The one Saudi Arabia checks at the border for Hajj and Umrah.
Meningococcal ACWY protects against four strains of the bacteria that cause meningitis and septicaemia. For most trips it's a health recommendation, but Saudi Arabia legally requires a valid certificate from every pilgrim arriving for Hajj or Umrah — and immigration officers do check the paperwork on arrival.
One country enforces it as an entry requirement (Saudi Arabia, for Hajj/Umrah visas). A handful of others recommend it strongly for the African 'meningitis belt' during the dry season. Everywhere else it's optional and travel-clinic-led.
Hajj and Umrah visa applications require you to submit proof of a valid ACWY certificate. Airlines check it before boarding and immigration checks it again on arrival. A meningitis B jab or an older MenC-only shot does not count.
The certificate is only accepted if the vaccine was given at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia, and within the last 5 years (3 years for the polysaccharide version, which is now rare). Book earlier than you think.
Between December and June, ACWY is recommended for travellers spending time in the sub-Saharan African meningitis belt (roughly Senegal across to Ethiopia). No border check, but outbreaks do happen.
MenB (Bexsero) is a separate vaccine given to babies in the UK and doesn't cover ACWY. If you had MenC as a teenager, you likely still need the ACWY booster for travel — check with your GP.
Border staff can refuse entry without proof. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Required for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims — certificate checked on arrival.
No certificate required at the border, but public health bodies recommend the jab for these destinations or regions.
No — the requirement is tied to Hajj and Umrah visas. Regular tourist e-visas don't demand the certificate, but if you're planning to visit Mecca or Medina, you're on an Umrah visa and it applies.
If it was within the last 5 years and you have the record to prove it, yes. If it's older than 5 years, Saudi Arabia will not accept the certificate and you'll need a booster.
Yes — UK teenagers are offered MenACWY before starting university. The vaccine is the same; you just need proof and the 5-year validity window.
Many high-street pharmacy travel clinics offer it. If you need the ICVP-style certificate for Saudi Arabia, ask specifically for a signed travel certificate — a receipt is not enough.