Umrah from Philadelphia

Flying from Philadelphia

Philadelphia has one of the oldest African American Muslim communities in the United States alongside a growing South Asian and Arab population, and Philadelphia International Airport offers reliable one-stop connections to Jeddah and Madinah through Gulf and Turkish hubs, though there is no scheduled nonstop flight from the city. Many Philadelphia pilgrims also compare fares from nearby New York or Washington, since the short domestic hop can sometimes unlock a better nonstop or one-stop routing. The city's Umrah travel trade is well established given its long Muslim history, with agents experienced in group and first-time pilgrim bookings. The US dollar is used locally. Pennsylvania winters bring a sharp climate contrast with Saudi Arabia, so pack in layers. Philadelphia's many historic mosques and Islamic centers are a strong source of trusted referrals. Book several months ahead of Ramadan, when demand across the northeastern US corridor pushes fares and hotel rates up quickly.

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 Philadelphia

Your biggest variables are the flight from PHL, 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.