Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.
Health certificates authenticating that individuals are free of the H1N1 virus will be required for visitors to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who are performing Haj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. According to a Khaleej Times article, the certificate will be “issued by accredited government health providers, not private health facilities, to guarantee greater accuracy in medical examination.” The UAE will not permit pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia without the certificate.
In addition:
- the certificate will be signed by the doctor to ensure accuracy;
- an e-system will be used to prevent fraud; and
- screening for chronic diseases that impact immune systems will be conducted, with the goal of protecting pilgrims from diseases.