Migrant workers are not required to take the meningitis vaccine when travelling to Saudi Arabia, according to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport's Director Kamrul Islam.
"Meningitis vaccination is obligatory solely for those heading to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. Additionally, visitors travelling on a tourist visa must also comply with this vaccination mandate. However, it is not compulsory for those with work permits or other categories of expatriate labourers," he told media on Tuesday (21 January).
The clarification comes amidst the backdrop of a demonstration by expatriates travelling to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries.
Frustrated by the lack of available vaccines, the protesters blocked a road in the Panthapath area of the capital on the morning of the same day, causing significant traffic disruption for over an hour before dispersing.
This announcement follows an earlier directive issued on Monday (20 January), by the airport authorities, in alignment with new Saudi Arabian government regulations.
The directive, mandating the meningitis vaccine for all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims as well as visit visa holders, will come into effect from 10 February.
Kamrul Islam further informed that all airlines and relevant airport stakeholders have been officially notified.
The directive specifies that individuals intending to travel for Hajj or Umrah, or on visit visas, must receive the vaccine at least ten days before their journey.
They are also required to carry their vaccination certificates during travel.
The directive exempts children under the age of one from this requirement.
Additionally, individuals who have been vaccinated within the last three years are not required to receive a new dose before entering Saudi Arabia.
