Even when a Hajj package covers flights, accommodation and meals, pilgrims still need money for personal food, local trips, communications, tips, gifts and emergencies. This guide separates fixed Hajj costs from flexible daily spending.
How much extra money to bring
Booking online: If you are budgeting for Umrah rather than Hajj, Wego shows the package estimate separately from daily spending. Packages bundle flights, your hotel stay and the visa application; transport is included on some tiers only.
A practical starting point is SAR 35 to SAR 100 per person per day for personal spending. The table below uses a 14-day Hajj trip and treats the ranges as planning estimates, not official tariffs.
| Item | 14-day planning estimate |
|---|---|
| Adahi voucher, if required and not included | SAR 720 |
| Food, water and snacks outside the package | SAR 490 to 1,120 |
| Independent local transport | SAR 200 to 500 |
| SIM card or eSIM | SAR 85 to 225 |
| Optional tips | SAR 150 to 300 |
| Gifts and personal shopping | SAR 500 to 2,000 |
| Medical and emergency buffer | SAR 200 to 500 |
| Total per pilgrim | SAR 2,345 to 5,365 |
The total is the sum of the listed ranges. Your actual spending can be lower or higher, especially for shopping, taxis and meals. Carry a card accepted in Saudi Arabia and enough small-denomination riyal cash for places that do not accept cards.
Adahi may not be included in your Hajj package
For Hajj 1447H (2026), the Adahi Hady voucher was priced at SAR 720. Hady is required for pilgrims performing Tamattu’ or Qiran Hajj, so the cost normally applies per pilgrim rather than per family.
Check the package invoice before purchasing a separate voucher. If it is not included, use an approved channel such as the official Adahi platform or Nusuk Hajj rather than an informal seller.
Food, drinks and local transport
Even full-board travellers may buy snacks or meals outside package times. Treat SAR 35 to SAR 80 a day as a planning range, then adjust it for restaurant choices and how often you expect to eat outside the hotel.
Package transport usually covers scheduled group movements, not every personal trip. Makkah Bus currently lists SAR 4 single fares on regular routes and SAR 8 on route 7A. Taxis, ride-hailing and intercity rail should be checked for the travel date.
SIMs, tips and medical costs
Compare current plans from Saudi operators such as stc, Mobily and Zain. An eSIM may be convenient, but check that your phone supports it before purchase.
Tipping is optional in Saudi Arabia. Keep any tip budget flexible instead of treating it as a compulsory fee.
Hajj and Umrah entry visas include mandatory health insurance for emergency care through an approved provider network. Coverage is subject to policy terms, so carry regular medication and keep a separate buffer for non-emergency items.
Gifts and Zamzam water
Shopping is the widest variable in the budget, so set a personal limit before entering busy markets. Dates, prayer items, clothing and fragrance vary substantially in price and quality.
King Abdulaziz International Airport lists one standard Zamzam container at SAR 12 per passenger. It says most airlines allow up to five litres as checked baggage, but travellers should confirm the airline and destination-country rules before flying.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rely only on cards in Makkah and Madinah?
Cards are widely accepted at hotels, supermarkets and larger shops, but some small sellers and tip recipients may prefer cash. Carry a modest amount of Saudi riyals in smaller denominations.
Is Adahi included in my Hajj package?
It depends on the package. Check your invoice for an Adahi or Hady line item before purchasing another voucher. If it is not included and your Hajj type requires Hady, budget for it separately.
Does Hajj or Umrah visa insurance cover every medical expense?
No. The Council of Health Insurance describes emergency care through an approved provider network. Check your policy for limits and exclusions, and budget separately for regular medicines and routine care.
