Hajj & Umrah Vaccination in Aberdeen
Preparing for pilgrimage? Waverley Pharmacy provides the meningitis ACWY vaccination and official certificate you need for your Saudi visa application — from our pharmacy in Aberdeen city centre, with a free consultation and no GP referral required.
We understand that pilgrimage travel runs to a fixed deadline. Tell us your departure date and we will make sure you are vaccinated in good time.
What vaccination do I need for Hajj and Umrah?
You must have a valid certificate of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis ACWY - the quadrivalent vaccine covering serogroups A, C, W and Y - before arriving in Saudi Arabia for either Hajj or Umrah. This applies to all pilgrims aged 1 year and over.
The certificate must show that the vaccine was given:
- at least 10 days before you arrive in Saudi Arabia
- no more than 5 years before arrival
We use the conjugate ACWY vaccine, which is the preferred type as it lasts longer and also reduces carriage of the bacteria, meaning it helps protect you and the people around you.
This is an entry requirement to the country, without a valid certificate your visa application can be refused and you may be denied entry on arrival.
> Please note: Saudi entry requirements are reviewed periodically and we aim to stay as up to date as possible. Our information is sourced from [FCDO travel advice](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/saudi-arabia/pilgrimage) and [NaTHNaC](https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/19/hajj-and-umra) guidance at the time of writing. Always check the current requirements before you travel.
How much does the Hajj meningitis vaccination cost in Aberdeen?
Consultation - Free
Meningitis ACWY vaccination and certificate - £60
There is no booking fee and no charge for advice. You only pay if you decide to go ahead with the vaccination.
How long before travelling should I get the meningitis vaccine?
Book at least 6 weeks before you travel so we can check whether you need anything else alongside your meningitis vaccination.
If time is short, the key deadline is that your certificate is only valid from 10 days after vaccination — so you must be vaccinated at least 10 days before you arrive in Saudi Arabia. Contact us anyway and we will do what we can.
Why do I need the meningitis ACWY vaccine?
It is easy to treat this as a box to tick for the visa, but the requirement exists for a reason.
Millions of pilgrims from across the world gather in close quarters, which is exactly the setting in which meningococcal bacteria spread. Meningitis and septicaemia can develop within hours and can be fatal or life-changing even with prompt treatment.
The conjugate vaccine protects you and, because it reduces carriage, helps protect the people you travel and pray alongside.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Your travel dates and departure date
Your vaccination history (your GP practice can usually provide this)
A list of any regular medication you take
Details of any allergies or medical conditions
You do not need a GP referral and you do not need to be a registered patient with us.
What practical advice is there for pilgrims?
Beyond vaccination, a few things make a real difference:
Heat. Mecca can be extremely hot. Drink water regularly, use shade where you can, and don't wait until you feel thirsty.
Crowds. Respiratory infections spread easily. Hand hygiene and a face covering in dense crowds both help.
Foot care. A great deal of walking. Check your feet daily, especially if you are diabetic.
What other vaccinations should Hajj and Umrah pilgrims consider?
Seasonal influenza & Covid can spread quickly as large crowds make transmission easy.
Routine vaccinations a good opportunity to check your tetanus, diphtheria and polio cover is up to date.
We will go through all of this with you at your free consultation, based on your own health, age and travel plans.
FAQs
Do you offer evening or weekend travel clinic appointments in Aberdeen?
Yes. Our private travel clinic appointments can be arranged outside our standard NHS opening hours, including evenings and weekends. Let us know if you have a preferred time.
Free consultation. £60 for the meningitis ACWY vaccination and certificate.
Book online → By completing travel screening form below
OR
Call → 01224 635300
Appointments can also be arranged outside our usual opening hours, including evenings and weekends.
