Umrah from Almaty
What pilgrims leaving from Almaty need to know: the flight, the visa route for Kazakhs, the season and a realistic budget.
Flying from Almaty
Kazakhstan's Muslim population has grown its religious practice significantly since independence from the Soviet Union, and Almaty International Airport runs nonstop flights to Jeddah and Madinah on Air Astana and Saudia, with capacity rising around Ramadan and Hajj season. Kazakhstan's Umrah travel trade is well organised, and the government's Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan plays a role in coordinating official Hajj arrangements, while private agencies handle most Umrah bookings, so check an operator's licensing before paying. The Kazakhstani tenge is used locally. Almaty's continental climate brings cold winters and hot summers, so pack according to your travel month, keeping the shift to Saudi Arabia's heat in mind either way. Given Kazakhstan's vast size, Almaty serves as the main departure point for pilgrims from across the southern and eastern parts of the country. Book several months ahead of Ramadan and Hajj season, when demand across Central Asia's growing religious travel market is highest.
Umrah visa for Kazakhs
Kazakh passport holders are on Saudi Arabia's eVisa list, so most Kazakhs can apply directly through Nusuk or Visit Saudi rather than use an agent. The eVisa is multiple-entry, valid a year, covers Umrah as well as tourism, and allows up to 90 days per entry. It must still be used to enter within 30 days of issue, and hotel and transport now have to be booked inside Nusuk before it is issued. For the 1448 AH Umrah season (31 May 2026 to 7 Apr 2027), book early, since rooms and Rawdah or Mataf permit slots fill fast around Ramadan. Kazakhs who prefer a fully organised trip can still book the same journey through a licensed Umrah company instead.
When to go
Ramadan carries the greatest reward and the greatest crowds and prices; the weeks after Hajj (late Dhul Hijjah into Muharram) and the winter months (November to February) are cooler and quieter. The 1448 AH season runs from 31 May 2026 to 7 April 2027 for arrivals and departures. See the best time to perform Umrah.
What it costs from Almaty
Your biggest variables are the flight from ALA, the hotel's distance from the Haram, and the season. Use the cost calculator for a range in KZT, then compare operator quotes line by line: visa, flights, hotel nights and category, transfers, and Makkah, Madinah transport.
Before you book
- Check that the operator is contracted through Nusuk Masar (ask for their Saudi partner's name).
- Confirm the hotel name and distance, not just "near Haram".
- Read how to avoid Umrah scams and how to choose an operator.
- Install the offline companion before you fly.