More than 20,000 British Muslims are expected to make the journey next month
BRITISH Muslims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage should prepare carefully and follow travel safety advice, the Foreign Office have said.
More than 20,000 British Muslims are expected to make the journey next month.
The Foreign Office is urging Hajj pilgrims to get comprehensive travel insurance and essential vaccinations before embarking on their journey.
It is compulsory for travellers to the Hajj to have a Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination certificate in order to obtain a Hajj visa.
The Foreign Office is also advising pilgrims to have a seasonal influenza vaccination, taking out travel insurance and checking Foreign Office travel advice for the latest on the situation in Saudi Arabia.
A delegation of consular staff will be located at the Elaf Al Khalil Hotel, Makkah, for help and guidance for British Muslim pilgrims.
A spokesperson for the Foreign Office said: “The Foreign Office will provide the full range of consular services and will be sending a delegation of consular staff.
“The majority of cases that the delegation handled last year were replacing travel documents. Pilgrims should ensure they look after personal belongings and should take particular care with travel documents, tickets and other valuables.”
Further information for those planning their pilgrimage can be found at the following link http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/your-trip/hajj-pilgrims