Umrah from Istanbul
What pilgrims leaving from Istanbul need to know: the flight, the visa route for Turks, the season and a realistic budget.
Flying from Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the best-connected cities in the world for Umrah travel, with Istanbul Airport running frequent nonstop flights to both Jeddah and Madinah on Turkish Airlines and Saudia, and competitive fares thanks to heavy route competition, including budget options on Pegasus. Turkey's own large Muslim population means a mature, highly competitive domestic Umrah travel trade, and Istanbul also serves as a major connecting hub for pilgrims from across Europe, the Balkans, and Central Asia, so it's worth comparing whether flying via Istanbul beats a nonstop option from elsewhere. The Turkish lira is the local currency, though it can be volatile, so check current exchange rates close to travel. Istanbul's climate varies by season, with hot summers and cold, wet winters, worth factoring into layering choices for the flight. Local mosques and travel agencies across the city are numerous; check for a valid TÜRSAB (Turkish travel agency) licence before booking. Book ahead of Ramadan for the best fares.
Umrah visa for Turks
Turkish passport holders are on Saudi Arabia's eVisa list, so most Turks 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. Turks 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 Istanbul
Your biggest variables are the flight from IST, the hotel's distance from the Haram, and the season. Use the cost calculator for a range in TRY, 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.