Last checked: 1 October 2026. Permit, luggage and airline rules can change — confirm on the official sources linked below before you travel.
Packing for Umrah is different from packing for a normal holiday. You will spend long hours walking between your hotel and the Haram, you may travel between Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, and you need a few items that most travellers never think about. This Umrah packing list is written for international pilgrims — especially first-time visitors to Saudi Arabia — and focuses on what is genuinely useful, with official guidance where it matters.
The short answer: what to pack for Umrah
Pack light, but do not forget the essentials: your travel documents and phone with the Nusuk app, ihram garments (for men) or modest clothing (for women), comfortable walking shoes or sandals, sun protection, simple toiletries, a small day bag, a refillable water bottle and any personal medicines. Keep large suitcases at the hotel and carry only what you need to the Haram.
Umrah packing checklist
| Item | Why it helps | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|
| Passport, visa and hotel details | Needed at the airport, hotel check-in and for permits | Keep digital copies on your phone and paper copies in a separate bag |
| Phone with the Nusuk app | Umrah permits and Rawdah appointments are booked in Nusuk | Install and log in before you fly; bring a charger and power bank |
| Ihram garments (men) | Two unstitched garments worn for Umrah | Pack a spare set in case one gets dirty |
| Modest clothing (women) | Worn in ihram and at the mosques | Choose light, breathable fabrics |
| Comfortable shoes or sandals | You will walk a lot, often on long distances inside and around the mosques | Wear them in before the trip — new shoes cause blisters |
| Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses | Shade can be limited outdoors in the daytime | Check the forecast before you go |
| Toiletries | Daily hygiene during a busy schedule | Read the section on perfume and ihram below |
| Small travel bag | Carry essentials without bringing your suitcase to the Haram | A cross-body bag keeps your hands free |
| Prayer mat, Qur’an or dua book, tasbih | Personal worship during your stay | Lightweight or pocket editions save space |
| Refillable water bottle | Staying hydrated is part of the official health advice | Refill throughout the day |
| Personal medicines | Chronic conditions need planning | Carry them in your hand luggage with a copy of the prescription |
Documents and the Nusuk app
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official Umrah and Visit Guide states that an official permit must be obtained to perform Umrah before heading to Masjid al-Haram, and that this is done exclusively through the Nusuk application. The same guide says that booking a prayer appointment in Al-Rawdah Ash-Sharifah at Masjid an-Nabawi is also done through Nusuk only. Before you fly, make sure Nusuk is installed and working on your phone, and that you can access your booking confirmations without relying on hotel Wi-Fi.
Ihram and clothing
According to the Ministry’s guide, a man enters ihram wearing an izar (lower garment) and a rida (upper garment), both unstitched, while a woman wears whatever permissible, modest clothing she wishes, without adornment. Many travellers pack two sets of ihram so they always have a clean one. The Ministry also recommends reviewing the description of Umrah and its correct rulings before the journey — if you have questions about what is or is not allowed in ihram, ask a qualified scholar or follow the Ministry’s guidance rather than relying on packing lists.
Toiletries, perfume and ihram
The Ministry’s guide says it is recommended to bathe and apply perfume to the body — not the clothing — before entering ihram. Because the rules change once you are in ihram, many pilgrims pack unscented toiletries for that part of the journey. Check the official guidance or ask a scholar about which products you can use while in ihram, and pack accordingly.
Shoes, walking and health
Comfortable footwear is one of the most important items on any Umrah packing list. The Ministry’s guide recommends physical preparation before the trip: taking the required vaccinations, consulting a doctor about chronic conditions, practising walking before you travel, and drinking enough water. Pack shoes or sandals you have already worn for long walks, plus plasters for blisters. If you are travelling with elderly relatives, plan shorter walking routes and consider transport between the hotel and the Haram — see our hotels in Makkah and Madinah to compare locations.
Sun protection
A hat or umbrella, sunscreen and sunglasses make daytime walking much more comfortable. Conditions vary by season, so check the forecast for Makkah and Madinah on the National Center for Meteorology website a few days before you travel.
Bags and luggage
The Ministry advises pilgrims to leave large bags at the hotel or in designated safekeeping offices, to label luggage clearly with their name and contact details, and not to leave it unattended. In practice, that means two bags: your main suitcase, which stays at the hotel, and a small day bag for the Haram with your phone, documents, water, a small prayer mat and any medicines.
If you plan to travel between cities by train, check the luggage rules first. The Haramain High Speed Railway FAQ lists one bag per passenger with overall dimensions of up to 65 × 55 × 35 cm and a maximum of 25 kg, plus a handbag or laptop bag. Families with several large suitcases often find a road transfer simpler — our Makkah to Madinah train or road guide compares both options.
Zamzam water
Many pilgrims want to take Zamzam water home. The Ministry’s guide advises avoiding placing Zamzam water containers inside checked baggage, to prevent bags being opened and delayed, and notes that shipping Zamzam is subject to special conditions. Airlines set their own rules for carrying Zamzam, so check directly with your airline before you pack it. Learn more about the Zamzam Well.
Tips for international travellers
- Keep essentials in your hand luggage: documents, medicines, a change of clothes and, for men, one set of ihram — useful if checked luggage is delayed.
- Save addresses offline: your hotel name and address in English and Arabic, plus your driver’s or hotel’s contact number.
- Plan your airport arrival: if you land in Jeddah, read our guide to getting from Jeddah Airport to Makkah; arriving in Madinah, see Madinah Airport to your hotel.
- Travelling with children: the Ministry’s guide asks parents to guide children inside the mosque and avoid letting them play in open courtyards — pack small snacks and a light activity for quiet moments.
Getting from the airport to your hotel with all your luggage
Once your bags are packed, plan the first journey. ZiyaraWay arranges private airport transfers and Makkah – Madinah transfers in vehicles chosen for your group size and luggage. Standard fares for common routes are listed on our transport rates page, and every request is confirmed individually. You can also explore all transport options or our Umrah guide.
Frequently asked questions
What should men wear for Umrah?
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s guide says a man enters ihram wearing an izar (lower garment) and a rida (upper garment), both unstitched.
What should women wear for Umrah?
According to the same guide, a woman wears whatever permissible and modest clothing she wishes, without adornment.
Can I put Zamzam water in my checked luggage?
The Ministry’s guide advises against placing Zamzam containers in checked baggage. Airline rules differ, so confirm with your airline before travelling.
Do I need an app for Umrah?
Yes — the Ministry states that the Umrah permit and Rawdah prayer appointments are booked through the Nusuk application only.
Plan your Umrah transport
Tell us your flight, hotel and number of travellers and bags, and we will suggest a suitable vehicle. Send a transfer request or message us on WhatsApp.