Post-Hajj Umrah Season Boosts Mecca Businesses

Large crowds continue to arrive in Mecca as post-Hajj religious visits and tourism drive activity for local businesses and services. The new Umrah season for international pilgrims begins on 11 June 2026, opening the door to visitors from around the world after this year's Hajj drew 1,707,301 pilgrims — 160,646 from inside the Kingdom and 1,546,655 from abroad.

For those planning an Umrah visit, the dedicated Umrah visa fee is SAR 300, with mandatory medical insurance typically costing between SAR 100 and SAR 180. This brings the total official cost to roughly SAR 400–480 Visitors may also use the tourist eVisa, priced at SAR 535 online with insurance included, which allows Umrah outside the Hajj season. Where eligible, visa on arrival costs SAR 480 in total.

Umrah services and packages can be booked online through the Nusuk platform, run by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Economy Nusuk packages start from around SAR 800, while premium options reach up to about SAR 6,500.

Accommodation and free sites

Hotel prices in Makkah and Madinah rise sharply during Hajj — up to five to ten times normal rates — and remain elevated immediately after due to continued pilgrim traffic. Near Masjid al-Haram, typical rates range from SAR 500 to SAR 2,000 or more

Many of the holiest experiences remain free of charge. Entry to Masjid al-Haram, prayers, and tawaf around the Kaaba are free and open day and night except during brief cleaning windows. The sa'i between Safa and Marwah is also free. This mix of accessible worship and growing visitor numbers continues to support jobs, hospitality, retail, and transport across the holy city.

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