Airports Serving Hajj & Umrah Pilgrims
Most pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia through one of two main airports: King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah or Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. Your choice depends on whether you plan to start your journey in Makkah or Madinah.
King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA), Jeddah
Jeddah’s airport is the primary gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. It has four passenger terminals, and which one you use depends on your airline rather than your visa:
- Hajj and Umrah Terminal (the Hajj Terminal): The famous open-air terminal under its tent-shaped roofs. In the Hajj season it handles most Hajj flights, with its own immigration, customs and baggage halls for pilgrims, so if you are travelling on a Hajj visa you will very likely arrive here. Outside the season, several airlines also fly Umrah and scheduled flights from it.
- Terminal 1: The large modern terminal opened in 2019, used by Saudia, flynas, flyadeal and many international airlines. It is well-signposted in Arabic and English and has its own Haramain train station.
- North Terminal: Used by a number of foreign airlines.
- Terminal 4: The rebuilt former South Terminal, which began opening in phases in late September 2026.
Airlines are still being moved between terminals, so check your terminal with your airline shortly before you fly.
Tip: The Hajj Terminal can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of people. Stay with your group and keep your documents in a secure, easily accessible pouch around your neck or in a front pocket.
Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport, Madinah
Madinah’s airport is smaller and generally less crowded than Jeddah. Many pilgrims who plan to visit Madinah first choose to fly here. The airport is about 20 km by road from the Prophet’s Mosque, usually around 25 minutes by car. Taxis and pre-arranged hotel transfers are readily available.
The Arrival Process
- Disembark and follow signs to immigration. Signage is in Arabic and English. During Hajj season, volunteers in coloured vests help direct pilgrims.
- Immigration: Have your passport, visa (printed or electronic), and vaccination certificate ready. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are taken at the counter. Queues during Hajj season can take 1-3 hours, so be patient.
- Baggage collection: Collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Label your bags distinctively - many pilgrims carry identical black suitcases.
- Customs: Saudi customs is generally straightforward. Prohibited items include alcohol, pork products, and certain medications without a prescription. If in doubt, declare it.
- Exit and transfer: Your tour operator should have representatives waiting outside. If travelling independently, taxis, Uber, and Careem are all available.
Important: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry. Carry a printed copy of your visa, hotel booking and return ticket - immigration officers may ask to see them.
Luggage Tips
- Use a brightly coloured luggage strap or tag so you can easily identify your bag among thousands of similar ones.
- Pack essentials (medications, ihram, one change of clothes, phone charger) in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed.
- Keep luggage weight under the airline limit - typically 23 kg for economy. Remember you will likely bring items back (Zamzam water, gifts), so leave some room.
- Zamzam water is often provided as a separate allowance by airlines operating Hajj and Umrah flights - check with your airline.
- A small daypack or drawstring bag is essential for carrying items during Tawaf and Sa’i. Large bags are not allowed inside the Haram.