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Book Hajj Flights 2026

Search and book Hajj 2026 flights

Preparing for the pilgrimage of Hajj in 2026? We help make the travel side of your journey as smooth as possible.

Compare flights from over 600 global airlines and find the best routes to Saudi Arabia, whether you're travelling solo or with a group.

Medina, Saudi Arabia

When is Hajj 2026?

Hajj in 2026 is expected to take place between Sunday 31 May and Friday 5 June, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. The final dates depend on the moon sighting and are officially confirmed by Saudi authorities closer to the time.

Things to consider for the Hajj period ✨

  • Arrival window: Aim to arrive in Saudi Arabia at least 2-3 days before Hajj begins. This gives you time to rest, settle and prepare.
  • Return travel: Most pilgrims return within 7-10 days after completing Hajj, though some extend their stay to visit Medina.
  • Official confirmation: Watch for announcements from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah regarding the exact dates and entry requirements.

Booking early is essential. Flights for Hajj tend to sell out quickly and prices rise closer to departure. We recommend:

  • Booking flights 6 to 9 months in advance
  • Checking visa availability and deadlines in your home country
  • Confirming your Hajj operator's guidelines before purchasing flights
A plane at an airport gate at dusk

Best airports to fly to for Hajj

When planning your journey, you'll likely fly into one of two main airports in Saudi Arabia:

Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport)

This is the closest major airport to Mecca and is the most popular option for Hajj travellers. It has a dedicated Hajj terminal to process pilgrims and offers a range of direct and connecting flights from around the world.

Medina (Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport)

Ideal if you wish to begin your pilgrimage by visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina before travelling to Mecca. Many Hajj packages include this route, and it can be less crowded than Jeddah.

Both airports are well-connected to Mecca by road and coach services arranged by your Hajj provider. We recommend comparing both options - some travellers find better availability or prices flying into one city and out from the other.

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How to book flights for Hajj

Booking your Hajj flights online is straightforward, but a little planning goes a long way in securing the right itinerary:

  1. Search and compare flights. Use our search tool to enter your departure city and either Jeddah or Medina as your arrival point.
  2. Choose flexible dates. If possible, adjust your travel dates to find better prices or shorter routes. Flying a few days before or after peak periods can save money.
  3. Filter by preferences. Sort flights by number of stops, duration, baggage allowance, airline and more. You can also choose flights based on departure time or overnight options.
  4. Review airline options. Check details for each flight, including cancellation terms and what’s included in the fare. Some airlines offer extra support for pilgrims.
  5. Secure your booking. Once you’ve found the flight that works best for you, complete the secure checkout. You’ll receive instant confirmation by email from us.

If you’re travelling with a Hajj group or tour provider, confirm if they include flights. You can usually still book independently as long as your dates align.

Saudi 747 plane in the sky

Airlines flying to Hajj

Many major airlines operate flights to Saudi Arabia during the Hajj period. These flights often depart from cities with large Muslim populations and may include additional services for pilgrims.

Most popular airlines for Hajj flights ✈️

  • Saudia - The national airline of Saudi Arabia, often offering the most direct routes and Hajj-specific services.
  • Qatar Airways - Offers flexible connections via Doha, with excellent onboard service.
  • Turkish Airlines - Popular with travellers from Europe, North America and Asia.
  • EgyptAir - Frequently used by pilgrims from Africa and the Middle East.
  • Emirates - Known for reliable service and multiple departure points worldwide.
  • Etihad Airways - Offers good regional access, especially from Southeast Asia.

You’ll also find options with airlines such as Royal Jordanian, Oman Air, Kuwait Airways and Malaysia Airlines depending on your location. Availability may vary based on your departure city and visa requirements.

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Buy Shariah-compliant Hajj flights with Tamara

Tamara offers a flexible and Shariah-compliant way to pay for your flights.

  • Book through Alternative Airlines and choose Tamara at checkout
  • Split the cost into 2, 3 or 4 manageable instalments
  • No interest or hidden fees if payments are made on time
  • Stay in line with Islamic finance principles

Tamara gives you the freedom to plan ahead, secure your seat early and manage your travel budget, all while staying in line with Islamic finance principles. This option is subject to eligibility and is currently available in select regions.

You can also pay in full using traditional methods such as debit card or bank transfer.

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Why buy Hajj flights with Alternative Airlines?

Choosing Alternative Airlines means booking with confidence and flexibility:

  • Compare flights from over 600 airlines in one place
  • Book routes to both Jeddah and Medina with ease
  • Filter flights by baggage, stopovers, timings and more
  • Access localised payment options, including Shariah-compliant ones like Tamara
  • Choose from a variety of currencies and languages
  • Get instant booking confirmation and friendly customer support

We’re here to support your journey to Hajj, from the moment you search to the day you fly.

Book your Hajj 2026 flight today

Start your journey by exploring flights to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026.
Early booking gives you more choice, better fares and peace of mind. We're here to help every step of the way.

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A visa and a passport

Hajj visa information

To travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, you must apply for a dedicated Hajj visa, which is typically free of charge. Applications open a few months before Hajj and can be submitted online or in person through your nearest Saudi embassy or consulate. This visa is different from the general tourist or Umrah visa.

Basic visa requirements include:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months after travel
  • Proof of Mahram for female travellers (women must travel with a male guardian)
  • A recent passport-sized photo (35mm x 45mm)
  • Proof of vaccinations (including meningitis ACYW135, polio for children and others as required)
  • A confirmed roundtrip flight ticket
  • Travel itinerary and hotel booking confirmation

Upon arrival, pilgrims receive a Saudi-issued ID card and wristband for Hajj. A valid Hajj permit is also required.

Requirements can change, so we advise checking with your local Saudi embassy or Hajj organiser well ahead of time. For more on travel documents, visit our Travel Documents Guide or check government resources in your country.

Quran

Hajj packing list

Packing for Hajj is all about practicality and comfort.

  • You’ll want to bring Islamic essentials such as a pocket Qur’an, a small prayer mat, and a guide or booklet with duas.
  • For clothing, pack an unstitched ihram (for men), loose-fitting clothes, flip-flops, a travel pouch and something to protect you from the sun like sunglasses or an umbrella.
  • Toiletries should be fragrance-free, including soap, toothpaste and wipes.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen and a small first-aid kit. If you take regular medication, bring enough for your entire trip.
  • A mini electric fan, a string bag and a Saudi SIM card can also be handy.

Remember, you don’t need to overpack! Many items are available to buy locally in Mecca or Medina if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly directly to Mecca?

No. Mecca does not have an airport. The nearest major airports are in Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International) and Medina (Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport). From there, continue by coach or private transfer to Mecca.

Do I need to book through a Hajj package provider?

Yes, most travellers book through an authorised Hajj agent in their country who arranges visas, accommodation and local transport. However, flights can be booked independently through Alternative Airlines, with a choice of 600+ global airlines.

Is it better to arrive in Medina or Jeddah?

This depends on your travel plan. Some prefer to start in Medina to visit the Prophet’s Mosque before heading to Mecca. Others arrive directly into Jeddah for quicker access to Hajj services.

When should I book my flight?

Ideally, you should book 6 to 9 months ahead of Hajj. Flights often open for booking 11 months in advance.