The Saudi government has issued detailed medical instructions to Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs. Under the new policy, any pilgrim who is medically weak or seriously ill will not only be barred from performing Hajj but may also be sent back home even after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

According to the ministry’s spokesperson, the policy of immediately returning sick pilgrims will be followed without exception. All return expenses will be paid by the affected pilgrim.

The spokesperson said that people suffering from kidney diseases, those on dialysis, heart patients, and those unable to bear physical effort will not be allowed to go for Hajj.

Similarly, individuals with lung or liver diseases, severe neurological or psychiatric conditions, memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer’s, tremors, or major disabilities will not qualify for the pilgrimage.

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Pregnant women, and patients of whooping cough, tuberculosis, viral hemorrhagic fever, and cancer will also be stopped from travelling.

The ministry added that medical officers will make the final decision on fitness certificates. Anyone deemed unfit for travel will not be permitted to go.

Special monitoring teams in Saudi Arabia will also verify the accuracy of these certificates. Only pilgrims who meet the required health standards will be allowed to perform Hajj 2026.

These new rules show that health standards for Hajj are becoming stricter. Many people may have to reconsider plans if they have long-term illnesses. The policy aims to keep pilgrims safe, but it also means travellers must meet clear medical conditions before starting their journey.