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Planning Umrah starts with finding the right flight. In 2026, Indian pilgrims can choose from a growing set of direct and one-stop routes to Saudi Arabia — with several airlines expanding capacity to meet demand. This guide explains which airlines fly from Indian cities, which routes are most common, what to check before booking, and how recent Saudi visa requirements may affect your flight plans.
Major airlines & direct routes
A number of carriers operate regular services between India and Saudi Arabia. Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) and low-cost Saudi carrier Flynas have expanded services connecting major Indian hubs to Jeddah and Madinah — useful for pilgrims heading straight to the holy cities. In late-2026, new direct routes (including announcements by Indian carriers) are increasing options for travelers.
Which Indian cities have the best connections?
- Delhi (DEL): Frequent services to Jeddah and Madinah via multiple carriers — often the best hub for one-stop or direct flights.
- Mumbai (BOM): Increased connectivity including seasonal and direct flights to Madinah and Jeddah; useful for western India pilgrims.
- Hyderabad, Kochi, Calicut & Lucknow: Gulf and Saudi low-cost carriers (e.g., Flynas) now operate direct/one-stop routes from these cities to Riyadh/Jeddah — convenient options for southern and central India.
Seasonal capacity & peak months
Demand for Umrah flights peaks during Ramadan, the month of Dhu al-Hijjah (around Hajj season), and major Indian school holidays. Airlines typically add extra flights and capacity for these periods; booking early is essential to secure better fares and preferred timings. Keep an eye on airline announcements for additional winter or Ramadan schedules.
How to choose the right flight (practical checklist)
- Direct vs one-stop: Direct flights are faster and reduce transfer stress — ideal for elderly pilgrims. One-stop routes can be cheaper but require comfortable layover windows.
- Airport in Saudi Arabia: Decide whether to fly to Jeddah (JED) — main gateway to Makkah — or Madinah (MED) if your focus is the Prophet’s Mosque. Transfers between the two cities are widely available. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Flight time vs price: Compare overnight vs daytime options; overnight flights can save daylight hours but may cause fatigue upon arrival.
- Baggage & inclusions: Check included baggage, meal policy, and seat selection; Umrah travel often needs extra luggage for Ihram and family needs.
- Refund & change policy: Given visa or schedule uncertainty, pick tickets with reasonable change/refund terms where possible.
Top tips to find affordable Umrah airfares
- Book 2–4 months ahead for non-peak travel; for Ramadan or peak periods, reserve 4–6 months in advance.
- Be flexible on dates: shifting departure by 1–3 days often lowers fares significantly.
- Watch airline promos: carriers such as Flynas and Saudia periodically run discounted fares and Umrah-specific offers.
- Consider nearby airports: Sometimes flying from a neighbouring Indian hub (e.g., Mumbai vs Pune) yields cheaper options.
Health, documentation & in-flight considerations
Vaccination rules, health checks, and documentation remain important. Check Saudi public health guidance and airline requirements for vaccinations (including any meningitis / seasonal health advisories) before travel. The Prophet’s Mosque and Saudi health services have also expanded multilingual support and pilgrim assistance lines to help visitors on arrival.
Booking flow we recommend
- Choose tentative travel dates and preferred Saudi airport (Jeddah or Madinah).
- Compare airline schedules (Saudia, Flynas, other Gulf carriers, and announced direct services like IndiGo on selected routes).
- Reserve hotel & transport BEFORE applying for Umrah visa if rules require pre-booking.
- Apply for Umrah visa through licensed operator or the official Saudi platform; then confirm/issue final e-tickets once visa is granted.
When to contact UmrahOne.in
If you want help comparing flights, arranging halal-friendly transit, or bundling flights with an Umrah package (visa + hotels + transfers), our team can create tailored itineraries and monitor fare changes. We also keep updated with airline schedule additions and visa policy changes so you don’t have to.
Flynas flight schedules and India routes; Saudia flight deals and schedules; recent airline route announcements (including new direct Madinah services); and news about 2026 visa pre-booking rules and pilgrim services.