Difference between Hajj and Umrah
Hajj and Umrah are both pilgrimages to Mecca, but they differ in timing, rites, duration, cost and organisation. The differences are set out point by point below.
Last updated: 2026-09-09
Short answer
Hajj can only be performed in Dhul Hijjah, lasts about five days and is obligatory once in a lifetime. Umrah can be performed all year, takes a few hours and is recommended. Saudi Arabia requires valid proof of meningococcal ACWY for both.
Planning your vaccination
- Meningococcal ACWY, required for Saudi Arabia
- International vaccination certificate straight away
- Evening and weekend appointments, every day 10:00 to 22:00
The differences at a glance
- Timing: Hajj only from 8 to 13 Dhul Hijjah, Umrah all year round
- Obligation: Hajj is obligatory once when able, Umrah is strongly recommended
- Duration: the Hajj rites take about five days, the Umrah rites a few hours
- Places: Hajj also goes to Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, Umrah stays in Mecca
- Rites: only Hajj includes the standing at Arafat, the night at Muzdalifah, the stoning at the jamarat and the sacrifice
- Registration: Hajj for European pilgrims runs through hajj.nusuk.sa, an Umrah visa is arranged via nusuk.sa or a provider
- Cost: Hajj usually costs a multiple of an Umrah trip
What is medically the same
Both journeys are subject to the Saudi entry requirement of meningococcal ACWY, administered at least ten days before arrival and recorded in an international vaccination certificate. Recommended vaccinations are the same too: hepatitis A, a DTP booster and, depending on your situation, influenza and COVID-19.
The difference lies in the physical strain. Hajj is more demanding because of the days in Mina and at Arafat, the heat and the crowds. Anyone with a chronic condition therefore prepares more thoroughly for Hajj than for Umrah.
Information about registration and packages is based on the official Nusuk Hajj platform of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Registration and payment take place there only; DKliniek provides the medical preparation.
Official sources
- hajj.nusuk.sa — Official registration and packages
- haj.gov.sa — Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
- visa.mofa.gov.sa — Saudi visa information
- lcr.nl — Dutch national travel health centre
- who.int — World Health Organization
Arrange your vaccinations in time
Meningococcal ACWY is required for entry to Saudi Arabia and must be given at least ten days before arrival. We also advise you on DTP, hepatitis A and your certificate.
- Meningococcal ACWY, required for Saudi Arabia
- International vaccination certificate straight away
- Evening and weekend appointments, every day 10:00 to 22:00
- Groups and families vaccinated in one session
Frequently asked questions
Continue reading
What is Hajj (Hadj)?
A clear explanation of Hajj, also written as Hadj: its meaning, who is obliged to perform it and how it differs from Umrah.
Hajj and Umrah vaccinations: required and recommended
Which vaccinations do you need for Hajj or Umrah, when should you arrange them and what proof do you take along? Meningococcal ACWY is required for entry to Saudi Arabia.
What does Hajj cost? The price build-up explained
What makes up the price of a Hajj package and why do offers differ so much? An explanation of duration, hotel location, season and additional costs.