Umrah is one of the most spiritually significant journeys a Muslim can undertake — but knowing what it actually costs can feel almost as complicated as planning the pilgrimage itself. Prices vary wildly depending on where you fly from, when you travel, what hotel tier you choose, and whether you book a package or go independent. This guide, part of our comprehensive Hajj 2026 Guide, breaks down every line item so you can budget accurately and avoid costly surprises. Whether you are travelling from the United States, the United Kingdom, India, or anywhere else, the numbers below reflect real-world pricing for 2025 and 2026.
Best Time to Visit: January–February or October–November (off-peak, lower prices)
Getting There: Fly into Jeddah (IATA: JED) or Madinah (IATA: MED); transfer to Makkah by bus, taxi, or Haramain Train
Visa Required: Yes — Umrah e-visa via Nusuk platform
Budget: $800–$1,500 (South Asia) | $2,500–$5,000 (USA/UK) per person for a 7–10 day trip
Must-See: Masjid al-Haram (Makkah), Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Madinah)
Avoid: Booking through unlicensed agents — Saudi Arabia now mandates Nusuk platform compliance
The Total Cost of Umrah: What to Expect
The total cost of Umrah depends primarily on three factors: where you are flying from, what time of year you travel, and how much comfort you want. Here is a realistic range for a standard 7–10 day Umrah trip in 2025–2026:
| Departure Region | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium/Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States / Canada | $2,500–$3,500 | $3,500–$5,000 | $5,000–$8,000+ |
| United Kingdom / Europe | £1,200–£2,000 | £2,000–£3,500 | £3,500–£6,000+ |
| India | ₹70,000–₹1,20,000 | ₹1,20,000–₹2,00,000 | ₹2,00,000–₹4,00,000+ |
| Pakistan / Bangladesh | PKR 200,000–350,000 | PKR 350,000–600,000 | PKR 600,000–1,000,000+ |
| GCC Countries (already in region) | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$4,000+ |
These figures include flights, accommodation, visa, local transport, food, and basic expenses. They do not include shopping, gifts, or charitable donations you may wish to make during your journey.
Umrah Visa Costs
Saudi Arabia has streamlined the Umrah visa process through the Nusuk platform (umrah.nusuk.sa), which is now the mandatory booking system for all overseas pilgrims. As of 2025, hotel and transport bookings through Nusuk or licensed Nusuk-compliant providers are required before visa applications can proceed.
Visa Fee Breakdown
| Item | Cost (SAR) | Cost (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah e-visa consular fee | ~300–400 SAR | $80–$107 |
| Mandatory medical insurance | Included in visa fee | Included |
| Travel agent processing fee | Varies | $50–$200 |
| Total visa cost | ~400–600 SAR | $107–$200 |
Important 2025 Update: Saudi Arabia now requires all overseas Umrah pilgrims to book licensed accommodation and transport via the Nusuk Masar portal before submitting visa applications. Bookings through unofficial third-party sites or informal agents will not be accepted, and visa applications without verified bookings are rejected automatically. For full visa details, see our Saudi Arabia Visa Guide.
If you are already in Saudi Arabia on a tourist e-visa, you can perform Umrah without a separate Umrah visa — the standard tourist visa permits entry to Makkah and participation in Umrah rituals.
Flight Costs by Region
Flights are typically the single largest expense for pilgrims travelling from outside the Gulf region. Prices fluctuate significantly by season, with Ramadan and the weeks surrounding Hajj commanding the highest fares. For a comprehensive look at airlines, routes, and booking tips, see our Flights to Saudi Arabia guide.
Round-Trip Flight Costs to Jeddah (Economy Class)
| Departure City | Off-Peak | Peak (Ramadan) | Advance Booking Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | $600–$900 | $1,000–$1,500 | Book 4–6 months ahead |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | $800–$1,100 | $1,200–$1,800 | Book 4–6 months ahead |
| London (LHR) | £350–£550 | £600–£900 | Book 3–5 months ahead |
| Delhi / Mumbai (DEL/BOM) | ₹25,000–₹45,000 | ₹50,000–₹80,000 | Book 3–4 months ahead |
| Lahore / Islamabad | PKR 80,000–120,000 | PKR 150,000–210,000 | Book 3–4 months ahead |
| Cairo (CAI) | $200–$350 | $400–$600 | Book 2–3 months ahead |
| Jakarta (CGK) | $400–$600 | $700–$1,000 | Book 4–5 months ahead |
Money-Saving Tip: Saudi Airlines (Saudia), flynas, and flyadeal often run promotional fares for Umrah travellers during off-peak months. Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) are consistently cheaper than weekend flights. Consider flying into Madinah instead of Jeddah — fares are sometimes 10–15% lower, and you can begin your trip with the Madinah visit before heading to Makkah.
Accommodation Costs in Makkah
Where you stay in Makkah has the biggest impact on your overall budget after flights. The key variable is distance from Masjid al-Haram — hotels within walking distance of the Haram command premium rates, while those further out offer significant savings but require daily transport.
Makkah Hotel Prices Per Night (2025–2026)
| Category | Distance from Haram | Off-Peak Per Night | Ramadan Per Night | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (2–3 star) | 1–2 km (shuttle needed) | $40–$80 | $80–$150 | Al Kiswah Towers, Elaf Al Mashaer |
| Mid-Range (4 star) | 500m–1 km (walkable) | $100–$200 | $200–$350 | Anjum Hotel, Elaf Ajyad, Makkah Millennium Towers |
| Luxury (5 star) | Under 500m | $200–$400 | $400–$700 | Swissotel Al Maqam, Hilton Suites |
| Ultra-Luxury | Adjacent to Haram | $350–$600+ | $700–$1,200+ | Raffles Makkah Palace, Fairmont Clock Tower |
For a 5-night stay in Makkah, budget travellers should expect to spend $200–$400 on accommodation, mid-range travellers $500–$1,000, and luxury travellers $1,000–$3,000 or more.
Booking Tip: The Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower and Raffles Makkah Palace are directly connected to Masjid al-Haram via enclosed walkways — a significant advantage during extreme summer heat. However, expect to pay $500–$1,200+ per night during peak season. For a broader look at accommodation options across the Kingdom, check our Saudi Arabia Hotels Guide.
Accommodation Costs in Madinah
Most Umrah itineraries include 2–4 nights in Madinah to visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque). The good news: Madinah hotels are generally 20–30% cheaper than equivalent properties in Makkah.
Madinah Hotel Prices Per Night (2025–2026)
| Category | Distance from Prophet’s Mosque | Off-Peak Per Night | Ramadan Per Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (2–3 star) | 1–2 km | $30–$60 | $60–$120 |
| Mid-Range (4 star) | 300m–1 km | $70–$150 | $150–$280 |
| Luxury (5 star) | Under 300m | $150–$300 | $300–$500 |
Transport Costs Within Saudi Arabia
Getting between Makkah, Madinah, and the airport involves several transport options. Since 2025, the Nusuk platform requires transport bookings as part of the visa process, so plan these costs in advance. For more on getting around the Kingdom, see our Getting Around Saudi Arabia guide.
Transport Options and Prices
| Route | Mode | Cost Per Person | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Airport → Makkah | SAPTCO bus | 30–50 SAR ($8–$13) | 1.5–2 hours |
| Jeddah Airport → Makkah | Private taxi / Uber | 150–250 SAR ($40–$67) | 1–1.5 hours |
| Makkah → Madinah | Haramain High-Speed Train | 150–200 SAR ($40–$53) economy | ~2 hours 20 min |
| Makkah → Madinah | Haramain Train (business) | 250–362 SAR ($67–$97) | ~2 hours 20 min |
| Makkah → Madinah | SAPTCO bus | 80–120 SAR ($21–$32) | 5–6 hours |
| Makkah → Madinah | Private car / taxi | 500–800 SAR ($133–$213) | 4–5 hours |
| Local transport (Makkah) | Uber / Careem per ride | 15–40 SAR ($4–$11) | Varies |
| Hotel shuttle to Haram | Hotel service | Free–50 SAR ($0–$13) | 10–20 min |
Haramain Train Tip: The high-speed rail link between Makkah and Madinah (via Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City) is the fastest and most comfortable intercity option. Book tickets in advance at sar.hhr.sa — seats fill quickly during peak season, and walk-up fares can be higher. Economy class offers excellent value at around 150–200 SAR ($40–$53).
Food and Daily Expenses
Food in the holy cities is reasonably priced, especially if you eat at local restaurants rather than hotel dining rooms. Budget for the following daily costs per person. For more on Saudi cuisine, see our Saudi Arabia Food and Dining Guide.
Daily Food Budget
| Eating Style | Cost Per Day (Per Person) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra-budget | $8–$15 (30–55 SAR) | Street food, bakeries, supermarket meals |
| Budget | $15–$25 (55–95 SAR) | Local restaurants, shawarma, rice dishes |
| Mid-range | $25–$45 (95–170 SAR) | Sit-down restaurants, occasional hotel meals |
| Hotel dining | $45–$80+ (170–300+ SAR) | Hotel buffets, room service, upscale dining |
Popular affordable meals near the Haram: Shawarma wraps (8–15 SAR), kabsa rice platters (20–35 SAR), mandi lamb (25–40 SAR), grilled chicken meals (15–25 SAR), and fresh fruit juice (5–10 SAR). Al Baik — Saudi Arabia’s beloved fast-food chain — serves a full chicken meal for around 19 SAR ($5).
Other Daily Expenses
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Zamzam water | Free (available at the Haram) |
| SIM card / eSIM (data plan) | 50–100 SAR ($13–$27) for 10–30 days |
| Laundry service | 30–60 SAR ($8–$16) per load |
| Ihram garments (men) | 30–80 SAR ($8–$21) |
| Prayer rug | 15–50 SAR ($4–$13) |
| Toiletries and unscented soap | 20–40 SAR ($5–$11) |
For a guide on mobile connectivity, see our Saudi Arabia SIM Card and eSIM Guide. For currency exchange tips, check the Saudi Arabia Currency Guide.
Umrah Package vs Independent Booking
One of the biggest decisions affecting your budget is whether to book a package through a travel agent or arrange everything independently. Both approaches have trade-offs.
Package Booking
Typical inclusions: Umrah visa processing, return flights, hotel accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, airport transfers, intercity transport, and sometimes meals and guided Ziyarat tours.
- Budget packages (USA): $2,500–$3,500 per person — basic 3-star hotels, economy flights, shared transport
- Standard packages (USA): $3,500–$5,000 per person — 4-star hotels within walking distance of Haram, economy flights
- Premium packages (USA): $5,000–$8,000+ per person — 5-star hotels adjacent to Haram, premium flights, private transport, guided tours
- Budget packages (UK): £1,200–£2,000 per person
- Budget packages (India): ₹70,000–₹1,20,000 per person
Nusuk Compliance Warning: Since 2025, only packages booked through Nusuk-compliant licensed agents are valid for visa processing. Always verify your agent is registered on the Nusuk platform before paying. Unlicensed operators cannot process your visa, regardless of what they promise.
Independent Booking
Booking each component separately can save 15–25% compared to package prices, but requires more planning. Here is what an independent 7-night Umrah trip from the USA might cost:
| Component | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights (round-trip) | $700 | $900 | $2,500 |
| Visa + processing | $120 | $150 | $200 |
| Makkah hotel (5 nights) | $250 | $600 | $2,000 |
| Madinah hotel (2 nights) | $80 | $200 | $600 |
| Transport (airport + intercity) | $80 | $120 | $300 |
| Food (7 days) | $105 | $210 | $420 |
| Miscellaneous | $65 | $120 | $200 |
| Total | $1,400 | $2,300 | $6,220 |
The budget column shows what is achievable with careful planning, off-peak travel, and willingness to stay further from the Haram. The mid-range column reflects a comfortable experience with hotels within walking distance. The luxury column is for those who want five-star proximity and premium services.
Seasonal Price Variations
When you perform Umrah has a dramatic impact on cost. Unlike Hajj, which occurs on fixed dates in the Islamic calendar, Umrah can be performed year-round — giving you significant control over pricing.
Price Impact by Season
| Season | Months (approximate) | Price Impact | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramadan | Varies (Islamic calendar) | +50–100% above baseline | Extremely crowded |
| Hajj season | Dhul Hijjah (varies) | +40–80% (limited Umrah availability) | Maximum capacity |
| School holidays (Dec–Jan) | December–January | +20–40% | Very busy |
| Spring shoulder | March–April (non-Ramadan years) | Baseline | Moderate |
| Summer off-peak | July–August | -10–20% (but extreme heat) | Lower |
| Autumn off-peak | October–November | -15–25% | Lowest crowds |
Best Value Window: October and November typically offer the best combination of lower prices, comfortable weather, and manageable crowds. January and February are also good value, though temperatures can drop to 15–20°C in Madinah at night. For month-by-month weather and event guidance, see Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia.
Hidden Costs and Budget Traps
Even well-planned Umrah budgets can be thrown off by expenses that pilgrims do not anticipate. Here are the most common hidden costs:
Common Unexpected Expenses
- Zamzam water shipping: While Zamzam water is free to drink at the Haram, shipping large quantities home can cost $30–$100+ depending on volume and destination. Airlines limit Zamzam to 5–10 litres in checked luggage.
- Gift shopping: Dates, prayer beads (misbaha), abayas, attar (perfume oil), and prayer rugs are popular gifts. Budget $100–$300 if buying for family and friends — it adds up fast.
- Excess baggage fees: Returning with gifts and Zamzam often means overweight luggage. Budget $50–$150 for extra baggage fees.
- Vaccination requirements: Some nationalities require meningitis (ACWY) vaccination before visa approval. Cost: $50–$150 depending on your country.
- Travel insurance: While basic medical insurance is included in the Umrah visa fee, comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation costs $30–$80 for a 7–14 day trip. See our Saudi Arabia Travel Insurance Guide.
- Currency exchange losses: Airport exchange rates are notoriously poor. Using ATMs in Saudi Arabia with a no-foreign-transaction-fee card saves 3–5% compared to airport exchanges.
- Ziyarat tours: Guided tours to historical Islamic sites in Makkah and Madinah cost 50–200 SAR ($13–$53) per person. Popular stops include Jabal al-Nour (Cave of Hira), Jabal Thawr, Masjid Quba, and the Uhud battlefield.
- Barber for Halq/Taqsir: The ritual hair cutting or shaving after Umrah costs 10–30 SAR ($3–$8) — a small cost, but one that surprises first-timers.
How to Save Money on Umrah
With careful planning, you can reduce your Umrah costs by 20–40% without sacrificing the spiritual quality of your journey.
Flight Savings
- Book 4–6 months in advance — last-minute Umrah flights can cost 30–50% more
- Travel mid-week — Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday departures are cheapest
- Consider connecting flights — direct flights are convenient but one-stop options via Istanbul, Dubai, or Doha are often $200–$400 cheaper from the USA
- Fly into Madinah — fares are often 10–15% lower than Jeddah, and you can start your trip there
- Use airline miles — Saudia, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways all fly to Jeddah and accept frequent flyer redemptions
Accommodation Savings
- Stay 1–2 km from the Haram — hotels just outside the immediate perimeter are 40–60% cheaper and most offer free shuttle services
- Share rooms — triple and quad occupancy rooms reduce per-person cost by 25–40% compared to double rooms
- Book directly on Nusuk — avoiding agent markups on accommodation can save $100–$300
- Consider apartment-style accommodation — serviced apartments with kitchens save on food costs and offer more space for families
General Savings
- Travel during off-peak months (October–November or January–February)
- Eat at local restaurants — Al Baik, Kudu, and independent restaurants near the Haram serve meals for $3–$8
- Bring Ihram from home — buying in Makkah costs more than ordering online beforehand
- Use Uber or Careem instead of unlicensed taxis — metered rides prevent overcharging
- Download offline maps — avoid expensive roaming data by downloading maps before arriving
- Pack light — avoid excess baggage fees by bringing only essentials and leaving room for return purchases
Umrah During Ramadan: Premium Pricing Explained
Performing Umrah during Ramadan is considered equivalent in reward to Hajj (according to hadith), making it the most spiritually sought-after time — and consequently the most expensive. Expect all costs to increase significantly.
Ramadan Umrah Cost Multipliers
- Flights: 20–40% more expensive than off-peak
- Hotels in Makkah: 50–100% more expensive; many require minimum 10–15 night bookings
- Hotels in Madinah: 40–70% more expensive
- Transport: 10–20% higher due to demand
- Packages: Ramadan packages from the USA typically start at $4,000–$5,000 per person for budget options
If budget is a concern, consider performing Umrah in the last 10 days of Sha’ban (the month before Ramadan) — you get the spiritual atmosphere of the approaching holy month at off-peak prices, and if your trip overlaps with the start of Ramadan, you experience both.
Umrah Cost for Families
Travelling as a family significantly changes the cost calculation. Children under 2 typically fly free or at 10% of the adult fare, while children aged 2–11 receive 25–50% discounts on flights. Hotel costs, however, are per room rather than per person, making family travel proportionally cheaper per head. If you are planning a family trip to Saudi Arabia, these estimates help:
Estimated Family Costs (2 Adults + 2 Children, 7 Nights, from USA)
| Component | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Flights (family of 4) | $2,200 | $3,200 |
| Visas (4 persons) | $480 | $600 |
| Makkah hotel — 1 family room (5 nights) | $350 | $750 |
| Madinah hotel — 1 family room (2 nights) | $120 | $250 |
| Transport | $200 | $350 |
| Food (7 days, family) | $280 | $560 |
| Miscellaneous | $150 | $300 |
| Total (family of 4) | $3,780 | $6,010 |
| Per person | $945 | $1,503 |
Practical Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
If this is your first Umrah, the costs are only part of the preparation. Here are practical considerations that affect your budget and experience:
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential — you will walk 5–15 km per day during Tawaf, Sa’i, and getting to and from your hotel. Invest in quality shoes before your trip rather than buying in Makkah.
- Bring a portable phone charger — long days at the mosque mean your phone battery will not last. A good power bank costs $15–$30 at home versus $30–$50 in Makkah.
- Pack unscented toiletries — in the state of Ihram, scented products are not permitted. Buy unscented soap and deodorant before travelling.
- Carry cash and card — most hotels and restaurants accept cards, but small shops and taxis near the Haram may be cash-only. ATMs are widely available.
- Learn basic Arabic phrases — while English is widely understood in the Haram area, basic Arabic helps with taxis, small shops, and enhances your overall experience.
For a complete guide to what to pack, see our Umrah Packing List for Men and Women. First-time pilgrims should also read our detailed Umrah for First Timers guide and the comprehensive Umrah Guide 2026 for ritual step-by-step instructions.
What to Wear: Dress Code Essentials
Men wear two unstitched white cloths (Ihram) during the Umrah rituals, which cost 30–80 SAR ($8–$21) if purchased in Makkah. Women have no specific garment requirement but must dress modestly with hijab. Outside of the ritual state, normal modest clothing applies — for details, see our Saudi Arabia Dress Code for Tourists guide.
How Much Spending Money to Bring
Beyond your pre-paid expenses (flights, hotel, visa, transport), here is how much spending money to budget for a 7-day Umrah trip:
| Spending Category | Budget Traveller | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food and drinks | $100 | $200 | $350 |
| Local transport | $30 | $60 | $120 |
| SIM card / data | $15 | $25 | $25 |
| Gifts and shopping | $50 | $150 | $300 |
| Ziyarat tours | $15 | $40 | $80 |
| Miscellaneous | $40 | $75 | $125 |
| Total spending money | $250 | $550 | $1,000 |
Explore More Saudi Arabia Travel Guides
- Hajj 2026 Guide — Dates, registration, costs, and what to expect for Hajj
- Umrah Guide 2026 — Complete rituals, best times, and everything you need to know
- Umrah for First Timers — Step-by-step guide for your first pilgrimage
- Umrah Packing List — What to bring for men and women
- Mecca Travel Guide 2026 — The holiest city in Islam
- Medina Travel Guide 2026 — The Prophet’s city
- Saudi Arabia Travel Guide 2026 — The complete guide to visiting the Kingdom
- Saudi Arabia Visa Guide — Every visa type explained