There are three types of Hajj. Please visit the Types of Hajj Page for detailed information.
You can check your visa status through the Hajj Initiery section in your Nusuk account.
Based on the usual timeline, visas are typically not seen until the end of April, so there’s no need to worry yet.
No, Hajj visas have not yet been issued for pilgrims from the US or Canada
Visa statuses can update at different times, and account admins may receive updates earlier than others.
Tickets can be issued at the last minute, sometimes just 2–3 days before departure. So don’t worry about this.
International flights: Allow 2 bags.
Domestic flights (within the US): Allow 1 bag only.
You should plan to leave for your flight within a 4-hour window before departure.
The meningitis vaccine is mandatory and should be taken at least 15 days before departure, but you can still take it now if needed. Polio and yellow fever vaccines are not required for Hajj unless your airline or travel route specifically asks for them. If flying with Ethiopian Airlines, a polio vaccine is required.
Ask your doctor to write your prescriptions for at least two months and in written form, so you can show them to clinics in Saudi Arabia if you run out of medication.
We’ve created a complete list for you! You can view and buy all the essentials by clicking on the Shop section.
A sacrificial slaughter is carried out during the rites of Hajj. Hadi is due if you are performing Hajj Iqran or Tamatu’. If you are performing Hajj Ifrad, then no Hadi is required. Book your Hajj Qurbani Now
The train system during Hajj has strict limitations, such as only allowing one bag per passenger. This poses logistical challenges for travelers carrying multiple bags. Additionally, shipping additional luggage to Medina in time is not feasible.
The transportation system during Hajj has complex regulations. Cars and trains do not require permits, but buses carrying groups of seven or more people are subject to multiple inspections and permits from various authorities, including the transportation department, the Ministry of Hajj, and local offices. These regulations are part of a system in transition and are being reviewed to improve efficiency.
Transportation options during Hajj are heavily regulated, and the rules are in transition. While alternative methods like trains or cars might seem logical, the current system imposes strict requirements on buses and limits flexibility. The rules are being revised, but for now, buses remain the primary option due to logistical constraints and regulatory compliance.
The decision to use buses is primarily due to regulatory and logistical constraints. While other options, like cars or trains, may seem simpler, the current system requires permits and inspections for buses, making alternative options difficult to implement during Hajj. The system is being improved, but during this transitional phase, buses are the most practical solution.
You can try adding money to the wallet. If the system allows you to do so, go ahead. If it doesn’t, it means the option is not yet available.
Transportation from Medina to Makkah is by bus. Taking the train is not currently allowed as it requires a special permit, which is not available for this package.
No, for the short program, the transportation from Jeddah to Medina is by bus. The train is not an option due to logistical and regulatory limitations.
Yes, in the Haram in Mecca, wheelchairs and electric chairs are available for rent. You can go in and reserve one. These facilities are located on the second floor, and they are well-maintained and accessible.
No, wheelchairs or electric chairs are not available for rent during the stoning ritual. It is advisable to plan accordingly for this part of the pilgrimage.
Unfortunately, the packages offered have strict airline schedules. The package must be purchased as it is, and it originates and ends in the US. The Ministry of Hajj allows only one designated stop as part of the package.
Yes, you can return to perform Umrah after Hajj by purchasing a new ticket. A tourist visa can be issued for this purpose after Hajj. However, it must be arranged separately from your Hajj package.
Yes, if your profile correctly includes both travelers, we should be able to see both of you in the system. Please ensure your registration details are complete and accurate.
The digital wallet is a feature used for payment processing. At this time, users who are verified are experiencing issues activating the e-wallet, as the option appears grayed out. This is a temporary issue, and it may be resolved soon. When active, you may need to load money into the wallet to proceed with purchases, but further details will be clarified once the feature is fully functional.
If you can select the standard category but cannot proceed with the next steps, it may not necessarily mean you’re unverified. Currently, verified users are also experiencing delays and issues with the activation of the e-wallet. This appears to be a temporary technical issue and should be resolved soon.
You’re not missing anything. Once you’ve topped up your wallet, selected a package, and met all requirements, the confirmation is dependent on the Ministry of Hajj’s timeline. The ministry will announce when you can confirm and pay for your selected package. Until that announcement, the system will not allow final confirmation.
After selecting your preferred package and ensuring your wallet has sufficient funds, the process is as follows:
No, confirmation and payment will not happen immediately after selecting a package. The Ministry of Hajj controls the timeline, and you must wait for their announcement to finalize your booking and payment.
The packages are expected to be available for purchase starting February 10th, approximately 20 days from now, if the Ministry holds to their schedule. However, historically, these dates have not always been consistent, so delays may occur.
Starting tomorrow, Hajj Counsel will begin reviewing packages and posting information on their website. They will help narrow down the options, highlight the supported packages, and provide details such as hotels, maps, and pros and cons. A review session is planned around February 1st to help further refine the options and assist with package selection.
No, you will not receive immediate approval after selecting a package. When you select a package, you are simply marking it as your preferred option. However, it is not recommended to choose a package right away tomorrow, as the packages being released initially are partial, and many are not yet ready.
While your wallet is active, it is advised not to select a package immediately, as the initial release will only include partial options. Wait until more comprehensive package details are available to ensure you make an informed decision.
Yes, meningitis and COVID vaccines are required for Hajj travelers from the US. Last year, COVID was not a significant issue, but current requirements may vary. Keep an eye on updates and ensure you meet all vaccination requirements.
To prepare, familiarize yourself with the available programs, such as those offered by Raw Mina, Abdullah Jamil, and Dave. This will help you make informed decisions when packages are released.
If your account is approved, you can now create a new username and password. You may also consult with the Hajj Council for further assistance in managing your account.
All passports must have at least six months of validity at the time of entry into Saudi Arabia. If your passport meets this requirement, you can use it. However, if it does not, you will need to renew it before traveling.
Registration through the Nusuk platform is expected to open by the end of October.
The packages are expected to be released between February and March 2025.
All flight bookings must be made through the Nusuk platform.
No, airfares can only be booked through the Nusuk platform.
If your selected package is no longer available, you will need to choose an alternative option.
While it is possible to perform both, it can be challenging. It is recommended to complete Umrah first, followed by Hajj.
Various major flight gateways across North America are linked with the Hajj package offerings.
The $200 fee applies to each profile, with an additional $100 for each extra person.
We will begin creating emails and assisting you as soon as we receive your payment and documents. However, registration will officially start once the Nusuk platform opens for registration.
All packages are based on Quad occupancy.
We recommend using American citizenship for registration purposes.
Both locations have their advantages. Staying close to the Haram offers easy access to prayers and more frequent visits, especially during non-peak times. On the other hand, Aziziya provides a quieter environment, is typically more affordable, and is closer to Mina and Arafat, which can be convenient during the Hajj rituals.
May 28th – 1st Zul-Hijja
May 31st – 4th Zul-Hijja – last day to enter Jeddah
June 1st – 5th Zul-Hijja – Last day to enter Madinah
June 4th – 8th Zul-Hijja – Mena – Hajj starts
June 8 & 9 – 12 & 13 Zul-Hijja – Hajj is over
Below are the Land Hajj 2024 price ranges exclusive of 17.5% Tax, 2.5% Transaction fees, Airline and Qurbani.
Standard – 25,000 to 32,000 Riyals (5-6KM from Kaba)
Premium – 32,000 to 43,000 Riyals (2-3KM from Kaba)
Luxury – 43,000 to 55,000 Riyals (Next to Kaba)
Refund Process for Hajj Payments (Ministry Contact: 011 966 92 000 2814).
Current updates indicate that your username and password from Hajj 2024 will remain valid and can be used for future registrations.
Select packages from reputable companies with a track record of good service. Avoid overly cheap offers that may compromise on necessary services and support.
Yes, we offer assistance for $200 per person, which is fully refundable if you do not receive a visa. Our team will handle everything, including uploading documents and managing all the required steps.
No, travelling independently can lead to significant challenges, such as language barriers and unfamiliar regulations, resulting in missed flights and difficulties accessing services. It’s recommended you register through Nusuk and then select a guide.
There are two main types of accommodation:
Camps near Jamarat are limited and expensive. Farther camps involve longer walks but often provide a smoother experience with fewer logistical issues.
Flight availability is limited, and Hajj companies often use multiple airlines and dates, leading to inconvenient schedules. Be prepared for this and flexible with your travel plans. Booking early and through trusted providers is essential to avoid complications.
Yes, the rules are strict and can be confusing. For example, only Saudi airlines are allowed to fly into the country after certain dates. Misunderstanding these regulations can lead to significant financial losses and missed Hajj opportunities.
Unfortunately, there is minimal accommodation for seniors or individuals with specific dietary needs. It’s advisable to bring someone with you if you have severe health issues or special dietary requirements.
Traveling with a well-organized group led by experienced leaders provides necessary guidance and significantly reduces risks. This is especially important given the frequent changes in regulations and the logistical challenges of Hajj.
Ensure that all members of your group book the same Hajj package and program to avoid being separated. Hajj companies can help group friends or family together if they are on the same program.
Yes, the Saudi government now allows women aged 18 and above to perform Hajj without a Mahram. You can apply directly, and arrangements can be made for rooming with other women.
Hajj packages are expensive, and making independent decisions without proper guidance can lead to significant financial losses. It’s important to consult with experienced providers and choose packages carefully to avoid costly mistakes.
It is possible, but not recommended. Post-Hajj, companies focus on departures, and support services may diminish, leaving you to handle logistics on your own.
It depends on your timing in Medina and the availability of appointments through the Nusuk app. If you cannot visit, don’t be disappointed; focus on fulfilling the primary rituals of Hajj.
After Hajj, the focus of Saudi companies shifts to departing pilgrims. Services may decline, so it’s recommended to plan to leave within two to three days after Hajj to avoid being left on your own without support.
All flights are booked through Nusuk site; unfortunately, the options provided may not be convenient.
Yes, it is possible, and packages from Pakistan can sometimes offer more control and better services. However, ensure you understand the differences and potential limitations compared to booking directly from the US.
Yes, the Saudi companies are required to meet and greet you at the airport and to transfer you to your hotel. However, things do get out of hand and if you are part of a group, assistance will be provided in a much better way. However, it’s important to be prepared to handle some aspects of the journey independently, especially during travel transitions.
Changing plans can be difficult during Hajj due to the large number of pilgrims and strict regulations. It’s best to follow the guidelines provided by your Hajj group and avoid making last-minute changes.
Many hotels hosting pilgrims lack on-site medical staff like doctors or nurses. visit you primary care physician and get refills for all your medications. We also recommend that you bring a course of Antibiotics, cough & cold medications with you. Also make sure to go with a group to increase you chance of getting help when needed
If your flight is booked through Nusuk, Rawaf Mina will arrange for your transportation.
Please wait until you receive your ticket from Nusuk.
No flight will arrive to Hajj terminal in Jeddah.
No, your passport will stay with you.
Yes. But Rawaf Mina can’t help you with making these arrangements.
Yes, this was confirmed by Nusuk.
Rawaf Mina will not be arranging Hadi/Qurbani. You can Buy it from any official platform or from our guides.
Please take a screen shot of your eWalet transaction and send it to us with name and passport number (copy of the passport)
Yes, all males will get an Ihram each.
Guides will be assigned after Ramadan.
Yes, but Rawaf Mina won’t be able to provide you with transportation service from and to the airport. Also Rawaf Mina won’t be meeting you at airport or will be responsible to provide you accommodation for any additional days you may need.
Check-in time: 4:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm
As part of activating eWallet, preferably add a small amount into eWallet using different credit/debit cards to make sure there are no fraud blockages on the credit card for foreign transactions. As we understand, all refunds from the eWallet will be subject to a 1.5% processing fee. Also keep in mind the refund process has still not been published.
Our understanding is that full payment would be required when booking a package, paying in instalments will most probably be not an option.
All the funds that you add to the eWallet will be used to pay for the packages for everyone in the account.
As per our understanding, they will first release packages for review for a few days (unknown how long) and then open up booking. Once you find a package that meets your requirements, you should immediately add funds to eWallet and be prepared to complete the booking as soon as it opens. Provided you use the same credit cards that you have used while activating the eWallet.
Topping of an eWallet is just the process of adding funds to your eWallet account so you can use as many Visas or Mastercard credit/debit cards or bank transfers.
Our recommendation is to use credit cards instead of debit or bank transfers.
If you are using a debit card, please check with the bank on the transaction limit and if there are any foreign transaction fees.
If you are planning on using bank transfer, remember it can take up to 10 business days for the funds to be transferred. consider topping the eWallet with required funds.
As per our understanding, full payment is required for booking, no instalments, holding of a package for payment to be transferred.
Recommendation is to add a smaller amount of each credit card to confirm there are no holds on foreign transactions or foreign transaction fees. The reasoning is, for any unforeseen reason, you have to withdraw funds from eWallet, a 1.5% processing fee will apply. We are also not sure of the refund policies yet.
Keep track of which credit card and amount you used for topping the eWallet. If funds have to be refunded, then most probably funds will be refunded back to the same credit cards used.
As soon as packages are released for review, quickly assess which packages match your requirements, and immediately add the funds to be ready for booking.
From the packages selected as possible options, multiply the package price from the highest package amount with the number of members in your account. This is the amount to add.
No, all Package purchasing MUST be done on NUSUK. Unless you have a Pakistani passport then we can purchase you package through us.
There should be an edit information option on your application,
As long as you have your medication and their prescription, there will be no problem.
Hajj process is completely different than Umrah. You must first register on Hajj.Nusuk.Sa and then follow the steps.
Yes, there is. These services are provided on the second and third floor in the Haram. Once you are there, you need to talk to the Saudi agent available for your assistance.
Uploading documents is the first step and you must follow a few steps before you can purchase a package.
This is an approximate estimate of what the price could be. The actual price will be offered on Nusuk once Saudi Arabian companies promote their packages. The price is per person.
No one knows. Based on the news we are getting; the deadline may be by Ramadan.
No there is not. The US quota so far is 3,362 Hajjis, once the quota is full, the doors will be closed. So far over 14,000 applications have submitted on Hajj.Nusuk.Sa
These is a YouTube video on Hajj Council channel. Please click on the following URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6-7ybzv_uE
We are more than happy to help. Please forward image to Admin@HajjCouncil.org and we will look into it for you.
No, there is no age limit to performing Hajj.
As much as possible! Most people spend at least a month before any normal trip just preparing, shopping, planning, etc. Hajj is the most important trip you will ever go on throughout your life. Extensive planning is highly recommended. We suggest two to three months before your flight date, at least.
There is both religious and practical preparation required. For Hajj, there is obviously more to it than just grabbing a Hajj handbook, booking a flight, and going.
Hajj is the journey of a lifetime, so make sure you’re going with the right intention: to please Allah and nobody else. Study the Fiqh of Hajj before going (there are often classes or workshops offered at the local Masjid). Get books, DVDs, audio CDs, whatever it takes.
You should also take care to follow all the policies and procedures implemented by the government of Saudi Arabia, like how to get a Hajj visa, joining a Hajj group, transportation, housing, etc.
Don’t forget to discuss with your boss about vacation time. Hajj will require about three to four weeks off. Talk to your employer(s) or anyone else who needs to know you’ll be out of town for a month.
There are too many to get into detail here. Read the rituals of Hajj and Umrah on our site.
https://hajjcouncil.org/hajj/
7 Things to avoid in ihram: 1- Shaving the hair of the head. 2- using perfume. 3- sexual intercourse. 4- touching one’s wife with desire. 5- killing game. 6- wearing sewn garments by men. 7- wearing niqab by women.
It is permissible for the pilgrim, man or woman, who is doing Hajj or ‘Umrah to cut his or her own hair when exiting the status of Ihram following Hajj or ‘Umrah, and it is also permissible for him or her to cut the hair of another person who wants to exit the status of Ihram.
The pilgrim in ihram should not comb his hair, but there is nothing wrong with him washing his head. As for combing his hair, it brings the risk of causing hair to fall out.
A woman aged 18 and above can now go for Umrah alone, granted with a tourist visa. Click here for more details.
It is permissible.
It is agreed by scholars that a woman should not cover her face (or wear gloves for that matter) during Hajj. The Prophet said, “The Muhrimah (a woman in Ihram) should not cover her face, nor should she wear gloves.”
There are different rulings from the four Madhhabs (schools of Islamic thought) regarding women traveling to Hajj with or without a Mahram.
You can go to the Saudi eVisa Portal at https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
US citizens can apply for Tourist Visa, it is valid for one year, multiple entry and you are allowed to perform Umrah.
It is advised that you should be at the airport 4 hours before departure.
For couples with baby, it’s best to request for a bassinet or skycot seat. Please contact us for this. Remember it is only a request, and airline staff will do their best to accommodate you, but there is a limited availability of these seats. For more details Click Here
Most over-the-counter medicine is available at pharmacies in Makkah. If you are used to a particular brand of medicine or if you take prescribed medication, it is recommended you bring adequate supplies of these. Note that antibiotics will not be dispensed without a prescription.
In the Hanbali madhab (school of thought), it is considered haraam (forbidden) to cut your hair if you’re donating Qurbani (sacrifice) (From 1st Zul-Hijja until the day the sacrifice is slaughtered). According to the majority of the scholars, however, to refrain from cutting your hair is recommended.
Yes, it is permissible to give Qurbani on behalf of someone else. You can pay for your own Qurbani as well as members of your family, or anyone else. The Prophet (saw) would even give an extra Qurbani on behalf of his Ummah.
‘The Prophet (saw) sacrificed for the one who could not sacrifice from his Ummah, one who bore witness to the Oneness of Allah and [his] Prophethood’. [Tabarani and Ahmad]
After fulfilling his personal obligation, the Prophet (saw) gave an additional Qurbani on behalf of the Muslims who could not afford to do so. We encourage all our donors to revive this forgotten Sunnah and help more needy people.
Qurbani is an obligation on all Muslims who possess wealth above the Nisab value – so if you are eligible to pay Zakat, then you must give a Qurbani. This annual sacrifice also carries the great meaning of representing the sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim (as) was prepared to make in honor of our Creator.
No, Qurbani is a separate ritual from Zakat. However, anyone who is eligible for Zakat (any adult, sane Muslim who possesses the Nisab value) must also give a Qurbani, in accordance with the Hanafi school.
We work hard to ensure that the meat from your Qurbani is distributed to those in need during the days of Eid al-Adha.
One Qurbani is either a small animal, such as a goat, or a share in a larger animal, like a cow. Neither is more rewardable i.e., both fulfil your obligation.
Qurbani – or Udhiya – is a sacrifice that is made in the Islamic month Dhul Hijjah during the celebrations of Eid al Adha. The sacrifice made is typically a goat, sheep, cow or camel and is reflective of the personal sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim (S.A.) was prepared to make for the love of Allah (SWT).
So, Qurbani is not obligatory. However, Qurbani is Sunnah mu’akkadah only for Muslims who are capable. Qurbani is one per household. It is Sunnah to eat from your Qurbani and to share it with the poor and your family & friends.
Damm/Fidya is basically an Arabic word which refers to a sacrifice of the animal. The animal sacrifice is to be made according to the Islamic laws i.e. it should be a sacrifice of a goat or a sheep or cost paid for the seventh part of a large animal. People often ask a question about where to pay Damm or Fidya for violating a wajib act of Hajj or Umrah in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
You can pay your Damm/Fidya in the form of a sacrifice (one sheep) for any missed legislated actions or violations occurring during hajj and umrah, by offering a sacrifice in Makkah and having the meat distributed as legislated – to the poor and needy of the people of Makkah. You can pay though our site by Clicking Here.
We recommend everyone to ask a scholar about any problem before taking any action relying upon this information.
Fidyah (Arabic: فدية; meaning “expiation”) is a means of compensation for a missed action or a violation of a Hajj-related law. It shouldn’t be regarded as a punishment, but a means of rectifying and renewing your commitment to the pilgrimage and the Sunnah of Rasulullah ﷺ.
Fidyah is made for fasts missed out of necessity, where the person is unable to make up for the fast afterwards – for example, if someone cannot fast for the required number of days due to ill health, pregnancy or of extreme age (old or young). In Ramadan, the Fidyah must be paid for each fast missed.
No, Qurbani is a separate ritual from Zakat. However, anyone who is eligible for Zakat (any adult, sane Muslim who possesses the Nisab value) must also give a Qurbani, in accordance with the Hanafi school.
Fidya is an obligatory payment that you must make if you cannot fast for a legitimate reason, and you can’t make up the fasts later. According to Islamic law, you need to use your Fidya to provide 2 meals for every single fast missed for those in need.
Riyadh 11564
Saudi Arabia
Telephone: 00966 11-835-4000
Fax: 966-11-4887360
P.O. Box 38955
Dhahran (Doha)
31942, Saudi Arabia
Phone: 966 (013) 839-5700
