Umrah FAQs for Pilgrims from the USA (2026–2027)

Planning Umrah from the United States is easier than ever, but the rules keep changing. There are online eVisas, a new multiple-entry Umrah visa, Nusuk permits for Umrah and the Rawdah, and a fixed season calendar with closing dates before Hajj. We are an IATAN- and ARC-certified US agency offering Economy (3-star), Silver (4-star) and Gold (5-star) Umrah packages of 5, 7 and 10 nights from 12 US cities. Below we answer the questions pilgrims ask us most, from "What is Umrah?" to visas, Ihram on US flights, women's and family questions, health and Zamzam. Dates marked "expected" are estimates as of October 2026. Please confirm details with us before you book.

About Umrah

What is Umrah?

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Makkah with specific rituals that can be performed at most times of the year (see the season dates below). Scholars differ on its ruling. The Hanafi and Maliki schools consider it a strongly recommended Sunnah, while the Shafi'i and Hanbali schools consider it obligatory once in a lifetime for those who are able. Either way, it is not the same as Hajj, which is a pillar of Islam performed only in Dhul-Hijjah.

Who can perform Umrah?

Any sane Muslim (adult or child, male or female) who is physically and financially able and who meets current Saudi visa, permit and health regulations. Pilgrims under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian.

Can non-Muslims enter Makkah or perform Umrah?

No. Only Muslims are allowed to enter Makkah and perform Umrah.

What are the main rites of Umrah?

Ihram: enter the sacred state, with special clothing for men and the intention, before the Miqat
Tawaf: walk around the Kaaba 7 times
Sa'i: walk between Safa and Marwah 7 times
Halq or Taqsir (Tahallul): shave or trim the hair, which completes the Umrah

How long does Umrah take?

The rituals themselves can be completed in a few hours. Most pilgrims stay several days for extra worship and visits. Our packages run 5, 7 or 10 nights, and many include Madinah.

Is there a minimum age for Umrah? Does a child's Umrah count?

There's no minimum age for Umrah, and children can perform it with their parents. A child's Umrah is valid and rewarded. For those who hold that Umrah is obligatory once in a lifetime, it should be performed again after the child reaches puberty to fulfill that obligation. Older children and adults are encouraged to visit the House of Allah again and again. On the practical side, children under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian, and children need their own Nusuk Umrah permit from about age 5 (see the Children question below).

Can I perform multiple Umrahs in one trip?

Yes, but for each additional Umrah you must leave the Haram boundary (for example, to Masjid Aisha at Tan'eem) and re-enter Ihram. You'll also need a Nusuk Umrah permit for each one. Some scholars prefer increasing Tawaf and other worship over repeating Umrah many times, so ask your scholar.

Can I perform Umrah for someone else?

Yes, after you have performed your own Umrah. You may perform it on behalf of someone who has died or who is physically unable, for example because of a terminal illness.

Can I visit Madinah during my Umrah trip?

Yes. Visiting the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Madinah is highly recommended, though it isn't compulsory or part of the Umrah ritual itself. A visit to the Rawdah must be booked through the Nusuk app.

Umrah Season & Dates (2026–2027)

When can I perform Umrah?

At most times of the year, but not during the Hajj-season closure. This isn't only the Hajj days (8th–13th Dhul-Hijjah). For international Umrah pilgrims, the closure runs from about 1 Dhul-Qa'dah to mid-Dhul-Hijjah. During that period only Hajj visa holders may enter or stay in Makkah, and Umrah permits are suspended for everyone. For the current season, all Umrah pilgrims must leave Saudi Arabia by April 7, 2027. The closure is expected to last until about May 21–22, 2027, after which the 1449 Umrah season should open. Those dates are estimates and haven't been announced yet.

What are the official Umrah season dates for 1448 AH (2026–2027)?

According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah:

May 31, 2026: Umrah visa issuance and pilgrim arrivals began
June 1, 2026: entry to Makkah and Nusuk Umrah permits began
March 9, 2027: last day for Umrah visas to be issued
March 23, 2027: last day for Umrah pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia
April 7, 2027: last day for Umrah pilgrims to leave Saudi Arabia

Overstaying past the deadline is a violation. Book early if you're traveling in February or March 2027.

When is Ramadan 2027, and can I do Umrah then?

Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around February 8, 2027 and end around March 8–9, 2027, depending on the moon sighting. Umrah is permitted throughout Ramadan, and it is the busiest and most expensive time of year, so book early. Keep in mind that the last day for Umrah visas to be issued is March 9, 2027 and the last entry date is March 23, 2027.

Visa, Nusuk & Booking

Do US citizens need a special Umrah visa?

No. US citizens can perform Umrah on the Saudi tourist eVisa (apply at visa.visitsaudi.com) or a visa on arrival at major Saudi airports, outside the Hajj season. You can also use a dedicated Umrah visa arranged with a Nusuk package through a licensed provider. Whichever visa you use, you also need a Nusuk Umrah permit. Tourist and Umrah visas cannot be used for Hajj.

How long is the tourist eVisa valid, and how much does it cost?

The tourist eVisa is generally valid for one year with multiple entries, with stays of up to 90 days. Confirm the exact stay rule on visa.visitsaudi.com. The fee was reported at roughly SAR 480–535 (about US$128–143) in 2026, including mandatory health insurance. Fees change often, so check the official site for today's price.

I have a US green card but not a US passport. Can I get the eVisa?

Usually yes. The Saudi eVisa is open to US permanent residents (and their first-degree relatives) whose passports are valid for 6+ months. Holders of a valid, used US visa may also qualify. However, nationals of some countries have faced extra restrictions since 2025 (for example, single-entry-only visas), so check your eligibility on visa.visitsaudi.com first. Alternatively, we can arrange an Umrah visa with one of our packages.

How soon must I travel after my Umrah visa is issued?

Within 30 days. Since November 2025, an unused Umrah visa is cancelled automatically if you don't enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of issue. Once you enter, you can stay up to 90 days, but no later than the season's final departure date (April 7, 2027). (Older information saying the Umrah visa is "valid for 15 days" is out of date.)

What is the new multiple-entry Umrah visa?

Announced in July 2026, it is valid for one year and lets you return several times, up to 90 days in total across all visits. You need a Nusuk-approved package and a Nusuk Umrah permit for each trip, and it can't be used during the Hajj season. Fees and full details had not been published as of October 2026, so ask us whether it suits your plans.

What is the hotel-booking rule for Umrah visas ("no booking, no visa")?

Umrah visas are now generally linked to confirmed hotel (and transport) bookings made through the Nusuk system, so proof of booking is part of the application. This is handled for you when you book one of our Umrah packages. If you travel on a tourist eVisa, you don't need a Nusuk hotel booking to get the visa, but you still need a Nusuk Umrah permit.

Can I do Umrah independently, or do I need a group or package?

Both are possible. You can arrange Umrah yourself through official channels: a tourist eVisa, your own flights and hotels, and a Nusuk Umrah permit through the Nusuk app. Make sure you follow the visa, health and accommodation rules. Or you can book a package or group with an agency like ours, which bundles flights, hotels, transfers, visa support and guidance. Many first-timers and families prefer a package for peace of mind.

Do I need the Nusuk app even if I already have a visa?

Yes. The visa gets you into Saudi Arabia, and the Nusuk permit lets you perform Umrah. Every pilgrim needs a Nusuk Umrah permit (a date and time slot) before entering the Grand Mosque for Umrah, whatever their visa type. Book it in the Nusuk app or at nusuk.sa. Children under about 5 are usually added to a parent's profile, but please check in the app.

How do I visit the Rawdah in Madinah?

Visits to the Rawdah (Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah) are booked in the Nusuk app, and a barcode is checked at the gate. Visits are limited to about 10 minutes and, under the rules in recent seasons, normally once a year. If you miss a booking without cancelling, you may be blocked from booking again for a year. We'll help you book, but permits are issued by Saudi authorities and cannot be guaranteed.

Can I travel through Saudi Arabia on a stopover visa and do Umrah?

Possibly. Saudi Arabia offers a transit (stopover) visa of up to 96 hours with some airlines, such as Saudia and flynas, and US Embassy guidance says it can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season (with a Nusuk permit). It's a tight schedule, so ask us whether it suits you.

Ihram & Umrah Rituals

What is Ihram and when do I enter it?

Ihram is a state of ritual purity and intention. Men wear two unstitched white sheets. Women wear modest clothing, with no face covering or gloves. You must enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat boundary. On flights this is usually announced by the crew or your group leader. See the next question for flights from the USA.

What are the Miqat points, and where do I enter Ihram when flying from the USA?

The Miqat points are boundaries outside Makkah. You must be in Ihram before passing them. The five Mawaqit are:

Dhul-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali): for those coming from the direction of Madinah
Yalamlam: for those coming from the direction of Yemen, and for many flights from South Asia (India, Pakistan)
Al-Juhfah (near Rabigh): for those coming from the direction of Egypt, North Africa, Europe and the Americas
Qarn al-Manazil: for those coming from the direction of Najd
Dhat Irq: for those coming from the direction of Iraq

Flying from the USA to Jeddah: your plane crosses the Miqat before you land. Put on your Ihram at home, at the airport or during your layover, and make your intention before the Miqat. Most scholars say you shouldn't wait until you land in Jeddah. Flying to Madinah first: no Ihram is needed on the flight. You'll enter Ihram at Dhul-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali) on the way to Makkah. If you're already in Makkah and want another Umrah, go outside the Haram boundary, usually to Masjid Aisha (Tan'eem), to enter Ihram.

What are the recommended cleanliness and hygiene practices (Sunnah) before Ihram?

It is recommended, but not obligatory, to take a full bath (ghusl) and to trim your nails and mustache and remove underarm and pubic hair. Men may apply scent to the body (not the Ihram garments) before making the intention. Avoid applying any scent once you're in Ihram.

What are the prohibitions in Ihram?

Cutting hair or nails
Using perfume or scented products
Wearing sewn or tailored clothing shaped to the body (men)
Covering the head (men), or wearing a face veil or gloves (women)
Engaging in marriage contracts or intimate relations
Killing or hunting animals, and cutting plants in the Haram
Arguing, fighting and bad language

If you break a rule by mistake, ask a scholar. A penalty (charity or a sacrifice) may apply.

What are the rules for cutting hair after Umrah?

First, we pray that Allah makes your trip a blessed one and accepts your prayers and worship. Ameen.

Men have two options: shave the head (Halq) or trim the hair (Taqsir/Qasr). The Prophet ﷺ made du'a for those who shave and those who trim (reported in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim), so both are valid, and shaving carries extra virtue for men.

A practical tip: if you perform several Umrahs, trim each time and shave after the last one. Don't just symbolically snip a few hairs. Many scholars advise trimming evenly from all over the head, ideally at a barber. Women never shave. They trim about a fingertip's length from the ends of their hair.

Can I touch or kiss the Black Stone during Tawaf?

It is Sunnah, not mandatory. If it's crowded, simply point your right hand toward it from the starting line and say "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar." Never push or hurt others to reach it.

Should I shorten (Qasr) my prayers in Makkah and Madinah?

In the Hanafi school, if you intend to stay in one city for 15 days or more, you are considered a resident and pray full prayers. If you're staying less than 15 days, you shorten (Qasr) the four-unit prayers. Other schools generally use a shorter period (about four days). When you pray behind the imam in the Haram, you pray the full prayer with the congregation. Ask your scholar about your situation.

Is Tawaf al-Ziyarah part of Umrah?

No. Tawaf al-Ziyarah (Tawaf al-Ifadah) is a Hajj rite, and it can't be performed before the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah (it may be delayed after the 10th if there is extreme crowding). Umrah has its own Tawaf, performed when you arrive in Makkah in Ihram. You may also perform voluntary (nafl) Tawaf as often as you like.

What are common mistakes in Umrah?

Rushing the rituals
Losing humility and focus
Pushing or crowding unnecessarily
Not learning the necessary du'as and steps beforehand
Crossing the Miqat on the plane without being in Ihram
Entering the mosque for Umrah without a valid Nusuk permit

Should I learn and recite specific du'as?

Yes. Prepare the main du'as beforehand, especially for Tawaf and Sa'i, along with general dhikr (remembrance). You may make du'a in your own language too.

Do I need to attend an Umrah seminar or briefing first?

It isn't required, but it is strongly advised, especially for first-timers. Many mosques and agencies offer live and online classes, and we provide a pre-departure briefing for our travelers.

Women Pilgrims

Can women perform Umrah alone or without a mahram?

Yes. Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah abolished the mahram requirement for women aged 18 and over. The old "women under 45 need a mahram" rule no longer applies. Women and girls under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian. Many women still prefer to travel with family or a group, and you can ask your scholar about the religious ruling that applies to you. We offer group departures that many women travelers choose.

What should women wear for Umrah?

Modest dress covering the entire body except the face and hands, with a hijab (headscarf). In Ihram, do not wear a face veil (niqab) or gloves.

Can a woman who is menstruating perform Umrah?

She may enter Ihram, travel and do everything except Tawaf (and the Sa'i that follows it). She should wait until she is pure, if possible. If her flight schedule doesn't allow that, she should seek religious guidance before leaving.

Are there dedicated facilities for women?

Yes. There are separate women's prayer areas, washrooms and entrances, and female staff and volunteers in both Haram mosques.

Can pregnant or nursing women perform Umrah?

Many do, but consult your doctor first and tell your group about your health needs. Airlines have their own rules for late pregnancy, so check before you book. Bring what you need, such as medication, nursing supplies and your medical documents.

Elderly, Disabled, Children & Special Needs

Is there support for elderly or disabled pilgrims?

Yes. Wheelchair access, ramps, priority lines and helpers are available in both Haram mosques and the main ritual areas. Many packages can include accessible transport and closer hotels, so book support in advance. Just tell us what you need.

Can I use a wheelchair for all the rituals?

Yes! There are special lanes for wheelchair Tawaf and Sa'i. You can hire a helper, or your family or group can assist you.

What should special-needs pilgrims bring?

Essential medicines (in original packaging), a doctor's letter, ID, translated medical information, medical supplies and emergency contacts.

Are medical facilities available?

Yes. Hospitals, clinics and mobile first-aid teams are on hand. Your visa includes mandatory health insurance for emergency treatment, and emergency care at government facilities is generally provided to pilgrims. We still recommend separate travel insurance with medical evacuation cover.

Can children perform Umrah?

Yes. There's no minimum age for Umrah. Children under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian, and their application is linked to that adult's. Nusuk Umrah permits are reportedly issued from age 5, and children under 5 are added to a parent's profile, but please check in the Nusuk app. Make sure every child carries identification and an emergency contact card, watch out for crowds, and plan extra rest.

Vaccinations & Health (2026–2027)

What vaccinations are required for Umrah?

Meningococcal ACWY (mandatory): a conjugate vaccine within the last 5 years, or a polysaccharide vaccine within the last 3 years, given at least 10 days before arrival. Bring your certificate.
COVID-19: under the 1447H rules, required only for higher-risk groups (for example, people aged 65+, pregnant women, and people with chronic heart, lung or kidney disease or weakened immunity). It is no longer required for everyone.
Yellow fever / polio: required only if you're arriving from listed at-risk countries. They aren't required for travel from the USA.
Seasonal flu: highly recommended, along with routine vaccines, per the CDC.

Talk to your doctor or a travel clinic at least 2–3 weeks before you fly.

Will there be health or fever checks during Umrah?

Possibly. Health screening may take place on arrival and in some mosque areas. Always cooperate and disclose any symptoms.

Are pandemic protocols in place for Umrah pilgrims?

Protocols can change. As of October 2026, there is no general COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all Umrah pilgrims (only for higher-risk groups), and masks are recommended in crowds and enclosed spaces. Official apps like Nusuk are used for permits, navigation and updates. We'll share any new Ministry of Health rules before you travel.

What if someone gets sick during Umrah or tests positive for COVID-19 or another infection?

Follow Saudi health guidance (which may include isolating), inform your group, guide or hotel, and seek help through the clinics or authorities. In an emergency in Saudi Arabia, call 997 for an ambulance or 937 for the Ministry of Health helpline.

Can I bring my prescription medicines?

Yes, in their original packaging with your prescription. Medicines containing narcotic or psychotropic substances need an SFDA personal clearance permit before travel, through cds.sfda.gov.sa. The maximum is a 30-day supply or the length of your stay, whichever is shorter.

Travel, Packing & Logistics

What do I need to bring?

Ihram garments (extra sets if you're staying long)
Lightweight, modest clothing
Unscented toiletries, sanitizer and wipes
Medicines (with prescriptions, and translations if needed)
A small bag or backpack for the rituals
A plastic bag for your shoes, a water bottle and snacks
An umbrella, sunglasses and sunscreen
Your passport, a printed visa, vaccination certificate, and the Nusuk app with your permit

What items are not allowed in the Haram or the Prophet's Mosque?

Avoid bringing large bags, sharp objects and excessive valuables. Carry only what you need (a small Qur'an or du'a book is fine), and follow security staff instructions at the entrances.

How much luggage can I bring, and what about Zamzam water?

Follow your airline's baggage policy. For Zamzam, Saudi rules allow one factory-sealed 5-liter container per pilgrim, bought from official outlets or airport counters. It can't be packed inside your suitcase. It is checked in separately. Some airlines carry it free and others count it in your allowance, so check with yours. When you land in the US, declare food items such as dates, and we recommend declaring Zamzam too.

Can I use my smartphone in the mosque?

Yes, but use it respectfully. Silence your ringtone and limit photos and videos, especially during prayers and rituals. Remember that Saudi law also applies to what you post on social media.

How can I get help if I'm lost or in trouble?

Approach security, mosque staff or your group leader. There are lost-and-found desks in both mosques. Keep your ID, hotel card and emergency contacts with you. US citizens can also contact the US Embassy in Riyadh or the Consulate General in Jeddah. Jeddah is the nearest US post to Makkah.

Are apps and online resources helpful?

Yes. Download the official Nusuk app for Umrah permits, Rawdah bookings, real-time rules, navigation and schedule updates. Also enroll in the US State Department's STEP program for safety alerts.

What does the US government say about travel to Saudi Arabia?

The US State Department publishes a travel advisory for Saudi Arabia that can change at short notice. Saudi Arabia has not suspended Umrah. Before you book and before you fly, read the current advisory at travel.state.gov, enroll in STEP, and choose flexible bookings and travel insurance.

Do I need to declare cash or valuables?

Yes, if you carry cash, jewelry or precious metals worth SAR 60,000 (about US$16,000) or more, or gifts or purchases worth SAR 3,000 or more. Use the ZATCA e-declaration at zatca.gov.sa. Pork, alcohol, narcotics and unapproved controlled medicines are prohibited.

Book Your Umrah with Confidence

Choose from our Economy (3-star), Silver (4-star) and Gold (5-star) Umrah packages, with 5, 7 or 10 nights from Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Newark, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington DC. See all Umrah packages. Remember that the last entry date for this season is March 23, 2027. Call 855-200-9095, WhatsApp +1 855-200-9095 or email info@hajjandumrahdeal.com, or use the enquiry form on this page.

This page is general guidance, not legal or medical advice. Saudi rules can change. Information is current as of October 2026.

Official Sources

Information reviewed October 2026. Saudi regulations change frequently — always confirm the latest requirements with our team or the official sources above before you travel.