Zamzam water: drinking and taking it home

Where to drink Zamzam, how the official sealed containers work and what to check with your airline.

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.

Drinking Zamzam in the mosque

Zamzam coolers and dispensers are placed throughout Masjid al Haram and its courtyards, with a dedicated drinking area in the basement. The well shaft itself is not open to the public.

Buying Zamzam to take home

Zamzam for travel is sold at official airport counters in sealed, factory packed containers. You cannot fill your own bottle at the airport. Wego (May 2026) reports one sealed 5 litre container per departing pilgrim with a valid Hajj or Umrah visa, issued in the pilgrim's own name, from Jeddah or Madinah. Buy only at the official counter, not from shops in Makkah or Madinah.

Price

The King Abdulaziz International Airport page lists SAR 12 per passenger, tied to Terminal 1. Wego reports SAR 12.50 per 5 litre bottle at the Madinah outlet, which it places outside the Hajj terminal. Prices can change, so confirm at the counter.

How to carry it

Keep the container sealed and keep your receipt, because some airlines ask for proof of purchase. Pad it well and check your airline's policy before you travel. The sources differ on handling: the airport page says most airlines allow up to 5 litres in checked baggage, while Wego says the sealed bottle travels as a separate piece handed in at check in rather than inside your suitcase. Follow what your airline and the airport counter tell you.

Airlines differ

Wego's table reports that some airlines carry the bottle free as an extra piece and others count it in your baggage allowance, and it marks some as unclear. Confirm with your airline at check in.

Hand luggage and security

Do not fill your own bottles for the cabin because of liquid limits at security. The airport page says you may carry one sealed 500 ml bottle wrapped at an approved airport facility through security.

Connections and customs

If you change planes on separate tickets you may need to collect and recheck the bottle. Declare Zamzam where a customs form is required. Carrying many bottles for resale is reported to risk confiscation.

Frequently asked

Where can I drink Zamzam at Masjid al Haram?

At coolers throughout the mosque and courtyards and in the basement drinking area.

Can I fill my own bottle at the airport?

No, only official factory sealed containers are sold.

How much Zamzam can I take home?

One sealed 5 litre container per departing pilgrim is reported, but check your airline.

Sources

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