Umrah from New York
What pilgrims leaving from New York need to know: the flight, the visa route for Americans, the season and a realistic budget.
Flying from New York
New York has one of the largest and most diverse Muslim populations in North America, and John F. Kennedy International Airport runs regular nonstop Saudia service to Jeddah, alongside a dense schedule of one-stop options through Gulf and European hubs. The city's Umrah travel trade is large and competitive, with agents serving South Asian, Arab, African, and other communities across the boroughs, so it pays to ask for a recent traveller's recommendation rather than choosing on advertising alone. New York's Ramadan travel demand is intense, with fares and hotel rates near the Haram climbing sharply, so book as early as you can manage. The US dollar is used locally. Given the diversity of the city's Muslim communities, mosque networks in neighbourhoods like Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Bay Ridge are a strong source of trusted operator referrals. Confirm any agent's licensing and ask for an itemised breakdown of exactly what a package includes before paying.
Umrah visa for Americans
American passport holders are on Saudi Arabia's eVisa list, so most Americans 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. Americans who prefer a fully organised trip can still book the same journey through a licensed Umrah company instead.
Full visa guide for Americans →
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 New York
Your biggest variables are the flight from JFK, the hotel's distance from the Haram, and the season. Use the cost calculator for a range in USD, 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.