Budgeting for Hajj: A Financial Planning Guide for a Life-Changing Journey
Hajj is not just a religious obligation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey for millions of Muslims. But it’s also a significant financial commitment, especially for those planning to attend with family or from distant countries. Between airfare, accommodation, government fees, and ritual expenses, costs can quickly add up.
This guide breaks down the typical costs of Hajj, offers money-saving tips, and helps you choose affordable yet comfortable options—so you can focus on your worship, not your wallet.
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Understanding the Financial Commitment of Hajj
The cost of Hajj can range dramatically depending on:
- Your country of origin
- Whether you choose a government or private Hajj package
- The level of accommodation and service
- The time of booking and exchange rate fluctuations
Average Total Cost Estimates (Per Person):
| Region | Estimated Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| South Asia (e.g., India, Pakistan, Bangladesh) | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Middle East | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Europe & UK | $7,000 – $10,000+ |
| North America (USA/Canada) | $9,000 – $13,000+ |
| Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Egypt) | $3,500 – $6,500 |
Note: These prices can vary based on package types, government quotas, currency exchange rates, and seasonal surcharges.
Key Cost Components of Hajj
1. Hajj Travel Packages
This is the bulk of your expense. Packages usually include:
- Flights (roundtrip)
- Accommodation in Makkah, Madinah, Mina, and Arafat
- Local transportation
- Food and beverages
- Group guide and religious support
Tip: Compare government-approved and private packages. Some private options offer flexible payment plans but be sure they are Ministry-licensed.
2. Accommodation
Your Hajj package may offer different tiers:
- Economy tents in Mina
- Budget hotels (2–3 star)
- Luxury towers near Masjid Al Haram
Choosing slightly further accommodation from the Haram often saves hundreds of dollars.
3. Visa and Processing Fees
Some countries include this in the package; others charge separately. Typical fees include:
- Visa issuance fee
- Medical screening
- COVID-19 vaccine requirements
- Travel insurance (mandatory in many cases)
Estimated: $300–$600
4. Qurbani (Sacrificial Animal) Fee
This is an essential ritual during Hajj. Fees vary based on the organization handling it.
- Estimated range: $100 – $150
- Can be paid in advance through Hajj agencies or online portals authorized by the Saudi government.
5. Miscellaneous Costs
- Zamzam water shipping
- Ihram clothing
- Prayer mats, umbrellas, slippers
- Toiletries, medications
- SIM/eSIM data plan for mobile internet
Budget about $100–$300 for extras.
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Money-Saving Tips for Hajj
1. Start Planning Early
- Early bookings get the best rates.
- Some agencies offer 12–18 month installment plans.
2. Travel in Groups
Booking as a group often unlocks discounts and allows shared services (wheelchairs, guides, translators).
3. Choose a Balanced Package
You don’t need five-star accommodation steps from the Haram to have a meaningful Hajj. A mid-tier hotel within shuttle distance balances cost and comfort.
4. Budget for Off-Peak Add-ons
Avoid excessive spending in Makkah/Madinah on souvenirs or luxury food. Keep cash for essentials.
5. Use a Travel eSIM Instead of Roaming
Roaming charges can be excessive during Hajj. Use Voye Global’s eSIM for Saudi Arabia to get prepaid high-speed internet without any surprise bills.
Cost Breakdown Example: Hajj from the USA (Mid-Tier Package)
| Expense | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hajj Package (flight, hotel, food) | $8,000 |
| Visa, medical screening, insurance | $500 |
| Sacrificial Animal (Qurbani) Fee | $120 |
| Travel Gear & Essentials | $250 |
| Mobile Internet (eSIM) | $35–$60 |
| Personal spending | $200–$300 |
| Estimated Total | $9,100 – $9,500 |
Making Hajj Financially Attainable
- Open a Hajj Savings Account: Many Islamic banks offer Hajj-specific accounts that are Shariah-compliant.
- Create a Hajj Jar: Save loose change or small bills weekly—it adds up.
- Earn Reward Points or Miles: Use travel credit cards to book flights or earn hotel discounts.
- Seek Community Support: Some mosques or nonprofits help eligible Muslims save or raise funds for Hajj.
Staying Online Without Overspending
Staying connected during Hajj is crucial for:
- Real-time group coordination
- Emergency contact
- Navigation and language apps
- Following Hajj updates via official platforms
Avoid costly roaming. With Voye Global’s eSIM for Saudi Arabia, you get:
- Instant QR code activation
- No SIM swap
- Multiple prepaid data plans
- Reliable 4G/5G in Makkah, Mina, and Madinah
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FAQs: Budgeting for Hajj
1. How many days is Hajj?
Hajj typically lasts 5 to 6 days, starting on the 8th and ending on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
2. How long does Hajj take?
While the core rituals take about 5–6 days, many pilgrims spend 10–15 days including travel, preparation, and rest.
3. How to go for Hajj?
To perform Hajj, you must register through an authorized Hajj travel agency or your country’s Hajj committee. Pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa, select a package, and complete all required medical and travel documentation.
4. How much is a Hajj package?
Hajj packages include accommodation, transport, meals, guides, and visa services.
- Economy packages start around $6,000 USD
- VIP packages can exceed $20,000 USD
5. How much does Hajj cost per person?
On average, the cost per person ranges from $6,000 to $12,000 USD, depending on departure country and services included.
6. How much is a trip to Hajj overall?
A full Hajj trip—including flights, visa, meals, lodging, and local transport—may cost between $8,000 to $12,000 USD for international travelers.
7. How much spending money do you need for Hajj?
Plan for around $300 to $800 USD in personal spending for food, shopping, SIM/eSIM data, and other necessities.
8. How much is VIP Hajj?
VIP Hajj packages range between $15,000 to $25,000+ USD, including luxury hotels, private buses, exclusive tents in Mina and Arafat, and premium meals.
9. How much is Qurbani during Hajj?
Qurbani (animal sacrifice) usually costs between $100 to $200 USD, depending on your selected provider.
10. How much does Hajj cost from USA?
Between $9,000 – $13,000, depending on package tier and services.
11. How much does Hajj cost from UK?
Typically ranges from $7,000 – $10,000, with variations in hotel quality and location.
12. How much does Hajj cost from Canada?
Canadian pilgrims can expect to pay $9,000 – $13,000.
13. How much does Hajj cost from India?
Via the Hajj Committee of India or private operators, packages range from $2,500 – $6,000.
14. How much does Hajj cost from Saudi Arabia?
Residents pay much less—usually SAR 3,000 to SAR 12,000.
15. How much does Hajj cost from Pakistan?
In 2025, the cost is approximately PKR 11 to 18 lakh, depending on whether the pilgrim chooses a government or private package.
16. How much does Hajj cost from Kenya?
Packages range from KES 650,000 to 1,000,000, depending on the operator.
17. How much does Hajj cost from Egypt?
Costs vary from EGP 150,000 to 250,000, based on travel class and accommodation.
18. How much does Hajj cost from Germany?
Hajj packages from Germany typically range from €6,500 to €10,000.
19. How much does Hajj cost from Somalia?
Somali pilgrims generally pay between $4,000 to $7,000 USD, depending on the service provider.
20. How much is a Hajj visa?
The Hajj visa itself is free, but processing and insurance fees charged by travel agencies can range from $300 to $600 USD.
21. How much does a Hajj visa cost?
While the visa itself carries no government charge, administrative fees from agencies may apply.
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