In a sweeping overhaul ahead of the 1447H / 2026 pilgrimage season, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s religious authorities have unveiled strict new health regulations that will decide who qualifies for the sacred journey and who doesn’t.The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf) has announced that all Emirati pilgrims must pass a comprehensive medical examination confirming their ability to perform the physically demanding Hajj rituals. The authority said it would coordinate closely with Saudi health agencies to screen and verify medical reports, ensuring that every pilgrim meets safety and fitness standards.Awqaf underlined that only those free from chronic or debilitating conditions will qualify, bringing the UAE fully in line with Saudi Arabia’s stringent health policies.
Hajj 2026: Chronic diseases now disqualifying
Under the new rules, anyone affected by major organ failure such as kidney or heart failure will be barred from participating.The list of disqualifying conditions also includes:
- Chronic liver or lung disease.
- Severe neurological or psychiatric disorders that impair cognition or mobility.
- Elderly pilgrims with dementia or frailty.
- Pregnancy in the last trimester.
- Active infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or hemorrhagic fevers.
- Active cancer cases receiving chemotherapy or similar treatments.
Those who rely entirely on wheelchairs or continuous assistance will not be eligible for a Hajj visa.
Pilgrims are also required to complete all specified immunisations well before travel, including:
- Meningococcal vaccine (ACWY) – mandatory for all.
- Seasonal influenza vaccine.
- COVID-19 and other recommended vaccinations based on health status.
The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has issued advisory notes highlighting the importance of physical preparation and injury prevention. Pilgrims are urged to begin light exercise at least three weeks before travel, maintain hydration, and carry essential medicines prescribed by their doctors.Given the extreme temperatures and crowd density during Hajj, MoHAP’s Healthy Hajj guidelines include advice to recognise and prevent heat exhaustion or sunstroke. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat warrant immediate rest and hydration. The checklist for pilgrims includes:
- Carrying first aid kits with pain relievers, wound disinfectants, and allergy medication.
- Wearing light-coloured clothing and using umbrellas.
- Drinking plenty of water and resting frequently in shaded areas.
UAE Hajj 2026 season records 72,000 applications for 6,228 slots
Interest in the pilgrimage remains sky-high despite the tighter rules. Awqaf confirmed that 72,000 applications were filed for the UAE’s 6,228 allocated slots before registration closed on October 9, 2025. Screening and preliminary approvals are now underway, with selected applicants to be contacted via official communications. Those approved must complete documentation within the deadlines to secure their Hajj permits.Officials describe the move as part of a broader push towards a safe, medically fit, and sustainable pilgrimage experience in 2026. UAE’s focus is the wellbeing of every pilgrim, and compliance with the health and vaccination requirements safeguards not only individuals but the entire congregation performing Hajj.For thousands across the Emirates, however, the message is clear: only those in sound physical and mental health will make the sacred journey to Makkah next year.
