Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and obligatory once in a lifetime for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able. This guide walks through what to expect in 2027, the sequence of rites, and the paperwork and health steps to complete before you travel.
When is Hajj 2027?
Hajj takes place from the 8th to the 12th (or 13th) of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. For 2027, the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the Day of Arafah) is expected to fall in mid-May 2027, with 1448 AH beginning around that time. Exact dates are confirmed only by official Saudi moon sighting a few weeks beforehand, so treat any date before then as approximate and book with a flexible window.
Because dates shift about 10–11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar, planning 8–12 months ahead is normal. Request a quote to receive current confirmed departure windows.
The three types of Hajj
- Tamattu’ — perform Umrah first, exit ihram, then re-enter ihram for Hajj. Most non-residents do this; it requires a sacrificial offering (hady).
- Qiran — combine Umrah and Hajj in a single ihram without exiting in between; also requires a hady.
- Ifrad — Hajj only, with no Umrah combined and no hady required.
Day-by-day: the rites of Hajj
| Day | What happens |
|---|---|
| 8 Dhul Hijjah (Yawm at-Tarwiyah) | Enter ihram and make intention for Hajj. Travel to Mina and stay overnight, praying Dhuhr through Fajr there. |
| 9 Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) | Move to the plain of Arafah. Stand in worship and du’a from Dhuhr until sunset — the essential pillar of Hajj. After sunset, travel to Muzdalifah, pray Maghrib and Isha together, rest, and collect pebbles. |
| 10 Dhul Hijjah (Eid al-Adha) | Return to Mina. Stone the large pillar (Jamrat al-Aqabah) with seven pebbles, offer the sacrifice, shave or trim the hair, then perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i in Makkah. Most ihram restrictions are lifted. |
| 11–12 Dhul Hijjah (Days of Tashreeq) | Stay in Mina. Stone all three pillars each afternoon. Pilgrims leaving early depart Mina before sunset on the 12th; others stay for the 13th and stone again. |
| Before departure | Perform the farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada’) as the last act in Makkah. |
Visa & documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel, with blank pages.
- Hajj visa issued through an approved organiser (this is not a tourist visa) — included and processed in our packages.
- Recent white-background passport photos.
- Proof of vaccinations (see below) and a completed booking form.
Health & vaccinations
Saudi authorities require a quadrivalent meningococcal (ACYW135) vaccination certificate, issued 10 days to 3 years before arrival. Seasonal influenza and polio requirements may apply depending on your country of origin, and COVID-19 rules can change — always check the latest Saudi Ministry of Health Hajj guidelines before travel. Bring a personal medical kit and a list of any regular medications in their original packaging.
What does Hajj cost?
From outside Saudi Arabia, guided Hajj packages typically range from about $10,000 to $18,000+ per person, depending on hotel distance from the Haram, room sharing (Quad, Triple or Double), whether accommodation is Shifting or Non-Shifting, trip length and airfare season. See our Hajj Packages page for a full breakdown.
Practical tips
- Build your fitness beforehand — expect several kilometres of walking daily.
- Pack light, unscented toiletries; scented products are not allowed in ihram. See our packing checklist.
- Carry a refillable water bottle, oral rehydration salts and a small umbrella for shade.
- Memorise your hotel name, group leader's number and Mina tent/camp number.
- Keep expectations flexible — crowds and delays are part of the journey; patience is part of the worship.
Related: Hajj vs Umrah differences · How to perform Umrah · Packing checklist · Ziyarat guide
This article is general guidance, not a religious ruling. For fiqh questions specific to your situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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