Saudi Arabia has confirmed that non-vaccinated Muslim worshippers can now enter the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, the holiest sites in Islam. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced relaxed rules, permitting the non-vaccinated faithful to pray in both mosques and obtain permits through the Nusuk app for performing Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage, at the Grand Mosque. However, certain conditions must be met, including not having contracted COVID-19 or coming into contact with individuals who have suffered from the disease.

After a suspension of about seven months due to the global pandemic, Saudi Arabia gradually resumed the Umrah pilgrimage in October 2020. In August 2021, overseas Muslims were allowed to return to Saudi Arabia for Umrah under specific health conditions implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19.

In March of the previous year, Saudi Arabia lifted most of its anti-coronavirus restrictions, which included the elimination of physical distancing requirements and the previous mandate for presenting a negative PCR test result for worshippers at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque.

With the annual Hajj pilgrimage approaching, Saudi Arabia has intensified its preparations to accommodate pilgrims at pre-pandemic levels. The Ministry of Health has strongly recommended that domestic pilgrims receive mandatory vaccines. The required vaccinations include full inoculation against COVID-19, the anti-meningitis vaccine (if not received in the last five years), and the seasonal flu shot. These vaccines are available until 10 days before the commencement of the Hajj rites.

Overseas pilgrims are advised to receive the mandatory vaccines in their home countries before traveling to Saudi Arabia, ensuring compliance with the health regulations set by the kingdom.