The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) says mandatory medical screening for prospective Hajj 2027 pilgrims is a requirement of the Saudi Arabian government, urging applicants to disregard what it describes as false claims circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by its Communications Directorate on October 28, 2026, the PAOG said the screening was introduced by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in 2026 as a prerequisite for visa acquisition.
The Office dismissed allegations on social media that the Ghana Hajj Board was extorting money from prospective pilgrims through mandatory medical screening without authorisation from Saudi Arabia.
According to the PAOG, the exercise is not limited to Ghanaian pilgrims but forms part of a global screening programme being implemented in countries participating in the annual pilgrimage.
It cited Nigeria, Senegal, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States as countries undertaking similar exercises in compliance with Saudi Arabian regulations.
The PAOG said Ghana’s participation was intended to ensure compliance with Saudi requirements and international best practices while safeguarding pilgrims’ health during the pilgrimage.
On the GH¢650 screening fee, the Office clarified that the amount was charged by accredited hospitals and medical facilities providing the services, rather than by the Ghana Hajj Board.
It explained that the Board’s role was supervisory, ensuring that the exercise was conducted smoothly and in accordance with standards established by the Saudi authorities.
The clarification follows the circulation of social media claims questioning the legitimacy of the mandatory screening and the fees charged.
The PAOG urged prospective Hajj 2027 pilgrims to disregard what it described as false publications and comply with the approved medical screening schedule.
According to the statement, the exercise began in Tamale on October 3, 2026.
The Office reiterated the Ghana Hajj Board’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the welfare of Ghanaian pilgrims as preparations continue for the 2027 pilgrimage.
By: Graphic.co.m.gh
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