Upon your arrival in Saudi Arabia, you’ll navigate several steps at the airport before you can proceed to Makkah or Madinah.
Most pilgrims arrive via King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah for Makkah or Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah. This guide primarily covers procedures at Jeddah airport, though many are similar in Madinah, where processes tend to be quicker due to its smaller size.
Hajj Terminal
The Hajj Terminal, one of three at KAIA, is designated for pilgrims and is among the world’s largest, featuring distinctive fiberglass tent-like structures that allow natural ventilation. It’s equipped to host 50,000 pilgrims during arrival and 80,000 during departure phases.
Arrival
On landing, complete your disembarkation card (provided by the flight crew) and proceed via shuttle to the Hajj Terminal. Here, in the waiting lounge, staff will process your passport and card. During this wait, it’s a good time for rest or prayer.
Immigration
In the immigration hall, officials will check your passport, visa, vaccination certificate, and ticket. You’ll queue by gender for processing, which may include health checks and fingerprinting.
Luggage
After immigration, locate your luggage. It may not be on the conveyor belt, so stay vigilant and keep your luggage marked distinctly for easy identification. Trolleys are scarce and must be fetched quickly.
Customs
Customs officials will inspect your luggage next. Have your bags unlocked and ready for a thorough check. Avoid carrying questionable items like certain magazines or CDs, which could delay your processing.
Processing
You’ll then move to an open-walled area under the terminal’s vast tent structures. Here, porters will transport your luggage to an assigned spot—avoid tipping or engaging with insistent porters.
Mutawwif
You’ll be grouped and assigned a Mutawwif, a guide appointed by the Ministry of Hajj responsible for your transportation, accommodation, and overall welfare during Hajj.
Travel Coupons
For Hajj, a pre-paid banker’s draft included in your Hajj package covers the services of your Mutawwif and is exchanged at the airport for travel coupons essential for your journey within Saudi Arabia.
Facilities
The terminal offers cafes, shops, prayer areas, and telecommunication services. Despite its size, finding your way can be challenging, so note your surroundings carefully.
Money
Currency exchange is available at the airport bank. Opt for smaller denominations for convenience during your stay.
Onward Travel
After completing all formalities, you’ll board a government bus to Makkah or Madinah. Your passport will be collected for the duration of your stay and returned upon departure.
Umrah
For those performing Umrah outside of Hajj season, the procedures are shorter and may differ in terms of terminal use and formalities. Check with your travel agent for specific guidance.