Page 33 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT JUNE 2024

6/6/24, 3:25 PM Latest News
Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are advised to carry valid health certificates confirming that they are free from any
acute, chronic or infectious diseases. Furthermore, we suggest scheduling activities to avoid peak heat hours

whenever possible and being adequately hydrated during Hajj, as pilgrims may experience heat-related
illnesses and dehydration.”

Gulnaz Ukassova, Security Director at International SOS in Dubai, stressed the need for thorough pre-travel
preparation and compliance with government directives, stating, “It is vital for pilgrims undertaking Hajj to
thoroughly understand and comply with the relevant Hajj regulations prior to and during the pilgrimage.

Pilgrims should expect large crowds at religious sites, particularly on the Jamaarat Bridge in Mina and around
Al-Masjid Al-Haram Mosque in Mecca. Pilgrims must take precautions to ensure their safety during crowd

surges, such as staying aware of their surroundings, adhering to designated lanes, avoiding walking against
the direction of traffic and knowing the nearest emergency exits and evacuation routes. They should also

anticipate and be prepared for potential travel disruptions and increased demand for various services during
this period.”

Hajj 2024 health and safety guidelines for organisations and their workforce to ensure the health and safety
of pilgrims:

• Encourage employees undertaking Hajj to obtain vaccinations and health certification: All pilgrims are
required to have proof of administering meningococcal vaccination. Ensure all routine vaccinations, including

COVID-19 and seasonal influenza are up-to-date. Depending on their country of origin, travellers may also
be required to show proof of polio and yellow fever vaccination.

o Registration on the ‘Sehaty’ app is mandatory to verify vaccination status and facilitate entry into the
country for all pilgrims.

• Ensure compliance with regulations: Encourage employees to always follow guidance provided by licensed
Hajj operators for a safe and organised pilgrimage. Ensure they adhere to designated time slots allocated by
authorities to help avoid overcrowding risks.

• Offer security briefings and heightened situational awareness: Provide pre-departure briefings on security
protocols, situational awareness practices and cultural sensitivities. Develop contingency plans to address

potential travel disruptions during the Hajj.
• Educate employees on the risks of extreme temperatures: To mitigate the effects of potentially extreme

temperatures, pilgrims should prioritise staying hydrated. Choosing lightweight and light-coloured clothing
helps regulate body temperature and reduce heat stress.

• Ensure crowd and emergency preparedness: Provide employees with a crowd management guide along
with tips for navigating densely populated areas. Encourage pilgrims to save emergency contact information
for police, ambulance services, embassy officials and local contacts on their mobile phones in case

immediate assistance is needed.

ENDS

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