Thinking about traveling to the Middle East these days? Then you’re likely thinking about travel vaccine, too.
Of course, with COVID variants still hanging around, there are new questions like “Which vaccine is valid for Dubai travel?” Even if you’re not going to Dubai, you still need to know which COVID vaccine is acceptable in Middle East. Or maybe you just want to know about which country is on the Sinopharm vaccine approved countries list. Further, Muslims planning for Hajj might wonder what the vaccine usually given to pilgrims to the Middle East is.
COVID isn’t the only health concern in the Arab world, however. As you may already know, most countries that require travel vaccines have varied vaccine rules. As a result, you’re likely asking things like “What are the countries that require yellow fever vaccine?”, for example.
With this in mind, today we’re looking at travel vaccinations by country and we’ll try to answer your questions. That being said, please remember that Kaleela is an Arabic language learning app. Consult with your doctor for any medical advice including which vaccines you might need before you go.
COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements
Most Middle Eastern countries no longer require proof of a negative PCR test. A PCR test is also no longer required when you arrive. Rather, these days you have to register your details showing proof that you have been immunized. As a rule, this means you’ve received two initial COVID-19 vaccinations and at least one booster shot. (As far as we can tell, there is no right or wrong “brand” of vaccine.)
You can get an immunization card from your doctor before you go. (Those from Europe can just show their most recent EU vaccine passports.) Also, some Arab countries require you fill-in your details on their online platform prior to your arrival. Check the official travel site of your country to see what you might be required to do before you leave.
If you just so happen to test positive for COVID while you’re there, don’t plan on going anywhere. Most countries in the Middle East will quarantine you for at least five days. Afterwards, there is no need for a follow-up PCR test. Also, if you’ve been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19, isolation is no longer required.
Additionally, many countries around the world require you to have valid health insurance for the length of your stay.
Other Vaccines You Might Need
Both the CDC and WHO suggest you get the following vaccinations if you’re headed to the Middle East:
| hepatitis A | yellow fever |
| hepatitis B | rabies |
| typhoid | meningitis |
| cholera | polio |
| anthrax |
Additionally, they also suggest the following routines shots:
| measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) | |
| tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (TDAP) | |
| influenza | chickenpox |
| shingles | pneumonia |
There have been some cases of polio reported in the Middle East within the last few years. As a result, a polio vaccination is suggested.
If you’re going overseas for work, the U.S. may require you to get an anthrax vaccination before you go. Check with your workplace to learn if this item is required for you.
Moreover, some countries may require proof that you received a yellow fever shot. Lastly, if you’re going to Mecca for Hajj, Saudi Arabia requires a meningitis shot.
Other Health Concerns in the Middle East
Besides COVID-19, MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) is a respiratory illness found throughout the Arab world and can be fatal. You are advised to wash your hands often and avoid contact with sick people and camels. That’s right. Camels are a likely source of a MERS infection, too. So, if you come into contact with them, wash your hands.
What’s more, don’t balk at your chances of getting “Pharaoh’s Revenge” while you’re in the Middle East. Truth is, 70% of tourists get traveler’s diarrhea, so best to have a medical kit ready just in case.
Mosquito born diseases such as Dengue Fever and West Nile Virus are also present in the region. Therefore, be sure to use mosquito repellent and netting. You might also want to see about getting a malaria shot for some regions.
Now that you know how to prevent sickness on Middle East travels, how would you like to prevent xenoglossophobia, too? Sure, we all make a linguistic faux pas once in awhile, even in our mother tongue. However, with the Kaleela Arabic Learning App, you know longer have to worry or be shy about speaking Arabic. That’s because from the ABC’s of Arabic to its local dialects, you learn Arabic the right way with Kaleela. You’ll even learn about Arab culture along the way.
Get the app today and start speaking Arabic by tomorrow! Download it now from kaleela.com.
Kaleela – Learn Arabic the Right Way!
