What medical conditions will prevent Saudi Arabia from allowing Haj pilgrims in 2026?

Individuals with organ failure, chronic heart and lung diseases, neurological disorders, and advanced-stage cancer will be barred from performing the Haj in 2026.

How will Saudi Arabia verify the health of Haj pilgrims in 2026?

Saudi monitoring teams will closely scrutinize the validity of pilgrims' fitness certificates at entry and exit points, as well as during the Haj rituals, to ensure only those meeting the strict health criteria are allowed to participate.

What will happen if a Haj pilgrim in 2026 provides false information about their health?

The religious affairs ministry in Pakistan has warned that any false or incorrect declarations about a pilgrim's health could result in them being sent back from Saudi Arabia at their own expense.

Home / Health / Saudi Arabia Bans Pilgrims with Health Conditions from 2026 Haj

Saudi Arabia Bans Pilgrims with Health Conditions from 2026 Haj

17 Nov

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Summary

Saudi Arabia restricts Haj pilgrimage for those with chronic, infectious diseases
Organ failure, heart/lung diseases, cancer among conditions barring Haj in 2026
Doctors must verify pilgrims' health certificates to avoid legal action

According to a notice published on the Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs website in late 2025, the Saudi government has imposed significant health restrictions on Haj pilgrims for the 2026 pilgrimage season. The notice, citing the Saudi health ministry, lists a range of medical conditions that will prevent individuals from performing the Haj next year.

These include organ failure such as kidney diseases requiring dialysis, heart diseases where patients cannot handle even slight exertion, chronic lung disease requiring oxygen, and liver failure or cirrhosis. The restrictions also extend to those suffering from neurological or cognitive disorders, severe physical disabilities, and advanced-stage cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Furthermore, the Saudi authorities will bar individuals with infectious diseases that pose a risk to large gatherings, such as whooping cough, open pulmonary tuberculosis, and viral hemorrhagic fever. Pregnant women in their final trimester and those with complications will also face restrictions.