DT Medical precautions
Yes, insha’Allah. We will provide non-perfumed sanitising wipes, face masks and face shields.
As we approach our departure date we will issue protocols for managing groups taking into consideration the latest social distancing guidelines.
These measures will include reducing the number of pilgrims per group, and we will make masks, face shields and sanitising wipes available to be used throughout the trip.
The exact criteria and any new measures to obtain the Hajj visa are yet to be announced. We expect a further update from the Saudi authorities in June InshAllah.
The criteria for social distancing are continuously updated by the government. If Hajj is going ahead Dome Tours will:
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- Provide face shields, face masks, & non-perfumed sanitising wipes;
- Will reduce the number of pilgrims in each group/coach when travelling from site to site;
- Will coordinate with our hotels to review the room sharing policy;
- Liaise with the Hajj authorities regarding the space provided in the Hajj sites;
- Review the medical forms to exclude the pilgrims who are at an increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus.
These measures are continually being reviewed so further precautions may be added.
As we approach our departure date, we will assist in identifying pharmacies that stock Meningitis ACWY in major cities.
Of course, no one can provide a 100% guarantee of safety. As a diligent tour operator, we will ensure we make the best possible preparation with adequate provision of PPE, adoption of social distancing measures, imparting sensible advice, providing medical assistance etc. Beyond this, it is also up to each individual to remain vigilant, to ensure he/she follows the advice given and stays out of harm’s way. Last but not least, one must trust in Allah (swt) and regularly recite supplications for protection and well-being.
We will liaise with the local authorities on the ground should any one of our pilgrims become infected and follow their guidance. This may entail additional testing and/or quarantine measures for those immediately in contact with the affected individual.
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the vaccination requirement for Hajj was Meningitis ACWY. The vaccination is required at least 10 days before the date of travel.
Visa requirements are:
- Valid passport for at least 6 months from the date of travel
- 2 passport size photographs
- Proof of address for EU citizens
- Proof of residency in the UK valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel
Following the pandemic outbreak, we expect there will be additional requirements to obtain the visa. Further details will be available in due course.
Guidance on Social Distancing in the UK was introduced by the government on the 16th of March: (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people/guidance-on-social-distancing-for-everyone-in-the-uk-and-protecting-older-people-and-vulnerable-adults).
This was then withdrawn and updated on the 1st of May: (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/full-guidance-on-staying-at-home-and-away-from-others/full-guidance-on-staying-at-home-and-away-from-others).
It was updated again on the 11th of May: (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing).
We will continue to monitor further updates and follow the guidelines outlined to ensure we have the required safety measures in place during various aspects of the services provided.