How to Perform Hajj During Eid al-Adha?
The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a very special act of worship that every Muslim who has the financial and physical means must perform at least once in their life. Every year during the Eid al-Adha period, millions of Muslims set off for Mecca. Pilgrims who set off from Türkiye usually land in the Saudi Arabian cities of Jeddah or Medina by plane. Jeddah is often preferred because it is the closest airport to Mecca. Those coming from Medina first visit the Masjid an-Nabawi and then go to Mecca.The Hajj ritual involves certain rituals that last for several days. It consists of important parts such as circumambulating the Kaaba, staying in Arafat, staying in Muzdalifah and Mina, stoning the devil and making sacrifices. These rituals require both physical and spiritual preparation. The Hajj journey is not just a journey; it is a deep spiritual experience filled with patience, intention and surrender.
In this article, we will explain step by step each stage of the journey for those who want to make the Hajj during Eid al-Adha.
How to Go to Hajj?
Going on a pilgrimage is a journey of spiritual calling. However, in order to fulfill this sacred act of worship, a certain process must be followed. There are three basic ways to go on a pilgrimage from Turkey: organization by the Presidency of Religious Affairs, pilgrimage tours with private tour companies, and buying a plane ticket and going individually. Each method has its advantages and points to consider.1. Going with the Religious Affairs Organization
Every year, those who are eligible to go on the hajj as a result of the draw organized by the Presidency of Religious Affairs are included in the mass programs organized by the Presidency of Religious Affairs. In this system:- Plane tickets are arranged collectively. Participants do not purchase their own tickets.
- Direct flights are generally provided from metropolitan cities such as Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir on the dates determined by the Religious Affairs Directorate.
- Landing in Jeddah or Medina. The order of prayers is planned according to the city visited.
- All transportation, including airport transfers and domestic flights, is organized by Diyanet.
2. Going with Private Hajj Tours
Another option is to join special hajj tours through authorized agencies. Private tour companies authorized by the Directorate of Religious Affairs also organize hajj tours. For those who register for these tours:- Airfare, accommodation and transportation are offered as a package.
- Flights are usually carried out by private airlines.
- Flights are made in groups and are usually planned to land at Jeddah or Medina airports.
3. Go by Buying Your Own Plane Ticket
Some pilgrims may prefer to go by purchasing their own plane tickets from reliable platforms such as Bilet.com. However, this only applies to those whose names are drawn. Because the Hajj visa cannot be obtained individually, it is issued through the Directorate of Religious Affairs or authorized tour companies. The person who purchases his/her own ticket must arrange his/her flight in accordance with the dates determined by the Directorate of Religious Affairs or the tour company he/she has chosen.Tip : As the Hajj season approaches, flights become crowded. Buying your ticket early provides a great advantage in terms of affordable prices and choosing the ideal time.
2025 Hajj Applications and Draw Process
Application Dates
The Presidency of Religious Affairs generally opens applications for the 2025 Hajj in the first months of the year. You can follow the current dates regarding the application process via e-Government.How to Apply?
- Log in to the e-Government system with your Turkish ID number.
- Make your application through the “Presidency of Religious Affairs / Hajj Procedures” section.
- Once you check and confirm your information, your application is complete.
Post-Draw Process
The final registration process begins for candidates whose names are drawn. At this stage, the type of accommodation (hotel, detached room, etc.) and flight dates are determined.How to Buy Flight Tickets for Hajj?
Flight Options to Mecca and Medina – Who Goes and How?
The Hajj journey is not only a spiritual preparation; it is also a serious logistical planning process. The issue of plane tickets is one of the most critical steps of this process. However, not everyone embarks on the Hajj journey in the same way. Therefore, let's examine in detail who travels and how and what options are available below.Individuals Traveling (Persons Who Have Received Visa Approval)
Individuals who have managed to obtain a Hajj visa (for example, as a special quota, as an attendant or as a companion) can purchase their own flight tickets. Flight details for these individuals are as follows:How to Buy Your Own Plane Ticket?
Pilgrims who will buy individual tickets should fly to the most suitable airports for Mecca or Medina. Here is a step-by-step guide:Airports you can go to:
- Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) : It is the closest airport to Mecca. It takes approximately 1.5-2 hours by road from Jeddah to Mecca.
- Medina Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED) : Suitable for those who want to go to Medina. If you are going to go to Mecca from here, a 4-5 hour road transfer should be planned.
Things to Consider When Buying a Ticket
- Prefer direct flights. Direct flights to Saudi Arabia are more frequent from cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir.
- Finalize your travel dates based on your visa validity period and hotel reservations.
- Try to keep your return date flexible. Due to the high traffic during the Hajj period, there may be delays in your return.
Where to Buy Plane Tickets?
Individual passengers who want to buy plane tickets for Hajj can easily compare the most suitable flights on Bilet.com and purchase their tickets securely.By visiting Bilet.com, you can see direct flight options from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir to Jeddah or Medina; and buy the most ideal ticket suitable for your travel dates in seconds.
Steps to Purchase Saudi Arabia Flight Tickets via Bilet.com
- Go to Bilet.com .
- Click on the Flight tab and enter your city in the "From" section and "Jeddah" or "Medina" in the "To" section.
- Select the week before Eid al-Adha 2025 as the date.
- Compare the listed flights and choose the one that fits your budget.
- Enter passenger information and complete the payment step.
Tips for Finding Affordable Tickets
- The earlier you buy your ticket, the better price you will get.
- Also check out flights departing from alternative cities.
- Connecting flights can sometimes be more convenient.
Things You Need to Know Before Going to Hajj
Required Documents
- Valid passport (with a minimum validity of 6 months)
- Hajj visa (organized by the Directorate of Religious Affairs after registration)
- Vaccination card (meningitis and COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory)
Health Checks and Vaccination
You should make an appointment with your family doctor or authorized health institutions to get your Hajj vaccinations. A health report is important, especially for elderly Hajj candidates.Hajj Suitcase: What You Need to Take
- Light and loose clothing
- Slippers, comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen, hat
- The Holy Quran, prayer books
- Soap, wet wipes, personal hygiene products
What Awaits You During the Hajj Journey?
- After the flight, a transfer is usually made to Mecca or Medina by bus.
- The groups are organized with guides, so there is no risk of getting lost or confused.
- Main places of worship : Masjid al-Haram (Kaaba), Masjid al-Nabawi, Arafat, Mina and Muzdalifah.
- Be careful to move in a group, as going off schedule could cause problems.
Advice for Those Traveling Alone
Going on the Hajj pilgrimage alone may seem daunting at first. But with the right preparation, the journey can be easier both spiritually and practically. The following suggestions, based on the experiences of someone who has previously embarked on this journey alone, can be your companion:It's Always Easier to Go With a Group
If you are going to perform Hajj for the first time, I definitely recommend that you join a group with the Directorate of Religious Affairs or a reliable tour organization. Traveling with guides makes airport procedures, accommodation, holy site visits and prayer arrangements much easier. The best part about going with a group is that you do not feel alone and you are informed at every stage.Tip : Hajj groups are usually divided into convoys. Make sure to take note of the convoy guide's phone number, he will be the first person you contact in case of any confusion.
Spiritual Preparation: Prepare Your Heart for the Journey
- Being prepared internally before the journey begins is as important as packing your suitcase.
- Read simple, understandable books about the meaning and stages of the Hajj ritual.
- Watch the experiences of people who have previously performed the Hajj on platforms such as YouTube.
- Take time for yourself, strengthen your intention and see this process as an act of worship.
Having a Plan When You're Alone Saves Lives
- Instead of carrying your documents (passport, vaccination card, visa document) with you, keep a backup copy digitally in the cloud.
- Write the name and phone number of the place you will be staying on a piece of paper and put it in your bag.
- Save the program given by the guide in your notebook or phone calendar, you won't be surprised.
- Be sure to learn in advance the place and time where you will wear the ihram outfit.
Patience Will Be Your Strongest Provision
The Hajj pilgrimage is a physical and emotional test as well as a spiritual elevation. There may be crowds, hot weather, and long waits. This is where patience and tolerance come into play.- Don't argue with anyone. Everyone has the same sacred purpose.
- Take it slow, don't rush yourself. This is not a race, this is a place of surrender.
- When you are tired, pray. Words are sometimes more powerful than the whole body.
Summary Recommendations Box
- Prepare spiritually with Hajj books and videos.
- Get involved in group organizations, you will not feel alone.
- Back up your documents digitally and carry them in your bag.
- Don't leave items like water, snacks, prayer books, etc. out of your reach.
- Be patient and tolerant, this journey is a process of surrender.
- Always keep your phone charged, join WhatsApp groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
"I don't have a passport, what should I do?"- You can apply for a passport by going to the provincial or district population directorate. It must be valid for at least 6 months.
- For candidates whose names are drawn, a collective visa application is made through the Diyanet organization. Individual applications cannot be made.
- Required documents (passport, ID, vaccination card)
- Ihram clothes
- Light snacks
- Personal health remedies
- For those traveling by plane, the ihram should be worn before crossing the miqat border. It is usually worn on the plane or at the airport.
- Those with advanced heart, respiratory or kidney diseases or those whose travel has not been recommended by a doctor should not travel.
- Women under the age of 45 cannot go on the hajj without their mahram (husband, father, brother, etc.). Women over the age of 45 can participate in groups with the Diyanet organization.
- Meningococcal (meningitis) vaccination is mandatory. In addition, flu and hepatitis vaccinations can be administered with a doctor's recommendation.
- Choose a lightweight, easy-to-carry suitcase. Spiritual preparations such as a sunshade umbrella, slippers, light clothing, rosary, prayer book should also be included.
- Yes, but you may need to purchase a valid line in Saudi Arabia. Alternatively, SIM cards with international usage features may be preferred.
- In addition to spiritual preparation, it is important to be physically fit. Regular walking, drinking plenty of water and resting are beneficial.