Umrah Health Tips: Heat, Feet, Cough and Vaccinations

Quick answer: To stay healthy on Umrah, drink water steadily through the day, avoid walking in the midday heat, wear comfortable broken-in footwear, rest between acts of worship and wash your hands often to reduce the risk of the "Umrah cough". See your GP or a travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before you travel to check vaccinations and medicines. This article is general guidance, not medical advice.

How do you prepare your health before Umrah?

Good health on Umrah starts in the UK, weeks before you fly. Umrah is physically demanding: Tawaf and Sa'i together involve several kilometres of walking, and most pilgrims walk far more than that over a week in Makkah and Madinah.

• Book a check-up: see your GP or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before you travel, especially if you have a long-term condition.
• Start walking now: build up to 45 to 60 minutes of walking a day, in the shoes you plan to wear.
• Check your medicines: make sure you have enough for the whole trip plus a few extra days.
• Get travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions, and declare them honestly.

Which vaccinations do you need for Umrah?

Saudi Arabia has required pilgrims to be vaccinated against meningitis ACWY, and has at times set other health requirements as well. These rules can change from season to season, so always check the current position before you travel.

The best place to start is the TravelHealthPro website, which gives up-to-date advice for UK travellers, including a page on Saudi Arabia and pilgrimages. Your GP or a travel clinic can then advise on what you personally need, such as routine vaccines or seasonal flu. Some vaccines need to be given a set number of days before travel, so do not leave it to the last week.

Keep any vaccination certificate with your passport in case it is requested. We confirm the current requirements when you book.

How do you cope with the heat in Makkah and Madinah?

Temperatures in Makkah and Madinah are high for much of the year and often go above 40°C in summer. Even in the cooler months, the midday sun is strong. Heat exhaustion is one of the most common problems pilgrims face.

• Plan Tawaf and Sa'i for early morning, after Fajr, or late at night.
• Stay indoors or inside the air-conditioned mosque between late morning and mid-afternoon.
• Use an umbrella for shade outdoors. Men in Ihram must not cover their heads, but an umbrella held above is generally accepted.
• Wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing.
• Watch for warning signs: dizziness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating or confusion. Move to a cool place, drink water and seek help if you do not improve.

If you can choose your dates, the months from November to February are much more comfortable. Our article on the best time to perform Umrah compares the weather month by month.

How much water should you drink on Umrah?

Drink little and often rather than large amounts at once. Zamzam water is available free throughout both Holy Mosques, in coolers and dispensers, so carry a small refillable bottle and top it up every time you pass one.

• Aim for pale-coloured urine as a simple sign you are drinking enough.
• Pack rehydration sachets, especially if you have an upset stomach.
• Limit sugary drinks and strong tea or coffee in the heat.
• In Ramadan, drink steadily between iftar and suhoor, as you cannot catch up during the day.

Fasting in the heat while walking long distances needs extra care. Our Ramadan Umrah guide has more tips on pacing yourself during the holy month.

How do you look after your feet?

Sore feet and blisters can make the rest of a trip miserable. Many pilgrims walk barefoot or in socks inside the mosques on marble floors, then outdoors in sandals on hot pavements.

• Bring comfortable sandals or shoes you have already worn in. New footwear is a common cause of blisters.
• Pack blister plasters, a small pair of scissors and moisturising foot cream.
• Check your feet each evening, particularly if you have diabetes, as you may not feel small cuts.
• Do not walk barefoot outside, where the ground can become very hot.
• Rest with your feet raised in the evening to reduce swelling.

Our Umrah packing list includes the first aid basics worth taking.

What is the "Umrah cough" and how can you avoid it?

The "Umrah cough" is the name pilgrims give to the coughs, colds and sore throats that spread easily in Makkah and Madinah. Millions of people from around the world gather in close quarters, and constant changes between hot streets and cold air conditioning can irritate the throat.

• Wash your hands often, and carry hand sanitiser.
• Wear a face mask in very crowded areas, and especially if you are elderly or have a lung condition.
• Carry a light layer for chilly air-conditioned halls and hotel rooms.
• Avoid sharing cups and bottles.
• Get enough sleep. Long nights of worship with little rest leave you more vulnerable.

If you develop a high fever, breathing difficulty or a cough that keeps getting worse, see a doctor rather than waiting until you are home. Clinics operate near both Holy Mosques, and your hotel reception can help you find one.

What should you know about medicines?

• Carry all medicines in your hand luggage, in the original packaging, with a copy of your prescription.
• Some medicines that are legal in the UK, including certain strong painkillers and sleeping tablets, are controlled in Saudi Arabia. Check before you travel and carry a GP letter if needed.
• If you take medicines at set times, plan for the time difference and the long days of worship.
• People with diabetes should carry snacks, a glucose meter and extra supplies, and talk to their GP about walking and fasting.
• Keep a short list of your conditions and medicines on paper and in your phone.

How can elderly pilgrims stay well on Umrah?

Older pilgrims face extra strain from heat, crowds and long distances. With some planning, Umrah can still be comfortable and rewarding.

• Choose a hotel close to the Haram to cut walking. Our Umrah packages for elderly pilgrims focus on this.
• Use a wheelchair or electric scooter for Tawaf and Sa'i. There is no shame in it, and it keeps energy for worship.
• Ask the airline for assistance at both airports when you book.
• Space out activities and build in afternoon rest.
• Make sure someone in the group knows their medicines and conditions.

For more on travelling with older relatives and children, see our guide to Umrah with family.

When you are ready to plan, our package finder can help you find dates and hotels that suit your pace, and our team is happy to talk through any health-related needs.

Related guides: Group vs Private Umrah: Which Package Suits You? · Best Apps for Umrah: What to Download Before You Fly · Performing Umrah Alone from the UK: Solo Travel Guide

Frequently asked questions

Is the meningitis vaccine required for Umrah?

Saudi Arabia has required the meningitis ACWY vaccine for pilgrims. Requirements can change, so check TravelHealthPro and speak to your GP or travel clinic well before you travel.

How can I avoid getting ill on Umrah?

Wash your hands often, wear a mask in crowds, drink plenty of water and get enough sleep. Avoid the midday heat and rest between acts of worship.

Can I take my prescription medicines to Saudi Arabia?

Usually yes, in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Some medicines are controlled, so check before travelling and carry a GP letter if needed.

What should I do if I feel unwell in Makkah?

Rest, drink water and move somewhere cool. If symptoms are severe or not improving, visit a clinic or ask your hotel to call for medical help.

Can elderly people perform Umrah safely?

Many elderly pilgrims perform Umrah every year. A GP check-up, a hotel near the Haram, a wheelchair for Tawaf and Sa'i, and plenty of rest make a big difference.