Hajj is one of the most complex and time-sensitive journeys in the world, as millions of pilgrims converge in Saudi Arabia within a short period. For Egyptian pilgrim groups, a charter flight from Cairo to Saudi Arabia provides the most integrated system for organizing so many individuals in a short time span.
With the Hajj set to begin in late May 2026, Hajj organizers, tour operators, and other authorities are working to meet the demand. Private jet providers like Icarus Jet play a key role by enabling aircraft accessibility for large travel groups.
Why group charter works best for Hajj
Organizing the trip of a large number of Hajj passengers requires guaranteed seating, predictable timing, as well as the ability to control the sequence of events. Using commercial flights offers less flexibility, especially during the peak Hajj rush, as the group may be split across multiple flights or pay higher airfare.
Icarus Jet offers a dedicated group charter, which means the entire delegation will be on one plane, so travel will be coordinated with ground handlers, hotels, and arrival times as required. There will also be a unified handling of their luggage, check-in procedures, and processing through Cairo and Jeddah.
Aircraft options available in Cairo for Hajj 2026
Some aircraft are already positioned in Cairo and will system-charter as a group to Jeddah. With regard to the available aircraft for this year’s 2026 season, the Boeing 737 and Boeing 777-200 will be used.
Boeing 737 | Passenger capacity: 147
An equally important aspect of this deal is Boeing’s consideration of B737 as the most suitable aircraft for mid-scale group assignments that do not require the capabilities of a wide-body aircraft. It can accommodate up to 147 passengers and has enough range to fly from Cairo to Jeddah nonstop.
For Hajj travel in 2026, the cost of a Boeing 737 is USD 145,000 for one-way flights and USD 280,000 for round-trip flights. With its economic layout, this aircraft supports high-density journeys, as boarding will be easier.
Boeing 777-200 | Passenger capacity: 280
Boeing’s 777-200 offers one of the most cost-effective solutions for long-haul missions. With a seating capacity of up to 280 passengers, the aircraft will allow almost twice as many people as in Boeing’s 737 airplane to travel together.
The roundtrip cost on a Boeing 777-200 during Hajj in 2026 is USD 220,000, making it a cost-effective solution for Hajj organizers, organizations, and governmental bodies that require transport services for large groups of people.
Cairo airports for group charters
Although many Cairo aviation references involve private jets or General Aviation terminals, Hajj group charters usually use full-service international terminals capable of processing wide-body aircraft and handling large volumes of passengers.
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Cairo International Airport is still the main hub for Hajj charter flights. Cairo International Airport, situated near Heliopolis, features multiple passenger terminals, sufficient runways, and the necessary infrastructure for B737/B777 aircraft. It is the second busiest airport in Africa. Cairo Airport has always been Egypt’s primary entry point for Hajj flights.
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Sphinx International, located near 6th of October, is becoming increasingly relevant for charter flights. However, due to the nature of Hajj group movements, most large-capacity charter flights continue to operate from Cairo International. SPX will still allow some departures, depending on aircraft type, slot availability, and operator requirements, particularly for smaller aircraft.
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Arrival airport in Jeddah
King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED)
The pilgrims arriving from Cairo will alight at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, the nearest large airport to Mecca. This airport is situated about 19 kilometers from the city of Jeddah and approximately 75 kilometers from Mecca.
There is also a Hajj Terminal that handles the high volume of passengers that come during the peak. This takes care of customs clearance, bus staging, as well as passenger flow. This terminal, however, is designed to handle large passenger volumes, enabling its charter flights to operate efficiently on the busiest days.
Required documentation
Although Saudi Arabia changes its rules every year, some documentation required for Hajj journeys every year remains the same. A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of travel is compulsory for all travelers. A Hajj visa is required for all pilgrims and must be arranged with a registered Hajj operator or travel agency in Egypt.
Group organizers will also need to guarantee that passenger details are entered early so that necessary manifests, permits, and compliance forms are processed on time. Immunization requirements would typically include boosters for meningococcal ACWY and flu, although updates will be necessary as guidance for 2026 nears.
Booking timeline for Hajj group charter flights
Departures from Cairo always follow a defined planning process. Preliminary talks and aircraft selection will take place towards the end of 2025 as the group size and desired dates emerge. By the first quarter of 2026, contracts for air transport and ground arrangements will be finalized. By April, passenger manifests, visas, and seating allocation will be ready, enabling the final stage of preparations.
By the end of May 2026, charter flights will begin running between Cairo and Jeddah, as per the movement schedule agreed with Saudi authorities. Returning flights will depend on the group’s Hajj schedule, with the operators handling the exact timing based on hotel departures and ground transportation.
Holy Zamzam water on group charters
Many pilgrims would like to repatriate Zamzam water, so charter schemes offer flexibility. Indeed, passengers traveling through group charters are not prohibited from carrying Zamzam water, provided they comply with the operator’s requirements and security regulations regarding packing. Charter companies usually arrange ground handling agencies so that sealed containers can be accepted and processed accordingly.
Charter flights as the preferred method of travel for large groups
Hajj is a time-sensitive activity, with coordination being more important than any other aspect. Group charters help ensure that all pilgrims travel together, unlike on scheduled flights, where they might remain separated. At the same time, they can choose their travel time based on the availability of hotels and transport, as well as the expected number of devotees at the Hajj terminal in Jeddah.
Financial predictability of charter rates is another strength. Unlike buying hundreds of individual air tickets, most likely at surge pricing, a group gets a fixed rate for the entire plane. Finally, flexibility in handling luggage, religious objects, and other requirements associated with Hajj journeys is greater with group charters. Working with an experienced group charter provider like Icarus Jet is paramount for a seamless flight for the entire travel group.
FAQs
1. What aircraft are available for group charter from Cairo?
Boeing 737 with seating capacity of 147 and Boeing 777-200 with seating capacity of 280.
2. What is the cost of the Boeing 737 charter?
Cairo to Jeddah: USD 145,000 one-way, USD 280,000 round-trip.
3. What is the cost of the Boeing 777-200 charter?
USD 220,000 for a round trip.
4.Can pilgrims carry Zamzam water on chartered flights?
Yes, passengers traveling on group charters can transport Zamzam water in line with each operator’s guidelines.
5.Is a Hajj visa required?
Yes. Each pilgrim must acquire their Hajj visa via an authorized operator.
