Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Makkah to perform Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of year. In 2024 alone, nearly 17 million foreign pilgrims performed Umrah, according to Saudi Gazette, and the Kingdom aims to welcome 30 million annually by 2030 under its Vision 2030 programme. Whether you are planning your first Umrah or returning after years, the rules, costs, and logistics have changed significantly in recent years.
This guide covers everything you need to know about performing Umrah in 2026: the step-by-step rituals, current visa requirements, the mandatory Nusuk platform, costs from different countries, the best times to travel, accommodation options near the Haram, health requirements, and practical tips for a smooth pilgrimage.
Grand Mosque in Makkah” />What Is Umrah and Why Is It Important?
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during specific days of Dhul Hijjah. The word “Umrah” derives from the Arabic root meaning “to visit a populated place,” and the pilgrimage involves visiting the Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque) and performing a series of prescribed rituals.
While Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and obligatory for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it, Umrah is considered a Sunnah (recommended) act of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to perform Umrah, and a hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari states that performing Umrah during Ramadan carries the reward equivalent to Hajj.
Umrah holds deep spiritual significance. It is an act of purification, devotion, and renewal of faith. Pilgrims seek forgiveness, make supplications, and experience the unity of the Muslim community by joining millions of fellow believers in worship at Islam’s holiest site.
How Does Umrah Differ from Hajj?
Understanding the distinction between Umrah and Hajj is essential for any pilgrim. According to Islamic Relief UK, the key differences span timing, obligation, duration, and ritual complexity.
| Aspect | Umrah | Hajj |
|---|---|---|
| Islamic obligation | Sunnah (strongly recommended) | Fardh (obligatory, fifth pillar of Islam) |
| Timing | Any time of year (except during Hajj days) | 8th-12th/13th Dhul Hijjah only |
| Duration | 3-6 hours for rituals; trips typically 7-14 days | 5-6 days of rituals; trips typically 2-3 weeks |
| Location | Makkah only (Masjid al-Haram) | Makkah, Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah |
| Key rituals | Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, Halq/Taqsir | All Umrah rituals plus Wuquf at Arafat, stoning at Jamarat, animal sacrifice |
| Cost (average from UK) | £900-£1,500 | £5,000-£12,000+ |
| Visa | Umrah visa, tourist e-Visa, or transit visa | Dedicated Hajj visa required |
| Annual participants (2024) | ~17 million foreign pilgrims | ~1.8 million pilgrims |
What Are the Step-by-Step Rituals of Umrah?
Umrah consists of four essential rituals performed in sequence. Each step carries specific rules and supplications. Here is a detailed walkthrough based on guidance from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official Nusuk platform.
Step 1: Entering Ihram
Ihram is both a physical state and a spiritual intention. Before reaching the designated Miqat boundary point, pilgrims must:
- Perform ghusl (ritual bathing) and trim nails and body hair
- Men: Wear two plain, white, unstitched sheets of cloth. One wraps around the waist (izar) and the other drapes over the left shoulder (rida). Wear open-toed sandals that expose the ankles and the top of the feet
- Women: Wear loose, modest clothing that covers the body (typically an abaya and hijab). There is no specific colour requirement. The face and hands should remain uncovered during Ihram
- Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah by declaring: “Labbaika Allahumma Umrah” (O Allah, I respond to Your call to perform Umrah)
- Recite the Talbiyah continuously: “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik La Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk, La Shareeka Lak”
- Stand facing the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) at the eastern corner of the Kaaba
- Raise your right hand toward the Black Stone and say: “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar”
- Walk counterclockwise around the Kaaba, completing seven full circuits
- During the first three circuits (for men), perform Raml — walking briskly with short steps while moving the shoulders
- Engage in supplication and remembrance of Allah throughout. There are no mandatory specific duas for each circuit, though many scholars recommend particular supplications
- After completing seven circuits, pray two rak’ahs (units of prayer) behind Maqam Ibrahim (the Station of Abraham), if possible
- Drink Zamzam water, which is freely available throughout the mosque
- Begin at the hill of Safa. Face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and make supplication
- Walk toward the hill of Marwah. This counts as one lap
- At Marwah, face the Kaaba again and make supplication
- Walk back to Safa. This counts as the second lap
- Complete seven laps in total (ending at Marwah)
- Between the two green fluorescent markers, men should jog lightly (this section marks where Hajar ran most desperately)
- Men may choose Halq (complete head shaving) or Taqsir (shortening the hair evenly). Halq is considered more virtuous
- Women cut approximately 1-2 centimetres from the ends of their hair. Women do not shave their heads
- Valid passport with at least six months’ validity from date of travel
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Hotel bookings in Makkah and/or Madinah
- Travel insurance covering health emergencies
- Proof of meningitis (ACWY) vaccination (certificate must be presented)
- Download the Nusuk app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store (search for “Nusuk” by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah)
- Wait 24-48 hours after your visa is issued before attempting registration, to ensure your visa details have synced in the Saudi system
- Register using your visa number and passport number
- Book your Umrah permit through the app, selecting your preferred date and time slot for visiting Masjid al-Haram
- Book a Rawdah permit (optional but highly recommended) for visiting the Rawdah ash-Sharifah section of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah
- Real-time capacity alerts: The app shows live occupancy of prayer areas in Masjid al-Haram
- Time-slot notifications: Alerts for booked prayer sessions and peak-time warnings
- Multilingual support: Available in Arabic, English, Urdu, Indonesian, Turkish, and other languages
- Integrated packages: Book complete Umrah packages (visa + hotel + transport) directly through the platform
- Swissotel Al Maqam: Connected directly to the Haram via a private entrance (~50 metres). From $200/night off-peak, $500+/night during Ramadan
- Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower: Two-minute walk to the Haram (~100 metres). From $180/night off-peak
- Pullman ZamZam Makkah: One-minute walk to the Haram (~50 metres). From $170/night off-peak
- Hilton Suites Makkah: Five-minute walk. From $150/night off-peak
- Anjum Hotel Makkah: ~400 metres from the Haram. From $80/night off-peak
- Elaf Ajyad Hotel: Walking distance. From $70/night off-peak
- Jabal Omar Marriott: Part of the massive Jabal Omar development. From $120/night off-peak
- Age requirement: Women must be 18 years or older to travel without a mahram
- Group travel recommended: While not legally required, joining an organised Umrah group or booking through an authorised operator is strongly recommended, especially for first-time pilgrims
- Women-only packages: Many tour operators now offer specialised women-only Umrah packages with female group leaders
- Ihram for women: Women wear modest, loose-fitting clothing (abaya and hijab). There is no specific colour requirement. Unlike men, women do not need to wear special unstitched garments
- During Tawaf and Sa’i: Women follow the same ritual steps as men. However, women do not perform Raml (brisk walking) during Tawaf or jogging between the green markers during Sa’i
- Hair cutting: Women trim approximately 1-2 centimetres from the ends of their hair (they do not shave)
- Seasonal influenza vaccine (strongly recommended by WHO for Umrah pilgrims)
- COVID-19 (up-to-date vaccination recommended but not required as of 2026)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Heat stroke prevention: Makkah temperatures can exceed 40°C in summer. Drink water frequently, use umbrellas, and rest between rituals
- Respiratory illness: Large crowds increase the risk of respiratory infections. Carry face masks and hand sanitiser
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is now required for Umrah visa applications, covering emergency medical treatment in Saudi Arabia
- Prescription medications: Bring sufficient supplies of any regular medications. Carry a doctor’s letter in English describing your conditions and prescriptions. Some medications common in other countries may be controlled substances in Saudi Arabia
- Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
- Printed visa or e-Visa confirmation
- Vaccination certificates (especially meningitis ACWY)
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Return flight tickets
- Travel insurance documents
- Photocopies of all documents (stored separately from originals)
- Men: Two sets of Ihram (white unstitched cloth). Choose thicker cotton or towelling fabric rather than thin cotton, which becomes transparent when wet with sweat. Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for non-Ihram times (thobes/jubbahs or shalwar kameez are ideal)
- Women: Modest, loose-fitting clothing in dark or neutral colours. White or light-coloured hijabs for Ihram. Abayas for everyday wear
- Footwear: Comfortable, flat, open-toed sandals for Ihram (ankles and top of foot must be exposed for men). Bring a second pair of comfortable walking shoes for non-Ihram times
- Unscented soap, shampoo, and deodorant (fragranced products are prohibited during Ihram)
- Toothbrush and unscented toothpaste
- Sunscreen (unscented, high SPF)
- Lip balm
- Wet wipes and tissues
- Prescription medications with doctor’s letter
- Pain relief, cold and flu medication, anti-diarrhoeal tablets
- Electrolyte sachets or tablets (essential for hydration in heat)
- Plasters/bandages for blisters
- Small prayer mat (for praying outside the mosque)
- Compact Quran or Quran app on your phone
- Waist belt or money pouch for valuables
- Portable phone charger
- Universal travel adapter (Saudi Arabia uses Type G plugs, same as the UK)
- 30 million target: The Kingdom aims to welcome 30 million Umrah pilgrims annually by 2030, up from the 8 million baseline when Vision 2030 was launched in 2016. In Q1 2025 alone, over 15 million pilgrims (domestic and international) performed Umrah, according to GASTAT
- Grand Mosque expansion: The total area of Masjid al-Haram and its facilities has been expanded to 750,000 square metres, at a cost exceeding SAR 80 billion ($21.3 billion), according to Saudi Vision 2030 reports. The Mataf capacity was increased from approximately 50,000 to over 130,000 worshippers per hour
- Haramain High-Speed Railway: The railway added 2 million seats in 2025 and transported nearly 70 per cent of international Umrah pilgrims between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, with journey times under 45 minutes
- Digital transformation: The Nusuk platform has reduced visa processing times to 1-3 days for most applicants, compared to weeks under the old system
- 2026 safety regulations: New measures include real-time digital capacity monitoring at mosque entrances, restrictions on private vehicles near the mosque, dedicated pathways and electric carts for elderly and disabled pilgrims, and enhanced heat-stroke prevention guidance
Restrictions during Ihram: Once in the state of Ihram, pilgrims must not use perfume or fragranced products, cut hair or nails, engage in marital relations, hunt or kill animals, argue or use foul language, or (for men) cover the head or wear stitched clothing.
Step 2: Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims proceed to the Mataf area surrounding the Kaaba to perform Tawaf:
Practical tip: The Mataf area can accommodate over 130,000 worshippers per hour following the Grand Mosque expansion, according to Saudi Vision 2030 reports. During peak times, pilgrims may perform Tawaf on the upper floors, which is equally valid.
Step 3: Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)
Sa’i commemorates the story of Hajar (Hagar), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, who ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah searching for water for her infant son Ismail. The ritual involves:
The Mas’a (the enclosed corridor for Sa’i) is approximately 450 metres long and fully air-conditioned. It is accessible to wheelchair users, with smooth surfaces and adequate space for mobility aids.
Step 4: Halq or Taqsir (Hair Cutting)
The final ritual marks the pilgrim’s exit from the state of Ihram:
Once the hair is cut, all Ihram restrictions are lifted and the Umrah is complete. Barber services are available throughout the areas surrounding Masjid al-Haram.
What Are the Miqat Boundary Points?
The Miqat is the boundary beyond which pilgrims must not pass without entering the state of Ihram. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) designated four Miqat points, and a fifth was later established by the Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. According to Hajj Umrah Planner, the five Miqat locations are:
| Miqat | Direction from Makkah | Distance | Serves Pilgrims From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhul Hulayfah (Abyar Ali) | North | ~450 km | Madinah and those approaching from the north |
| Al-Juhfah (near Rabigh) | Northwest | ~183 km | Syria, Egypt, Turkey, North Africa, Europe, Americas |
| Qarn al-Manazil (As-Sayl al-Kabir) | East | ~75 km | Najd, Riyadh, Taif, Gulf states |
| Yalamlam (As-Sadiyah) | South | ~92 km | Yemen, South Asia, Southeast Asia |
| Dhat Irq | Northeast | ~90 km | Iraq, Iran, Central Asia |
For pilgrims flying into Jeddah: Most international flights pass over one of these Miqat points. Airlines typically announce when the plane is approaching the Miqat, giving passengers time to enter Ihram. Many pilgrims choose to enter Ihram before boarding their flight to avoid rushing.
For pilgrims already in Makkah who wish to perform an additional Umrah: You must travel outside the Haram boundary to re-enter Ihram. The most convenient location is Masjid Aisha (also known as Masjid Taneem), approximately 7.5 km from Masjid al-Haram, easily reachable by taxi.
What Visa Do You Need for Umrah in 2026?
Saudi Arabia has significantly simplified its Umrah visa process in recent years. Since 2022, the Kingdom has allowed pilgrims to perform Umrah on multiple visa types, not just the traditional Umrah visa. According to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nusuk platform, the following options are available:
Visa Options for Umrah
| Visa Type | Validity | Umrah Permitted? | Cost (approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umrah Visa | 90 days (single entry) | Yes | Free-$100 | Dedicated pilgrims from countries requiring Umrah visa |
| Tourist e-Visa | 1 year (multiple entry, 90 days per visit) | Yes (except during Hajj) | SAR 480 (~$128) | Pilgrims from 63+ eligible countries wanting flexibility |
| Transit Visa | 96 hours | Yes | Free | Short stopovers |
| Visit Visa | Varies | Yes | Varies | Business/family visitors adding Umrah |
Key 2026 deadlines (Umrah season): According to Gulf News, the last date to apply for an Umrah visa for the 1447 AH season was 20 March 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447 AH). The last entry into Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa is 3 April 2026 (15 Shawwal), and the last exit date is 18 April 2026 (1 Dhul Qadah). Umrah activities resume after Hajj, typically from the 15th of Dhul Hijjah.
General Visa Requirements
For detailed information on all Saudi visa types, see our Saudi Arabia Travel Guide.
How Does the Nusuk Platform Work?
The Nusuk platform, operated by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, is now mandatory for all Umrah pilgrims in 2026. According to the Ministry, the platform integrates visa issuance, permit booking, accommodation, and transportation into a single digital system.
How to Register on Nusuk
Key Nusuk Features for 2026
According to Travel and Tour World, the Grand Mosque now features digital boards at its entrances displaying real-time capacity: green indicates available space, red means full capacity. This system, integrated with the Nusuk app, helps pilgrims plan their visits to avoid dangerous overcrowding.
When Is the Best Time to Perform Umrah?
The best time depends on your priorities: spiritual reward, comfort, crowd levels, or cost. Here is a month-by-month overview based on analysis from multiple travel sources.
| Period | Weather | Crowds | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ramadan (Feb-Mar 2026) | Mild, 25-32°C | Very high (2-3 million) | Peak pricing (2-3x normal) | Maximum spiritual reward |
| October-December | Pleasant, 25-30°C | Moderate | Moderate | Comfortable weather + reasonable prices |
| January-February | Cool, 20-28°C | Low to moderate | Low to moderate | Best value + mild weather |
| March-April (post-Ramadan) | Warm, 30-35°C | Low | Lower | Quiet period after Ramadan rush |
| May (Hajj season) | Hot, 35-40°C | Umrah suspended during Hajj days | N/A | Umrah not available during Hajj |
| June-September | Very hot, 38-45°C | Low | Lowest | Budget pilgrims who can handle extreme heat |
Ramadan Umrah: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that performing Umrah during Ramadan carries the reward equivalent to performing Hajj. According to multiple hadith collections, this makes Ramadan the most popular time for Umrah. In 2026, Ramadan fell approximately from 17 February to 18 March. Expect hotel prices to be two to three times higher than normal months, particularly during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
Our recommendation: For first-time pilgrims seeking a balance between spiritual significance and comfort, consider the first 20 days of Ramadan (avoiding the extreme crowds of the last ten nights) or the period from October to January, when temperatures are mild and prices are moderate.
How Much Does Umrah Cost in 2026?
Umrah costs vary significantly depending on your country of origin, the season, accommodation standards, and whether you book an all-inclusive package or arrange things independently. Here is a breakdown based on current market prices from major travel operators.
Cost by Country of Origin
| Country | Budget Package | Standard Package | Premium/Luxury Package | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $1,500-$2,500 | $3,000-$3,800 | $4,000-$5,000+ | 10-14 days |
| United Kingdom | £600-£900 | £900-£1,500 | £1,500-£3,000+ | 7-14 days |
| India | Rs 85,000-1,10,000 | Rs 1,10,000-2,50,000 | Rs 2,50,000+ | 10-15 days |
| Pakistan | PKR 200,000-250,000 | PKR 250,000-400,000 | PKR 400,000-500,000+ | 14-21 days |
Sources: Al Madinah Travels (USA), Love Umrah (UK), Hajj Umrah Tour Package (India), Al-Khair (Pakistan). Prices are per person based on double/shared occupancy and may vary by season and operator.
Cost Breakdown for Independent Travellers
| Expense | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights (return) | $400-$700 | $700-$1,200 | Varies hugely by origin; book 3-4 months ahead |
| Visa | $0-$130 | $0-$130 | Umrah visa often free; tourist e-Visa ~$128 |
| Accommodation (per night) | $40-$80 | $100-$250 | Distance from Haram is the main price driver |
| Transport (local) | $30-$50 total | $100-$200 total | Taxi, bus, or Haramain train |
| Food (per day) | $15-$25 | $30-$60 | Many budget restaurants near the Haram |
| Miscellaneous | $50-$100 | $100-$200 | SIM card, Zamzam containers, gifts |
Money-saving tips: Book 4-6 months in advance for the best hotel rates and flight prices. Travel during off-peak months (January, March-April post-Ramadan, or October). Choose hotels 10-15 minutes’ walk from the Haram instead of premium “Haram-view” properties, which command a significant premium. The Haramain High-Speed Railway between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah costs approximately SAR 150-300 ($40-$80) and takes under 45 minutes, making it far more affordable than private transfers.
Where Should You Stay in Makkah?
Accommodation is typically the largest single expense during Umrah, and proximity to Masjid al-Haram is the primary factor driving prices. Here are the main zones and their characteristics.
Premium Hotels (Within 200 metres of the Haram)
The Clock Tower complex (Abraj Al-Bait) contains several five-star hotels with direct or near-direct access to the Haram courtyard:
Mid-Range Hotels (200 metres-1 km)
The Ajyad and Jabal Omar districts offer good-quality hotels within a 5-15 minute walk of the Haram:
Budget Hotels (1-3 km)
Hotels in the Misfalah and Ibrahim Al Khalil Road areas offer the best value, typically $40-$80 per night. Free shuttle buses to the Haram are commonly provided by hotels in this zone. Many pilgrims find that the 15-20 minute walk is manageable and offers useful exercise between prayer times.
Booking tip: Book 2-6 months before your travel date for the best rates and availability. During Ramadan and school holidays, hotels near the Haram sell out months in advance. Platforms such as HalalBooking, Booking.com, and the Nusuk platform itself offer Umrah-specific hotel searches.
Can Women Perform Umrah Without a Male Guardian?
Yes. Since 2022, women aged 18 and above from all nationalities can apply for an Umrah visa and travel to perform Umrah without a mahram (male guardian). This reform was announced by Dr Tawfiq al-Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, as part of the Kingdom’s broader modernisation under Vision 2030, according to Soul of Saudi.
Key Points for Women Travelling for Umrah
Important note: This is a government regulation for visa and travel purposes. Islamic scholars hold varying opinions on the religious permissibility of a woman performing Umrah without a mahram. Pilgrims should consult their own scholars for religious guidance.
What Health Requirements Apply for Umrah?
Saudi Arabia enforces specific health requirements for all Umrah pilgrims. According to the Saudi Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), the following apply for 2026:
Mandatory Vaccinations
| Vaccination | Who Must Have It | Timing | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meningitis (quadrivalent ACWY) | All travellers aged 1 year and above | At least 10 days before arrival | 3-5 years (depending on vaccine type) |
| Polio | Travellers from countries reporting poliovirus cases | At least 4 weeks before arrival | 1 year |
| Yellow Fever | Travellers aged 9+ months from yellow-fever-risk countries | At least 10 days before arrival | Lifetime (single dose) |
Recommended (Not Mandatory) Vaccinations
Health Precautions During Umrah
What Should You Pack for Umrah?
Packing smartly can significantly improve your Umrah experience. Based on guidance from established Umrah travel operators, here is a comprehensive checklist.
Essential Documents
Ihram and Clothing
Toiletries (Fragrance-Free)
Health and Comfort
How Is Saudi Arabia Expanding Umrah Capacity Under Vision 2030?
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme includes ambitious targets for the pilgrimage sector. The Pilgrim Experience Program (PEP), one of the 13 Vision Realisation Programmes, is specifically dedicated to enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience.
Key Targets and Achievements
For more on Saudi Arabia’s national transformation programme, see our Saudi Arabia Travel Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Umrah
How long does Umrah take to complete?
The rituals themselves (Tawaf, Sa’i, and hair cutting) typically take 3-6 hours, depending on crowd levels. However, most pilgrims travel for 7-14 days to also visit Madinah, pray at the Prophet’s Mosque, and spend additional time in worship at Masjid al-Haram.
Can I perform Umrah on a Saudi tourist visa?
Yes. Since 2022, Saudi Arabia has permitted pilgrims to perform Umrah on tourist e-Visas, transit visas, and other valid visa types, not just dedicated Umrah visas. The tourist e-Visa is valid for one year with multiple entries. However, Umrah cannot be performed during the days of Hajj, and Hajj itself requires a separate Hajj visa.
Is Umrah mandatory in Islam?
Umrah is classified as Sunnah Mu’akkadah (a strongly emphasised recommended act) by the majority of Islamic scholars, including the Hanafi and Maliki schools of jurisprudence. The Shafi’i and Hanbali schools consider Umrah obligatory (wajib) once in a lifetime for those who are able. All schools agree it is highly meritorious.
Can I perform Umrah more than once?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of times you can perform Umrah. Many pilgrims perform multiple Umrahs during a single trip. To perform a second Umrah, you must exit the Haram boundary to re-enter Ihram. The most convenient location for this is Masjid Aisha (Taneem), approximately 7.5 km from Masjid al-Haram.
What is the best time to perform Umrah during Ramadan?
The first 20 days of Ramadan offer a balance between spiritual reward and manageable crowd levels. The last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly the odd nights when Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power) is sought, attract the largest crowds, with up to 2-3 million worshippers present. Book hotels 4-6 months in advance for Ramadan Umrah.
Do I need a travel agent or can I arrange Umrah independently?
Both options are viable. Citizens of countries eligible for the Saudi tourist e-Visa (63+ countries) can arrange Umrah entirely independently by obtaining the e-Visa online, booking hotels and flights directly, and using the Nusuk app for permits. Pilgrims from countries that require a dedicated Umrah visa typically need to book through an authorised Umrah travel agent in their country.
Is wheelchair access available at Masjid al-Haram?
Yes. The Grand Mosque provides free wheelchairs for pilgrims. A dedicated Tawaf level is equipped with ramps and sufficient space for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Electric carts are available for elderly and disabled pilgrims during Tawaf. The Sa’i corridor between Safa and Marwah has smooth surfaces and adequate space for wheelchair users. If you require someone to push your wheelchair, attendants are available for a fee.
What items are prohibited in Masjid al-Haram?
According to Saudi authorities, prohibited items include weapons, smoking materials, food and drink (except Zamzam water provided inside), selfie sticks, professional cameras, and excessive luggage. Mobile phones are permitted. Begging and unauthorised vending are also prohibited within the mosque complex.
Can I visit Madinah during my Umrah trip?
Yes, and it is highly recommended. While visiting Madinah and the Prophet’s Mosque is not part of the Umrah rituals, most pilgrims include Madinah in their itinerary. You can visit Madinah before or after performing Umrah in Makkah. The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah and Madinah via Jeddah in under 2.5 hours. Use the Nusuk app to book a Rawdah permit for visiting the Rawdah ash-Sharifah inside the Prophet’s Mosque.
What currency should I bring?
The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Makkah and Madinah. ATMs are readily available. It is advisable to carry some cash in Saudi Riyals for small purchases, taxis, and tips. Currency exchange is available at Jeddah airport and in the cities.