Hajj & Umrah Guide

Hajj and Umrah are Islamic pilgrimages to Makkah. This guide gives a short overview and points to official sources. It is not religious advice: for rulings, please consult qualified scholars.

Hajj

Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Makkah and is one of the five pillars of Islam. It takes place in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, so its dates move through the Gregorian calendar from year to year.

Umrah

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at other times of the year, outside the Hajj season.

Permits and visas

Saudi Arabia runs the official Nusuk platform for Hajj and Umrah. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has said that permits for Umrah, and for visiting and praying at Al Rawda Al Sharifa in Madinah, must be obtained in advance through the Nusuk or Tawakkalna apps. Rules change, so always check the official platforms before you plan.

Who may enter

Entry to Makkah, and to the Prophet’s Mosque and its courtyard in Madinah, is reserved for Muslims. Check current rules with official Saudi channels.

Accommodation and travel guidance

Arrange travel and accommodation only through licensed operators and official channels. Check that your operator is approved in your country for Hajj or Umrah, and be careful about paying large sums to sellers you cannot verify. This site does not list hotels or prices.

Ziyarat: historical Islamic sites

Ziyarat means visiting historical and religious sites. Around Makkah these include Jabal al-Nour (Cave of Hira) and Mount Arafat. In Madinah they include Quba Mosque and Mount Uhud.

Official sources

Last checked: November 2026.