Saudi Arabia has introduced new luggage regulations for Umrah pilgrims to ensure smooth travel and prevent the transport of prohibited items. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released an advisory outlining the banned items and luggage specifications for those traveling to Makkah.
Prohibited Items for Umrah Pilgrims
The following items are strictly prohibited for Umrah pilgrims:
- Fireworks – All types of fireworks are banned.
- Counterfeit Currency – Carrying fake currency is illegal.
- Unregistered Medications – Any medicine not registered with Saudi authorities is prohibited.
- Surveillance Equipment – Hidden cameras, eavesdropping devices, and radar detectors are banned.
- Stun Guns & Laser Pens – These items are not allowed.
- Excessive Cash & Valuables – Pilgrims should avoid carrying over SAR 60,000 ($16,000) in cash.
For a complete list, pilgrims can visit the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) website (zatca.gov.sa).
Luggage Rules for Umrah Travelers
To avoid travel disruptions, Umrah pilgrims must follow these baggage guidelines:
- Avoid Irregularly Shaped Bags – Circular or unstructured luggage is not permitted.
- No Oversized or Heavy Suitcases – Large or excessively heavy bags can cause delays.
- No Fabric Luggage Carriers – Soft, unstructured fabric bags with multiple straps are discouraged.
Important Travel Guidelines
- Single Umrah in Ramadan – To manage crowds, authorities recommend performing Umrah only once during Ramadan.
- Check Customs Rules – Pilgrims should review banned items before traveling to avoid fines or confiscations.
Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its regulations to provide a safe and efficient pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims are advised to stay updated with the latest Umrah travel guidelines for a smooth journey to Makkah and Madinah.
