Karachi Airport Makes Vaccination Mandatory for Umrah Pilgrims Again
Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport has resumed enforcing mandatory vaccination requirements for Umrah pilgrims following the expiry of a temporary exemption on October 10, 2026. Travellers departing for Saudi Arabia must meet the applicable vaccination requirements and carry valid vaccination certificates before boarding their flights.
The International Traveller Vaccination Centre, operated by Border Health Services Pakistan near Star Gate, is providing vaccination services around the clock to facilitate pilgrims and other international travellers.
According to the latest report, the requirements include polio and meningitis vaccinations for Umrah pilgrims, while additional vaccinations may apply to passengers travelling to destinations with specific health regulations.
Vaccination Requirements Resume After October 10 Deadline
Authorities had temporarily allowed Umrah pilgrims to travel without meeting the vaccination requirements until October 10. Following the expiry of this exemption, the requirements are now being enforced again at Karachi airport.
The temporary extension had been introduced to facilitate travellers while vaccination and certificate-issuing arrangements were being organised.
With the exemption now over, pilgrims should ensure that their vaccinations and documentation are completed before departure to avoid unnecessary delays or travel disruptions.
Border Health Services has also advised Pakistani passport holders travelling internationally to comply with the health requirements applicable to their destinations and transit points.
Which Vaccines Do Umrah Pilgrims Need?
Umrah pilgrims departing from Karachi must meet the applicable vaccination requirements for travel to Saudi Arabia.
The vaccines identified in the latest report include:
| Vaccine | Requirement or Application |
|---|---|
| Polio | Required for Umrah pilgrims under the applicable travel rules |
| Meningitis | Required for Umrah pilgrims under the applicable travel rules |
| Yellow fever | Required for travellers whose destinations or transit routes fall under relevant rules |
| Influenza | Available at the vaccination centre; confirm whether it is required for your specific journey |
Travellers should verify the latest Saudi Arabian health regulations and Pakistan’s departure requirements before receiving vaccinations. Requirements may vary according to destination, medical circumstances and travel itinerary.
Pilgrims should also confirm the required timing of vaccinations, as some vaccines must be administered a specified number of days before arrival.
Vaccination Centre Operating Around the Clock
The International Traveller Vaccination Centre operated by Border Health Services is located near Star Gate at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.
The facility is providing vaccination services around the clock to help international travellers obtain the required vaccinations and documentation.
Dr Ghulam Murtaza Shah, Border Health Services’ focal person, said that arrangements had been made for vaccine supplies and the issuance of vaccination certificates.
However, pilgrims should avoid relying entirely on airport facilities, particularly when travelling during busy periods. Completing the vaccination process in advance can help reduce last-minute complications.
Vaccination Charges at Karachi Airport
According to the reported fee schedule, the vaccination charges are as follows:
| Vaccine | Reported Fee |
|---|---|
| Meningitis | Rs. 2,785 |
| Influenza | Rs. 1,720 |
| Polio | Free |
These charges reflect the figures reported on October 12, 2026. Travellers should confirm the current fees with the authorised vaccination centre before making payment.
The cost of a vaccine should also be distinguished from whether that vaccine is mandatory for a particular destination. Pilgrims should confirm the applicable requirements rather than assume that every vaccine offered at the centre is compulsory for every traveller.
Why Vaccination Certificates Are Important
Vaccination certificates help authorities verify that travellers have met the applicable international health requirements.
Pakistan has introduced a NADRA-linked digital vaccination certificate system for international travellers under the relevant procedures. Passengers should obtain their certificates through authorised channels and ensure that their records are valid and verifiable.
Incorrect, incomplete or fraudulent documentation can create problems during airport checks and may disrupt travel plans.
Umrah pilgrims should therefore confirm that their vaccination records and certificates meet the requirements communicated by the relevant authorities and their airlines.
What Umrah Pilgrims Should Do Before Departure
Travellers preparing for Umrah from Karachi should take the following precautions:
- Confirm vaccination requirements: Check the latest rules applicable to Pakistani pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia.
- Get vaccinated in advance: Complete required vaccinations within the prescribed time limits.
- Obtain an authorised certificate: Make sure the vaccination certificate meets the applicable NADRA-linked documentation requirements.
- Verify certificate details: Check that personal information and vaccination records are accurate.
- Confirm fees and payment procedures: Contact an authorised centre to verify the latest charges and accepted payment methods.
- Check with the airline: Confirm that all required documents are available before travelling to the airport.
These precautions can help pilgrims avoid preventable delays and reduce the risk of documentation problems during departure.
Final Word
Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport has resumed enforcing mandatory vaccination requirements for Umrah pilgrims following the expiry of the temporary exemption on October 10, 2026.
The reported requirements include polio and meningitis vaccinations, while other vaccines may be necessary depending on the destination and travel itinerary. The International Traveller Vaccination Centre near Star Gate is providing round-the-clock services to facilitate international travellers.
Pilgrims should complete their vaccinations and obtain valid certificates before departure wherever possible. They should also verify the latest requirements with Border Health Services, authorised vaccination centres and their airlines to ensure a smooth journey to Saudi Arabia.