Arriving for Umrah at Jeddah and Madinah airports

Step by step from the aircraft to your hotel, using the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah guide.

Information only. Rules, permits and timings change, so confirm with official sources and your scholar before you travel. We do not sell, book or guarantee anything.

On the plane

If you arrive first in Jeddah, the Ministry says to make your intention for ihram on the plane when it passes the miqat, and not wait until after landing. Prepare your ihram clothing before you board.

In the arrival hall

Follow customs rules and avoid prohibited items. Stay calm at baggage claim and ask staff in the halls for help. For lost luggage go to the Lost and Found office in the arrival hall with the bag description, flight number and contact details. SIM cards and internet packages are sold in the arrival hall, and shops accept cards including Mada and Apple Pay as well as cash.

From Jeddah airport to Makkah

The ministry guide lists the Haramain high speed train with a station in Terminal 1, the Makkah bus network, taxis, ride hailing apps such as Uber and Careem and approved taxi apps, and hotel shuttles if your hotel offers them. Wego notes the Makkah train station is outside the Grand Mosque complex, so you will need a taxi or hotel shuttle for the last leg. Check timetable and fares on the official Haramain portal. Group travellers should follow their Umrah company's transport plan.

To Madinah

Options in the guide are the Haramain train, direct flights to Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport, and buses or cars by land.

Transit visa

The guide says passengers with a Saudia stopover in Jeddah or Madinah may qualify for a transit visa of up to 96 hours if they hold a confirmed final booking.

Leaving

Confirm your flight and hotel check out times and arrive at the airport 4 hours before departure, as the guide advises. Keep power banks in cabin bags. See our Zamzam page for taking Zamzam home.

Frequently asked

Where do I make ihram if I land in Jeddah?

On the plane when the miqat is announced, according to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Can I buy a SIM at the airport?

Yes, SIM cards and internet packages are sold in the arrival hall.

How do I get from Jeddah airport to Makkah?

By Haramain train from Terminal 1, bus, taxi, ride hailing app or hotel shuttle.

Sources

Reviewed by the Makkah Madina Guide editorial team on 20 October 2026.