for Hajj 2025:
- Meningitis vaccination with a single dose of the quadrivalent vaccine, administered no less than 10 days and no more than 5 years before travel.
- coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination updated for the 2024-2025 season for individuals over 65 years of age.
- Updated seasonal influenza vaccination for the 2024-2025 season for individuals over 65 years of age.
Health Requirements and Guidelines for Hajj Travelers
The Saudi Ministry of Health has also outlined the following health requirements and guidelines for travelers intending to perform Hajj:
- Advanced kidney failure requiring hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
- Advanced heart failure with symptoms appearing at rest or with minimal physical exertion.
- Chronic lung diseases requiring intermittent or continuous oxygen use.
- Advanced cirrhosis with signs of liver failure, such as ascites, variceal bleeding, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
- Severe neurological and psychological diseases impairing cognition or accompanied by severe motor disabilities.
- Aging accompanied by dementia.
- Pregnancy in the last two months and high-risk pregnancies at any stage.
- Active infectious diseases with public health impact,such as open pulmonary tuberculosis and hemorrhagic fevers.
- Active cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- Children under 12 years of age.
Hajj Tourist Prices 2025
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has revealed the prices for tourist Hajj programs in 2025, categorized by economic, five-star, land, and aviation programs:
5-Star Hajj Tourist Prices
- Five stars A, located within 250 meters of Al Haram Square: 580,000 Egyptian pounds.
- Five stars B, located within 1,250 meters of Al Haram Square: 520,000 Egyptian pounds.
Prices for economic Hajj Programs 2025 (Flight)
- Economy A, full season, hotels up to 1,250 meters: 295,000 Egyptian pounds.
- Economy B, full season, hotels from 1,250 meters to 2,000 meters: 275,000 Egyptian pounds.
- Economy C: accommodation for pilgrims in areas typically designated for pilgrims, such as Azizia, Al-Nuzha, and Al-Zahir: 250,000 Egyptian pounds.
For more detailed information on Hajj tourist programs, interested individuals can visit the website of the Egyptian Chamber of Travel and Tourism Companies and Agencies.
“We are committed to ensuring a safe and memorable Hajj experience for all pilgrims,” stated a representative from the Chamber. “These guidelines and preparations are in place to safeguard the health and well-being of all participants.”
Saudi Arabia has announced a halt to issuing personal visit visas for Egyptian citizens, citing unspecified violations. This decision, which comes as a surprise to many, will substantially impact travel between the two countries.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not elaborate on the nature of the violations leading to this decision. The move has sparked speculation and concern among Egyptians planning trips to Saudi Arabia, especially those intending to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
“Due to violations… Saudi Arabia stops personal visit visas for Egyptians,” a statement from the Saudi Ministry read.
Meanwhile, Saudi authorities have released pricing details for Hajj tourism programs by land in 2025. These packages, which exclude airfare or ship tickets, offer varying levels of accommodation.
- Land tourism, full season, with hotels up to 1,250 meters: 260,000 Egyptian pounds.
- Land tourism for a full season,with hotels from 1,250 meters to 2,000 meters: 245,000 Egyptian pounds.
- Land tourism – Accommodation of pilgrims in areas where pilgrims are usually accommodated,such as “Azizia,Al-Nuzha,and Al-Zaher”: 225,000 Egyptian pounds.
This proclamation comes as Saudi Arabia prepares to welcome millions of pilgrims for the Hajj, one of the five pillars of islam. The pilgrimage, which takes place annually in Mecca, is a deeply notable religious obligation for muslims worldwide.
The suspension of personal visit visas for Egyptians adds another layer of complexity to travel arrangements for the upcoming Hajj season. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the number of Egyptian pilgrims participating in the 2025 Hajj.
## Expert Interview: Preparing for Hajj 2025
**World Today News** sits down with Dr. Ahmed Hassan, renowned travel health expert, to discuss the latest preparations and health requirements for Hajj 2025.
**WTN:** Dr. Hassan, the Egyptian Chamber of Travel and Tourism Companies and Agencies recently announced the procedures and preparations for tourist Hajj trips in 2025. What are some of the key takeaways for prospective pilgrims?
**Dr. Hassan:** The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in conjunction with the Saudi Ministry of Health, has outlined several important aspects for a safe and healthy Hajj experience. Firstly, mandatory vaccinations are crucial, including the quadrivalent meningitis vaccine, and updated COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations for those over 65.
**WTN:** Are there any specific health conditions that might prevent someone from performing Hajj?
**Dr.Hassan:** Yes, the Saudi Ministry of Health has identified several medical conditions that require special consideration. These include advanced kidney or heart failure, chronic lung diseases requiring oxygen use, and severe cirrhosis. Pregnant women, especially in the later stages, and individuals with active infectious diseases or severe neurological conditions are also advised against travelling for Hajj. It’s crucial for anyone with pre-existing medical conditions to consult thier doctor to assess their suitability for the pilgrimage.
**WTN:** What about the cost of Hajj travel? What options are available for pilgrims?
**Dr. Hassan:** the Ministry has announced a range of Hajj programs catering to different budgets and preferences. You can choose from 5-star accommodations with varying proximity to Al Haram Square, as well as economic packages with different flight and hotel options. The prices for 2025 have been released, offering pilgrims transparency and the ability to choose the package that best suits their needs.
**WTN:** Do you have any final advice for those planning Hajj 2025?
**Dr.Hassan:** Planning is key for a successful hajj. Start early by discussing your health with your doctor, ensuring you have all the necessary vaccinations, and familiarizing yourself with the requirements and guidelines set forth by the authorities. Remember, Hajj is a physically and spiritually demanding journey, so prioritize your health and well-being throughout the process.
**WTN:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Hassan. Your expertise is invaluable in guiding pilgrims towards a safe and fulfilling Hajj experience.
