The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a religious obligation that every Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime, provided they have the financial and physical means to do so. Every year, millions of Muslims travel to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia to fulfill this sacred duty.

With Hajj 2025 expected to attract a large number of pilgrims post-pandemic, early planning and booking are more important than ever. This guide provides an in-depth look at Hajj 2025 packages, including types, prices, what's included, tips for choosing the right one, and important travel advice.

What Is Included in a Standard Hajj Package?

Hajj packages are typically all-inclusive, designed to help pilgrims focus on their worship while travel agents handle the logistics. Here’s what most packages include:

✅ Airfare

  • Round-trip flights from your departure country to Jeddah or Madinah.

  • Some packages offer direct flights; others may have layovers.

✅ Visa Processing

  • Hajj visa assistance through official channels.

  • Health screening and travel insurance (now mandatory).

✅ Accommodation

  • Hotels in Makkah and Madinah.

  • Temporary lodging in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah during Hajj days.

  • Options range from budget to luxury (3-star to 5-star hotels).

✅ Meals

  • Daily meals included (full board or half board).

  • During Mina/Arafat stay, pre-packaged meals and drinks are provided.

✅ Transportation

  • Private or group buses for city transfers and Hajj rituals.

  • In premium packages, private vehicles or high-speed rail may be available.

✅ Religious Guidance

  • Experienced scholars and group leaders accompany pilgrims to guide them through rituals.

✅ Other Services

  • Zamzam water (gift bottles).

  • Ihram clothing (in some packages).

  • Sim cards, laundry, and other add-ons (varies by package).

Types of Hajj Packages

🟢 Economy Hajj Package

  • Ideal for: Budget-conscious pilgrims, students, large families

  • Price Range: $5,000 – $7,000 USD

  • Inclusions:

    • Shared rooms (quad or quint sharing)

    • Group transport

    • Longer duration (up to 25 days)

    • Basic meals

  • Drawbacks: Farther hotel distance from Haram, crowded tents in Mina

🟡 Standard Hajj Package

  • Ideal for: Couples, small families, mid-level travelers

  • Price Range: $7,500 – $9,500 USD

  • Inclusions:

    • Triple or double room sharing

    • Closer hotels (within 700m–1.5km of Haram)

    • Guided Ziyarat in Makkah and Madinah

    • Better meals and group management

🔵 VIP / Premium Hajj Package

  • Ideal for: Elderly, professionals, or those seeking high comfort

  • Price Range: $10,000 – $15,000+ USD

  • Inclusions:

    • Private tents in Mina and Arafat with AC

    • 5-star hotels near Haram (within 500 meters)

    • Business class flights (optional)

    • Gourmet dining, laundry, and concierge services

Example Packages by Region

🌍 From the USA

  • Operator: Sara International Travel

  • Standard Package: ~$8,200 (quad sharing)

  • VIP Package: ~$13,000+

  • Duration: 18–21 days

  • Departure: JFK, Chicago, Houston

  • Website: sarainternationaltravel.com

🌍 From the UK

  • Operator: Dar El Eiman or Al-Haram Tours

  • Standard Package: £6,500–£8,000

  • VIP Package: £11,000+

  • Inclusions: Flights, 4/5-star hotels, transport, ziyarat, visa

  • Departure: London Heathrow, Manchester

🌍 From Canada

  • Operator: Al-Islam Travel

  • Price Range: CAD 12,000–18,000

  • Departure Cities: Toronto, Montreal

  • Notes: Early registration required due to quota limits

🌍 From India/Pakistan/Bangladesh

  • Operator: Government-approved Hajj Committee & private operators

  • Price (India): ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,50,000

  • Includes: Flights, hotels, food, visa, transport

  • Application through: Ministry of Minority Affairs portal

  • Note: India has both government and private Hajj quota options

When Is Hajj 2025?

  • Expected Dates: Hajj 2025 is expected to begin around June 4, 2025, and continue for 5–6 days.

  • Key Dates:

    • 8 Dhul Hijjah: Arrival in Mina

    • 9 Dhul Hijjah: Day of Arafah (main day of Hajj)

    • 10–13 Dhul Hijjah: Eid al-Adha and stoning rituals

Note: These dates are subject to moon sighting and official Saudi announcement.

Important Tips for Booking Hajj 2025

1. Book Early

  • Many agencies open bookings up to a year in advance.

  • Earlier bookings often come with better prices and confirmed slots.

2. Check Accreditation

  • Ensure your travel agent is approved by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

3. Understand the Grouping

  • Some packages cater to specific languages (Arabic, English, Urdu).

  • Group sizes vary; smaller groups offer more personalized care.

4. Health and Fitness

  • Pilgrimage requires physical stamina.

  • Ensure you have completed required vaccinations (meningitis, COVID-19, etc.)

5. Documentation

  • Valid passport (6+ months)

  • Recent passport-sized photographs

  • Vaccination certificates

  • National ID/residency permit (if applicable)