Umrah is a dream journey for many Bangladeshi Muslims, offering a chance to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. However, international travel often comes with certain rules and regulations, especially regarding health and safety. If you’re planning to perform Umrah from Bangladesh, it’s important to understand the quarantine rules set by the Saudi authorities.
In this guide, we will discuss the latest quarantine rules, health requirements, and important travel guidelines for Bangladeshi pilgrims.
1. Do Umrah Travelers from Bangladesh Need to Quarantine?
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has updated its travel policies several times due to global health concerns. While full quarantine restrictions have been lifted for most travelers, some specific health and entry requirements still apply. Umrah Package From Bangladesh
As of the latest updates:
- Quarantine is NOT required for fully vaccinated Umrah travelers from Bangladesh.
- If you do not meet the vaccination requirements, additional testing or quarantine might be necessary.
- Special rules may apply to travelers coming from countries with high infection rates.
It is always recommended to check with your travel agency or the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before making travel arrangements.
2. Vaccination Requirements for Umrah Travelers
To enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah, Bangladeshi pilgrims must show proof of approved COVID-19 vaccinations. The following vaccines are recognized:
- Pfizer-BioNTech
- Moderna
- AstraZeneca
- Johnson & Johnson
- Sinopharm or Sinovac (with a booster of Pfizer or Moderna)
What If You Are Not Fully Vaccinated?
If you are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated, you may face additional restrictions. While a complete ban on unvaccinated travelers is not in place, you may need to provide negative PCR test results or comply with specific quarantine measures upon arrival.
3. PCR Testing Rules for Umrah Travelers
PCR testing is an important part of international travel rules. Currently, the Saudi authorities do not require PCR tests for fully vaccinated travelers. However, the rules may change, so it’s always best to stay updated.
For those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure may be required.
4. Rules for Travelers Who Test Positive for COVID-19
If a Bangladeshi traveler tests positive for COVID-19 before departure, they will not be allowed to travel until they recover. Some airlines may require travelers to provide a medical clearance certificate confirming that they are fit to fly.
If someone tests positive after arriving in Saudi Arabia, they must follow the country’s isolation rules.
- Typically, a 5-7 day quarantine period is required.
- Travelers must isolate in designated hotels or medical facilities as directed by Saudi health officials.
- Additional testing may be required before resuming Umrah activities.
5. Health and Safety Protocols During Umrah
Even though strict quarantine measures have been lifted, Saudi Arabia still enforces certain health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all pilgrims.
General Guidelines for Umrah Pilgrims:
✅ Wearing masks in crowded places is recommended.
✅ Regular hand washing and use of hand sanitizers.
✅ Avoiding close contact with people showing symptoms of illness.
✅ Following social distancing measures where required.
✅ Using the Eatmarna app for booking Umrah slots and accessing the Grand Mosque.
While rules may change based on the health situation, these basic safety measures help ensure a safe pilgrimage experience.
6. Hotel Quarantine Rules for Bangladeshi Travelers
Since Saudi Arabia has removed mandatory quarantine for vaccinated travelers, Bangladeshi Umrah pilgrims do not have to stay in quarantine hotels upon arrival.
However, in special cases (such as new health threats), authorities may introduce temporary hotel quarantine measures. In such situations:
- Pilgrims may need to book a hotel for 5-7 days at their own expense.
- Daily health checks and testing may be required.
- Travelers must stay indoors and avoid public areas during the quarantine period.
It is best to check with your airline and travel agent before departure to confirm the latest hotel quarantine rules.
7. Entry Requirements for Returning to Bangladesh
After completing Umrah, Bangladeshi travelers must also follow the entry rules set by their own government.
Current Return Requirements:
✔ No quarantine required for fully vaccinated travelers returning to Bangladesh.
✔ PCR testing may be required for unvaccinated individuals before boarding their flight home.
✔ Passengers may need to fill out health declaration forms at the airport.
✔ If symptoms appear after returning, travelers should self-isolate and seek medical advice.
To avoid last-minute issues, always check the latest return policies before traveling back to Bangladesh.
8. Special Considerations for Elderly and Sick Pilgrims
For elderly or high-risk travelers, special health precautions may apply.
- Medical insurance covering COVID-19 treatment is highly recommended.
- Always carry necessary medications and consult a doctor before traveling.
- Avoid peak travel seasons to reduce exposure to large crowds.
By taking these precautions, older or vulnerable travelers can have a safer and smoother Umrah experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need to quarantine after arriving in Saudi Arabia for Umrah?
No, fully vaccinated Bangladeshi travelers do not need to quarantine upon arrival. However, unvaccinated travelers may have to follow additional testing or quarantine measures.
Q2: Which vaccines are accepted for Umrah travel?
Saudi Arabia accepts Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, and Sinopharm/Sinovac (with a booster of Pfizer/Moderna).
Q3: Do I need a PCR test before traveling to Saudi Arabia?
Currently, fully vaccinated travelers do not need a PCR test. However, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers may be required to show a negative PCR test before departure.
Q4: What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia?
If you test positive after arriving, you must follow Saudi Arabia’s quarantine and isolation rules. Typically, a 5-7 day quarantine period in a designated facility or hotel is required.
Q5: Are there any COVID-19 rules for returning to Bangladesh?
No quarantine is required for fully vaccinated travelers returning to Bangladesh. However, unvaccinated travelers may need to show a negative PCR test before boarding their flight home.
At Travel Trip BD, we are more than just a travel agency; we are your partner in crafting seamless travel experiences. Since our inception, we have been committed to providing top-notch travel solutions to meet the unique needs of both individual travelers and corporate clients. With a wealth of expertise and a passion for travel, we aim to transform your journey into an unforgettable experience, whether it’s a vacation, a pilgrimage, or a business trip.
Final Thoughts
Performing Umrah from Bangladesh has become much easier with the relaxation of strict quarantine rules. Fully vaccinated travelers can now enter Saudi Arabia without quarantine, making the journey smoother and more convenient.
However, rules can change at any time, so it’s always advisable to stay updated with official sources, such as your travel agency, airline, and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. By following health protocols and preparing in advance, you can enjoy a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling Umrah journey.