Umrah packing checklist: documents, vaccine, ihram and essentials

A short list of what to sort out and pack before you fly for Umrah. Rules change, so confirm the official requirements with your Umrah agent, airline and the Nusuk platform before you travel.

Documents

• Passport, with enough validity left for your airline and visa. Check the current rule when you apply.
• Visa or eVisa that allows Umrah, and any Umrah permit you need through Nusuk.
• Flight tickets, hotel bookings and travel insurance, saved on your phone and printed.
• Proof of the meningococcal vaccine (see below).
• Copies or photos of all of the above, stored separately from the originals.

Health

• Meningococcal vaccine: Saudi health authorities require travellers aged one and older arriving for Umrah to show proof of a meningococcal vaccine covering serogroups A, C, W and Y, given at least 10 days before arrival and within the last 3 or 5 years depending on the vaccine type. Book it early with a travel clinic.
• Your regular medicines in their original packaging, with a copy of the prescription.
• Plasters or blister pads, rehydration salts and sunscreen. You will walk a lot in the heat.

Clothing

• Men: two ihram sets (two plain white unstitched cloths each), a belt or pouch for money and documents, and sandals that leave the top of the foot and the ankle uncovered.
• Women: loose, modest clothing that covers the body, and comfortable shoes. There is no special colour.
• Light everyday clothes for the days after Umrah, and a light layer for air-conditioned hotels and the mosque.

Rulings on ihram depend on your school of thought, so ask your scholar or Umrah agent if you are unsure.

Toiletries

• Unscented soap, shampoo and deodorant. Perfume is avoided while in ihram.
• A small travel towel, toothbrush or miswak, and nail clippers to use before entering ihram.

Phone, power and money

• A Saudi eSIM or local SIM for maps, ride-hailing and the Nusuk app.
• Saudi Arabia uses 230 V and the UK-style Type G plug, so bring an adapter if your plugs are different, plus a power bank.
• A bank card that works abroad and some Saudi riyals in cash for small purchases.

Small things that help

• A small backpack or shoe bag for the mosque.
• A refillable water bottle.
• A pocket prayer and dua book or an app with offline content.
• Space in your luggage for Zamzam water on the way back, following your airline's rules.

Budget it

Add your flights, hotels, transport and extras to the Umrah cost calculator to see the full cost of your trip, and read how to get from Jeddah airport to Makkah.

This site is independent and not connected to the Saudi government, Nusuk or any airline. Some links are affiliate links. This is general information, not medical or religious advice. Requirements change, so confirm them before you travel. Checked on November 3, 2026.