Umrah from Izmir
What pilgrims leaving from Izmir need to know: the flight, the visa route for Turks, the season and a realistic budget.
Flying from Izmir
Izmir, on Turkey's Aegean coast, has an active local Umrah travel trade, though most pilgrims connect through Istanbul for the onward international leg to Jeddah or Madinah, since Adnan Menderes Airport's long-haul options are limited compared to Istanbul's. The domestic connection to Istanbul is short and well served by both Turkish Airlines and budget carrier Pegasus, making this a straightforward two-leg journey that can typically be booked together. As with the rest of Turkey, confirm any agency holds a valid TÜRSAB licence before paying a deposit. The Turkish lira is used locally, and its value can fluctuate, so check current rates close to your travel date. Izmir's Mediterranean climate brings hot, dry summers and mild winters, a reasonable comparison point for Jeddah's coastal heat, though Saudi Arabia's peak summer temperatures still run higher. Book well ahead of Ramadan for the best fares on the Istanbul connection.
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 Izmir
Your biggest variables are the flight from ADB, 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.