Gombe Intensifies Pilgrim Sensitisation as Saudi Tightens Hajj Health Policy
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has intensified its sensitisation and enlightenment programmes for intending pilgrims following the introduction of stricter health regulations by Saudi Arabian authorities ahead of the 2026 Hajj.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan Adam, said the renewed sensitisation drive became necessary in response to Saudi Arabia’s tightened health policy, which now makes medical fitness a mandatory condition for visa issuance and participation in the pilgrimage.
According to him, the new policy effectively ends the practice of medical tourism through Hajj, as Saudi authorities will no longer admit pilgrims who are seriously ill, medically unfit, or seeking treatment during the pilgrimage. Elderly pilgrims who cannot independently perform Hajj rites are also affected.
“Saudi Arabia has made its position very clear. Medical clearance is now compulsory, and pilgrims who are unfit or attempting to use Hajj as a means of accessing medical care will not be allowed to travel,” Adam said.
He disclosed that under the new regime, a comprehensive medical clearance certificate must be uploaded on the official pilgrims’ portal before visas can be processed, describing the requirement as strict and non-negotiable.
Adam noted that pregnant women have also been explicitly excluded under the tightened health measures, citing past challenges, including cases where pilgrims delivered babies in Saudi Arabia after Hajj.
“In view of these developments, we have scaled up our enlightenment activities to ensure pilgrims fully understand the new realities and the consequences of non-compliance,” he added.
The Board’s sensitisation programme, known as Bita, now places strong emphasis on health education alongside Hajj rites, Islamic obligations, and social conduct. Pilgrims are being educated on personal health responsibility, international regulations, and the need to adhere strictly to Saudi guidelines.
The Executive Secretary said the Board has also leveraged radio and television platforms across the state to reach a wider audience, urging intending pilgrims to complete their medical screenings and outstanding payments promptly, as visa processing and compulsory health assessments will commence soon.
He warned that no exemptions would be granted, stressing that compliance with the new Saudi health policy is mandatory for all pilgrims, regardless of payment status.
The development marks a policy shift by Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its position that Hajj must remain a purely spiritual exercise, while compelling state pilgrim boards to prioritise health compliance and proactive sensitisation to avoid last-minute disqualifications.
