Top 7 Airlines for Umrah Baggage Allowance

Planning your Umrah journey? Choosing the right airline can save you money and stress when it comes to baggage policies. Here's a quick summary of the top airlines for Umrah pilgrims and their baggage allowances:

• Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): 46kg checked baggage (2 bags of 23kg), 5 litres of Zamzam water included. Excess baggage starts at £48.
• Emirates: Economy baggage ranges from 20kg to 35kg. 5 litres of Zamzam water allowed separately.
• Qatar Airways: Economy baggage starts at 25kg. 5kg of Zamzam water permitted for specific Saudi airports.
• Turkish Airlines: Economy passengers get 23kg checked baggage. Zamzam water policies vary.
• flynas: Economy allows 20kg, with special seasonal allowances for Umrah. 5 litres of Zamzam water included.
• Etihad Airways: Flexible weight-based system with a 5-litre Zamzam water allowance.
• British Airways: Piece-based system with 23kg per bag. 5 litres of Zamzam water allowed from Jeddah or Madinah.

Quick Comparison Table

Airline	Checked Baggage Allowance	Zamzam Water Allowance	Excess Baggage Fees
Saudia	46kg (2 x 23kg)	5 litres	From £48
Emirates	20-35kg	5 litres	Varies
Qatar Airways	25-35kg	5kg	Varies
Turkish Airlines	23kg (Economy)	Varies	From £4/kg
flynas	20kg (Economy)	5 litres	From £6/kg
Etihad Airways	Flexible weight-based	5 litres	From £19/kg
British Airways	23kg per bag	5 litres	Varies

Key Tip: Confirm Zamzam water policies and baggage rules with your airline before travelling, as they may vary. For the full details, check the airline-specific sections in the article.

1. Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)

Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has established itself as a top choice for Umrah pilgrims worldwide. With a deep understanding of the specific needs of religious travellers, the airline offers tailored services to make their journeys as smooth as possible.

Checked Baggage Weight/Size Limits

For 2025, Saudia permits passengers to check in two bags, each weighing up to 23kg, giving a total allowance of 46kg. The flexibility of using two separate bags makes it easier for travellers to organise their belongings, especially when carrying religious items and personal essentials.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

Saudia stands out with its Zamzam water policy, which is particularly beneficial for Umrah pilgrims. Travellers with an Umrah visa can include 5 litres of Zamzam water as part of their free checked baggage allowance. To meet the airline’s requirements, the Zamzam water must be in sealed, factory-packed containers. Additionally, for flights departing from Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah, Saudia provides a complimentary one-gallon package of Zamzam water (up to 5 litres) as part of the checked baggage. These thoughtful measures highlight the airline's dedication to addressing the specific needs of Umrah travellers.

Excess Baggage Fees

For those exceeding the standard baggage allowance, Saudia offers an online pre-paid option for extra baggage at discounted rates - up to 30% cheaper than airport prices. For international flights departing from the United Kingdom, an additional piece within the weight and size limits costs £160 if booked online, but this increases to £200 if paid at the airport.

Charges for excess weight are as follows:

• Bags weighing between 23kg and 32kg incur a £48 fee.
• Bags over 32kg are subject to an additional £80 charge.
• Oversized luggage that exceeds the standard dimensions also attracts an £80 surcharge.

"Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilised to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window."

• Saudia Airlines

2. Emirates

Emirates is known for its generous baggage allowances, making it a convenient choice for travellers carrying essential items. Based in Dubai, the airline offers flexible baggage policies, catering specifically to the needs of religious travellers. Below is an overview of their baggage allowances and special provisions.

Checked Baggage Weight/Size Limits

Emirates uses two different baggage systems depending on your destination. Most routes, including those to Saudi Arabia, operate under the weight concept, while the piece concept applies to flights to and from the Americas and Africa.

For weight-based routes, the allowances vary by class:

Class of Travel	Special	Saver	Flex	Flex Plus
Economy Class	20 kg	25 kg	30 kg	35 kg
Premium Economy	35 kg	35 kg	35 kg	35 kg
Business Class	40 kg	40 kg	40 kg	40 kg
First Class	50 kg	50 kg	50 kg	50 kg

Each bag must weigh no more than 32 kg, and its total dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 300 cm. For flights departing from Dammam International Airport, the size limit is reduced to 215 cm per bag.

On routes where the piece concept applies, Economy Class passengers with Special fares can check one piece of up to 23 kg. Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus fares allow two pieces, with each bag weighing up to 23 kg.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

Acknowledging the needs of Umrah travellers, Emirates offers specific allowances for Zamzam water. Passengers travelling to Madinah or Jeddah for Umrah can carry up to five litres of Zamzam water in addition to their regular checked baggage allowance. The water must be in a sealed, factory-packed container and will be stored in a designated cargo area. For those returning from Jeddah or Madinah, the Zamzam water must meet Saudi customs regulations and can be checked in securely.

Excess Baggage Fees

Emirates restricts passengers to a maximum of 15 pieces of baggage per flight. To avoid any surprises, it’s advisable to check the specific baggage rules for your journey on the Emirates website or through their "Manage Your Booking" service.

3. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways caters to the needs of Umrah pilgrims with generous baggage allowances, making it a popular choice for UK Muslims travelling to Saudi Arabia. Operating several weekly flights to major Saudi cities, the Doha-based airline ensures convenience and flexibility for its passengers. Below, we outline the airline's baggage policies, specifically tailored for Umrah travellers.

Checked Baggage Weight and Size Limits

For flights to Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways uses a weight-based system, while other routes operate on a piece-based system. Here's a breakdown of the weight allowances for Saudi routes:

Travel Class	Economy Classic	Economy Convenience	Economy Comfort
Weight Allowance	25kg (55lb)	30kg (66lb)	35kg (77lb)
Business Class	40kg (88lb)	40kg (88lb)	40kg (88lb)
First Class	50kg (110lb)	50kg (110lb)	50kg (110lb)

Each checked bag must not weigh more than 32kg, and the combined dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 300cm.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

Economy Class passengers can carry one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg, while Business and First Class passengers are permitted two pieces with a combined weight of 15kg. All carry-on luggage must stay within the size limit of 50cm x 37cm x 25cm. Additionally, passengers may bring one personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag.

Special Provisions for Umrah Pilgrims

Qatar Airways offers specific allowances for Umrah pilgrims, particularly for carrying Zamzam water. Passengers departing from Jeddah, Medina, Yanbu, or Taif airports are allowed to transport up to 5kg of Zamzam water per person. The water must be packaged in bottles designed for air travel and produced by the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz ZAMZAM project.

As per Qatar Airways' guidelines:

"Zamzam water must not be carried in the cabin or inside check-in baggage".

To ensure a smooth check-in process, Umrah pilgrims travelling from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah are advised to arrive at least 4 hours before departure.

Excess Baggage Fees

Passengers exceeding their baggage allowance may face additional charges. However, Qatar Airways’ standard baggage policies are typically sufficient for most travellers, helping to minimise the chances of incurring extra fees.

4. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines, based in Istanbul, provides convenient and reliable service to Saudi Arabia, catering to UK Umrah pilgrims with competitive baggage allowances. The airline operates regular flights to Jeddah and Medina, ensuring a smooth journey for travellers.

Checked Baggage Weight and Size Limits

Turkish Airlines employs both piece-based and weight-based systems for checked baggage, with specific allowances depending on the travel class.

Travel Class	Weight Allowance	Number of Pieces
Economy Class	23kg (51 lb)	1 piece
Business Class	32kg (70 lb)	1 piece

If your baggage exceeds these limits, you may need to redistribute items among your bags. Additionally, the total dimensions (length + width + height) of any single piece must not exceed 158cm.

Star Alliance Gold Card members enjoy added perks, such as one extra piece of luggage under the piece-based system or an additional 20kg under the weight-based system.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

Passengers are permitted to bring hand luggage into the cabin, subject to size and weight restrictions. Economy Class travellers are typically allowed one piece of carry-on luggage, whereas Business Class passengers may have additional allowances. All cabin baggage must comply with security regulations and fit in the overhead compartments. Turkish Airlines also accommodates items essential for Umrah, including Zamzam water, within their baggage policies.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

Understanding the spiritual significance of Zamzam water for Umrah pilgrims, Turkish Airlines provides specific provisions for carrying it. However, policies may vary, so it’s essential to check whether Zamzam water is included in the overall baggage allowance or qualifies as an additional allowance. Keep in mind that 1 litre of Zamzam water equates to 1 kilogram, so plan your packing accordingly.

Excess Baggage Fees

Excess baggage fees for international flights range from approximately £4 to £26 per kilogram, depending on the departure and arrival destinations. If you need to bring an extra piece of luggage weighing between 23kg and 32kg, the cost is around £64. To save money and avoid surprises at the airport, Turkish Airlines allows passengers to purchase additional baggage allowance online in advance. There’s also an option to upgrade the standard 23kg limit to 32kg for an extra fee. For Umrah pilgrims who may have shopped extensively during their trip, services in Makkah are available to deliver excess baggage directly to your home.

5. flynas

flynas, a Saudi low-cost airline, provides flexible baggage options tailored for Umrah pilgrims.

Checked Baggage Weight and Size Limits

flynas uses a fare-based system for checked baggage, meaning allowances depend on your ticket type and destination. Each checked bag must measure no more than 75cm (H) x 50cm (W) x 33cm (D), and individual items cannot weigh over 32kg.

Economy Class travellers can check one bag weighing up to 20kg, or 30kg if flying to or from Cairo. Business Class passengers are entitled to two bags with a combined weight of up to 50kg. During the Hajj season, special allowances permit each pilgrim to bring up to two bags, each weighing a maximum of 32kg. If your luggage exceeds these limits, excess baggage fees will apply. For carry-on items, check the cabin baggage rules below.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

flynas allows passengers to bring hand luggage into the cabin, subject to security checks and available overhead space. They also accommodate specific needs for Umrah pilgrims.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

For Umrah travellers, flynas permits each passenger to carry up to 5 litres of Zamzam water. Depending on your fare type, additional fees may apply. Since 1 litre of water equals roughly 1 kilogram, remember to include this in your total baggage weight calculations.

Excess Baggage Fees

To save on excess baggage charges, you can pre-pay online, through the call centre, or at sales offices up to 12 hours before departure - this can reduce costs by up to 50% compared to airport prices. flynas also offers flexibility through its online booking system, allowing you to add or remove baggage up to 12 hours before your flight. If you remove excess baggage within this timeframe, the fees are credited for future use.

Destination	Pre-paid 20kg	Airport 20kg	Per kg Over (Airport)
Domestic	115 SAR (£24)	200 SAR (£42)	30 SAR (£6)
Abu Dhabi	180 SAR (£38)	250 SAR (£53)	50 SAR (£11)
Addis Ababa	300 SAR (£63)	450 SAR (£95)	70 SAR (£15)

Oversized items exceeding 158cm, such as sporting equipment, incur a handling fee of 100 SAR (£21). If baggage restrictions are tight or during peak travel seasons, you might want to explore flynas's Cargo Service as an alternative.

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6. Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, offers flexible baggage policies tailored to meet the needs of Umrah pilgrims travelling from the UK to Saudi Arabia.

Checked Baggage Weight and Size Limits

Etihad Airways uses a system where your baggage allowance depends on your fare type and destination. For UK travellers heading to Saudi Arabia, you can check in multiple bags as long as the total weight stays within your purchased allowance. However, no single bag can weigh more than 32kg.

To find out your exact allowance, Etihad encourages passengers to use their baggage calculator on their website (etihad.com/manage) or input flight details. Standard bag dimensions are limited to 90cm x 72cm x 45cm. Oversized items are allowed if they weigh no more than 32kg and measure up to 300cm, but these incur a £79 fee. Some sports equipment may qualify for exemptions from this charge.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

Carry-on luggage is permitted in the cabin, subject to security checks and available overhead storage. International liquid restrictions apply, but there are specific allowances for religious items.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

Etihad accommodates the needs of pilgrims by allowing each passenger to carry one package of up to 5 litres of Zamzam water free of charge, in addition to their regular checked baggage allowance. The water must be sealed in a plastic container and secured in a cardboard box, which can be purchased at the airport. This benefit applies to passengers departing from Jeddah with valid Umrah or Hajj visas, including GCC nationals.

For cabin baggage, passengers can carry a maximum of 100ml of Zamzam water, following liquid restrictions. It must be placed in a clear, resealable bag.

Excess Baggage Fees

Etihad advises passengers to book additional baggage online for savings of up to 65%. This can be done via etihad.com/manage up to four hours before departure . Note that excess baggage payments are non-refundable, whether fully or partially used.

Frequent flyers who are part of the Etihad Guest programme can use their miles to pay for excess baggage, adding an extra layer of convenience .

For flights between the Middle East and GCC countries, including UK to Saudi Arabia, excess baggage costs $24 (around £19) per kilogram. On routes via the US or Canada, additional 23kg bags cost $270 (£213) if booked 30 hours before departure, compared to $200 (£158) when paid for at the airport .

Route	Cost per kg	Pre-booked Additional 23kg Bag	Airport Additional 23kg Bag
UK to Saudi Arabia (via Middle East/GCC)	$24 (£19)	Not specified	Not specified
Via US/Canada	Varies	$270 (£213)	$200 (£158)
Oversized Baggage (ME/GCC routes)	$40 (£32) each way	N/A	N/A

Use Etihad's online baggage calculator to get precise pricing based on your route and specific requirements.

Etihad's baggage policies provide a range of options, making it easier for travellers to tailor their journey to their needs. Compare these allowances with those of other leading airlines to see how they measure up.

7. British Airways

British Airways, the UK's national airline, offers clear baggage policies tailored to meet the needs of Umrah pilgrims.

Checked Baggage Weight and Size Limits

British Airways operates a piece-based baggage system, with allowances differing by travel class. Economy Class passengers can check in one bag weighing up to 23kg, while Business Class travellers are entitled to two bags, each weighing up to 32kg. The maximum size for checked luggage is 90cm x 75cm x 43cm.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

In addition to checked baggage, passengers are allowed to bring both a handbag and a cabin bag on board. The handbag can measure up to 40cm x 30cm x 15cm and weigh a maximum of 23kg. Similarly, the cabin bag can be up to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm and also weigh up to 23kg. This dual allowance ensures ample space for essential carry-on items.

Special Umrah-Related Provisions

British Airways accommodates the specific needs of Umrah pilgrims by allowing passengers aged 12 and above travelling from Jeddah to London to check in one sealed five-litre container of official Zamzam water, in addition to their standard baggage allowance. This policy also applies to connecting flights booked under the same itinerary. However, the Zamzam water must be purchased from designated shops at Jeddah or Madinah airports. It's recommended to confirm with the airline whether this is an extra allowance or part of your regular baggage, as policies may vary. This thoughtful provision ensures Umrah pilgrims can bring back this important item with ease.

Excess Baggage Fees

For those needing to carry more, extra fees apply for excess baggage. It's generally more economical to purchase additional baggage allowance online in advance rather than paying for excess at the airport. For the latest rates, consult the British Airways website or contact their customer service team.

British Airways' straightforward baggage policies, combined with their understanding of Umrah pilgrims' specific requirements, make them a dependable choice for UK travellers undertaking this spiritual journey.

Airline Baggage Allowance Comparison

Choosing the right airline for your Umrah journey can make a big difference, especially when it comes to baggage policies. Pilgrims often require extra space for items like souvenirs, dates, and Zamzam water, so understanding these policies can help you save both time and money.

Saudia stands out with its generous checked baggage allowance, letting passengers check in two pieces of luggage, each up to 23 kilograms, as of 2025. While their cabin baggage limit is more restrictive at 7 kilograms, they provide a separate allowance for Zamzam water, which doesn’t count towards your standard baggage quota.

Emirates offers a thoughtful option for pilgrims flying to Jeddah or Madinah, allowing up to five litres of Zamzam water in addition to the checked baggage allowance, provided it is properly packaged. Similarly, Qatar Airways permits up to 5 litres of Zamzam water per passenger, though it must be carried separately from your checked or cabin baggage. This allowance is limited to specific airports, including Jeddah (JED), Madinah (MED), Yanbu (YNB), and Taif (TIF).

Etihad Airways provides competitive baggage allowances alongside excellent service. For travellers looking for budget-friendly options, flynas offers pre-paid baggage choices, with savings of up to 50% when booked in advance.

British Airways uses a piece-based baggage system and allows two cabin bags: a handbag (40cm x 30cm x 15cm) and a larger cabin bag (56cm x 45cm x 25cm), each weighing up to 23 kilograms. For passengers aged 12 and above travelling from Jeddah to London, they also allow a five-litre sealed container of Zamzam water, as long as it’s purchased from approved airport shops.

Zamzam water policies vary between airlines. Some offer a separate allowance for it, while others include it in the standard baggage limit, which can affect your packing strategy and overall costs. Booking extra baggage in advance is often a cost-effective option.

To avoid surprises, weigh your luggage before heading to the airport and double-check Zamzam water policies with your airline, as these rules can change. Use this comparison to select the airline that aligns best with your travel and baggage needs.

Conclusion

When planning your Umrah journey, choosing an airline with a generous baggage policy can make a big difference. For example, Saudia allows travellers to bring up to 46kg across two pieces of luggage. Other airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, and flynas also provide competitive options worth considering.

However, baggage isn’t the only factor to keep in mind. Direct flights or those with minimal layovers can significantly improve your travel experience. Routes that offer prayer facilities and accessibility services are particularly beneficial for elderly travellers or families, making the journey more comfortable and convenient.

Beyond flights, managing other aspects of your trip is just as important. From securing visas to booking accommodations and organising travel logistics, having everything sorted in advance ensures a smoother experience. Services like UmrahDeals can be a valuable resource. Their curated packages include flights, accommodations, and expert guidance. With personalised 1-to-1 WhatsApp support, they help you navigate airline rules and avoid unexpected costs, simplifying your journey so you can focus on the spiritual experience ahead.

FAQs

What are the rules for carrying Zamzam water on flights for Umrah, and do they differ between airlines?

Travellers heading for Umrah are typically allowed to carry up to 5 litres of Zamzam water as part of their checked luggage. However, the exact rules can differ depending on the airline. Here’s a quick overview:

• Saudi Airlines: Permits 5 litres of Zamzam water in checked luggage.
• Qatar Airways: Allows one 5-litre bottle, adhering to Civil Aviation regulations.
• Air India: Accepts one 5-litre bottle for passengers holding Umrah or Hajj visas.
• AirAsia: Includes 5 litres of Zamzam water in checked luggage at no extra charge.
• JetBlue: Generously allows up to 10 litres of Zamzam water as a checked bag without additional fees.

To ensure a smooth journey, always double-check your airline’s specific guidelines before you travel.

How can I avoid excess baggage fees when travelling for Umrah, and what are some cost-effective ways to manage additional baggage?

When preparing for Umrah, avoiding excess baggage fees can save you both money and hassle. Start by reviewing your airline's baggage policy - most allow one or two checked bags, typically weighing between 23 kg and 35 kg each. Stick to packing only what you truly need, and use space-saving tools like compression bags to make the most of your luggage space.

If you anticipate needing extra baggage, consider purchasing additional allowance online ahead of your trip. This is usually more affordable than paying at the airport. Another tip is to enrol in your airline's loyalty programme, as it may offer benefits like free extra baggage or increased weight limits. A bit of planning can go a long way in keeping your journey smooth and stress-free.

What should I consider when choosing the best airline for Umrah travel, apart from baggage allowances?

When choosing an airline for Umrah, it’s worth looking beyond just baggage allowances. Prioritise airlines that provide direct flights to Jeddah or Medina. Direct routes not only save time but also minimise the hassle of layovers, making your journey far less stressful.

Comfort should also be a top priority. Check for features like spacious seating, quality onboard services, and amenities designed to make long flights more bearable. Some airlines go the extra mile for Umrah pilgrims by offering halal meals, prayer spaces, and announcements in Arabic, ensuring a more accommodating experience.

It’s also wise to consider airlines with flexible booking policies, which can be a lifesaver if your travel plans need to change. Picking the right airline can make your journey smoother and more relaxing, setting the tone for a meaningful pilgrimage.