King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA), also known as Jeddah Airport (JED), is a major gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims travelling to Makkah and Madinah. The airport serves domestic and international flights through several passenger terminal facilities.
These include Terminal 1, the North Terminal, the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex, and the newly operational Terminal 4. Each facility has different airline assignments, passenger services, and transport arrangements.
Terminal 4 began phased operations on September 27, 2026. Since then, several airlines have transferred between terminals. This guide explains the terminals, announced airline transfers, airport facilities, arrival procedures, and transport options for pilgrims.
Important: Always confirm your flight’s arrival terminal with your airline before arranging airport pickup. Airline assignments can change during the airport’s transition programme.
Understanding Jeddah Airport Terminals
King Abdulaziz International Airport is located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It serves travellers visiting Makkah for Umrah and Hajj, as well as passengers travelling to Madinah and other destinations.
The four terminal facilities relevant to passengers are:
| Terminal | Main function |
|---|---|
| Terminal 1 (T1) | Most domestic and international airline operations |
| North Terminal (N) | Selected international operations during the terminal transition |
| Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex (H) | Pilgrimage-related operations and selected international flights |
| Terminal 4 (T4) | Redeveloped international terminal supporting additional passenger capacity |
The former South Terminal has been redeveloped as Terminal 4. Its phased opening began on September 27, 2026.
Terminals occupy separate airport areas, so passengers should plan transport when changing terminals. Do not assume that you can walk between terminal buildings.
Terminal 1 at Jeddah Airport
Terminal 1 is the airport’s main passenger terminal for most domestic and international airlines. It provides check-in counters, baggage services, immigration facilities, restaurants, shops, prayer rooms, and passenger assistance.
One important feature is its direct connection to the Haramain High-Speed Railway station. Passengers can use the railway to travel towards Makkah or Madinah, subject to the available train schedule.
Which airlines use Terminal 1?
Terminal 1 has historically served Saudi carriers and major international airlines. These include Saudia, flynas, flyadeal, Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and Gulf Air.
This is a historical reference list, not a complete or verified current airline roster. The 2026 transition programme includes selected airline transfers from Terminal 1 and other terminal facilities.
Check the airline’s current flight information before travelling.
North Terminal at Jeddah Airport
The North Terminal is an older passenger facility that historically served many international airlines. It has passenger processing facilities, baggage collection areas, waiting spaces, and designated pickup and drop-off areas.
Its airline allocation is changing as international carriers transfer to Terminal 4 and the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex.
Which airlines use the North Terminal?
Older airport guides list airlines such as Pakistan International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air India, EgyptAir, and Wizz Air among carriers associated with the North Terminal.
However, these assignments should not be treated as current. Wizz Air was included in the initial Terminal 4 transfer programme, and other airlines have also been scheduled to move.
The remaining North Terminal airline roster requires current verification. Check your flight booking or contact the airline before arranging transport.
Hajj Terminal at Jeddah Airport
The Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex is designed to support pilgrimage-related passenger operations. Its distinctive tent-style roof is one of the airport’s most recognisable features.
The complex accommodates organised passenger groups and large numbers of pilgrims, particularly during Hajj operations. It also handles selected international flights according to airline assignments and operational requirements.
Airlines moving to the Hajj Terminal
Jeddah Airports announced a separate transfer programme involving seven airlines moving from the North Terminal to the Hajj and Umrah Terminal during October 2026.
| Airline | Announced transfer date |
|---|---|
| Tarco Aviation | October 1, 2026 |
| Yemenia | October 8, 2026 |
| SCAT Airlines | October 10, 2026 |
| Uzbekistan Airways | October 12, 2026 |
| Daallo Airlines | October 13, 2026 |
| Somon Air | October 14, 2026 |
| Sudan Airways | October 15, 2026 |
These dates reflect the published transition schedule. They do not independently confirm that every transfer was completed as planned or that arrivals and departures changed simultaneously.
Passengers should verify their specific flight’s terminal before travelling.
Facilities for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims
The complex supports organised pilgrim groups and provides passenger waiting areas, prayer facilities, baggage services, medical assistance, and transport arrangements.
KAIA also lists Manasik Hotel at the Hajj Terminal, with 123 rooms. Availability and access conditions should be checked directly with the hotel.
Not every Hajj or Umrah pilgrim arrives through this complex. The airline and flight assignment determine the correct terminal.
Terminal 4 at Jeddah Airport
Terminal 4 is the redeveloped former South Terminal. It began phased operations on September 27, 2026, as part of the airport’s programme to improve operational efficiency and accommodate growing passenger demand.
Terminal 4 specifications
| Feature | Official information |
|---|---|
| Terminal area | 97,000 square metres |
| Annual passenger capacity | Up to 15 million passengers |
| Check-in counters | 62 |
| Passport control counters | 66 |
| Baggage handling | Advanced baggage-handling system |
| Operational launch | September 27, 2026, phased opening |
Source: Official KAIA Terminal 4 guide.
Which airlines transferred to Terminal 4?
The announced opening programme included the following transfers:
| Airline | Announced transfer date |
|---|---|
| Wizz Air | September 27, 2026 |
| AJet | September 27, 2026 |
| SalamAir | September 27, 2026 |
| Fly Jinnah | September 28, 2026 |
| Nesma Airlines | September 28, 2026 |
| Akasa Air | September 29, 2026 |
| SyrianAir | October 1, 2026 |
| Pegasus Airlines | October 1, 2026 |
| Azerbaijan Airlines | October 3, 2026 |
| Tunisair | October 3, 2026 |
| Air Cairo | October 11, 2026 |
Air Cairo’s own notice confirms that its Jeddah arrivals and departures transferred to Terminal 4 from October 11, 2026. The airline list above combines the announced opening schedule with this later airline-specific notice.
These dates should not be treated as a complete live roster. Confirm current flight assignments before publishing terminal-specific pickup instructions.
Terminal 1 vs North Terminal vs Hajj Terminal vs Terminal 4
| Feature | Terminal 1 | North Terminal | Hajj and Umrah Terminal | Terminal 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main role | Domestic and international operations | Selected international operations during transition | Pilgrimage-related and selected international operations | Additional international passenger capacity |
| Current status | Operational | Airline transfers underway | Operational with changing assignments | Phased operations started September 2026 |
| Haramain railway | Direct station connection | Transfer required | Transfer required | Transfer required |
| Airline list | Check current flight | Check current flight | Check current flight | Check current flight |
The terminals have different operational roles. Pilgrims should not assume their terminal based on nationality, destination, or pilgrimage purpose.
Arrival Process for Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims
After landing at Jeddah Airport, international passengers generally complete these steps:
Follow arrival signs to immigration.
Present the required travel documents.
Collect checked baggage from the assigned carousel.
Clear customs and follow airport instructions.
Proceed to the designated pickup or meeting point.
Continue to your hotel in Makkah or Madinah.
Procedures may vary by airline, terminal, nationality, visa arrangements, and participation in the Makkah Route Initiative.
Keep your passport, hotel address, booking confirmation, and driver contact details accessible.
Terminal Transfers at Jeddah Airport
The airport terminals are located in separate areas. Passengers connecting between terminals should arrange transport and allow enough time for immigration, baggage collection, and check-in.
KAIA’s passenger guide lists a paid shuttle service costing SAR 23 per person, including VAT. Official airport taxis and ride-hailing services are also options.
The airport recommends allowing at least four to six hours for connections involving different terminals or airlines. This is particularly important for separate-ticket journeys.
Check the latest KAIA passenger guide before travelling, as transport arrangements and airline assignments may change.
Transport from Jeddah Airport to Makkah
Pilgrims can travel from Jeddah Airport to Makkah by private taxi, airport taxi, ride-hailing service, bus, or Haramain High-Speed Railway.
The best option depends on your budget, luggage, group size, and hotel location.
Private taxi from Jeddah Airport to Makkah
A private taxi offers direct road transport to your hotel. It can be convenient for families, elderly travellers, and groups carrying several suitcases.
Bakkah Transport provides private transport for pilgrims travelling between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah. Visit the Jeddah to Makkah Taxi service to review available arrangements.
Confirm your arrival terminal, passenger count, luggage quantity, pickup instructions, and fare before booking.
Haramain High-Speed Railway
The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Jeddah Airport with Makkah and Madinah. Its airport station is directly connected to Terminal 1.
Passengers arriving at Terminal 4, the North Terminal, or the Hajj and Umrah Terminal should allow additional time to reach Terminal 1 if they plan to use the train.
Check train schedules, ticket availability, luggage conditions, and onward transport before travelling.
Luggage and Zamzam Water Rules
Pilgrims should check their airline’s baggage allowance before arriving at the airport. Weight limits, baggage dimensions, and excess baggage charges vary by airline and ticket.
Use secure luggage with identification tags. Avoid ropes and loose wrapping that can interfere with baggage handling.
KAIA advises passengers to confirm Zamzam water rules with their airline. The airport guide notes that airlines generally permit up to five litres in checked luggage, subject to the airline’s conditions. Confirm packaging and purchase requirements before departure.
Important Tips for First-Time Umrah and Hajj Pilgrims
First-time pilgrims arriving at King Abdulaziz International Airport should confirm their airline terminal before travel because the airport has separate terminal areas. Passports, visas, hotel bookings, and transport details should remain easily accessible during the journey.
Pilgrims should also understand Ihram Rules before reaching the Miqat area to avoid problems during Umrah travel. Preparing Ihram before arrival helps pilgrims continue their spiritual journey more smoothly.
Official taxis, train services, and pre-booked airport transfers are safer than unauthorised drivers outside the airport. During busy Hajj and Umrah seasons, travellers should allow extra time for immigration, baggage collection, and transport arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which terminal is used for Umrah pilgrims at Jeddah Airport?
Umrah pilgrims may arrive at Terminal 1, the North Terminal, the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex, or Terminal 4. The correct terminal depends on the airline and flight assignment.
Is Terminal 4 open at Jeddah Airport?
Yes. Terminal 4 began phased operations on September 27, 2026. Airline transfers have continued according to the published transition programme.
Which airlines moved to Terminal 4?
The initial transfers included Wizz Air, AJet, SalamAir, Fly Jinnah, Nesma Airlines, Akasa Air, SyrianAir, Pegasus Airlines, Azerbaijan Airlines, and Tunisair. Air Cairo separately announced its transfer from October 11, 2026.
Which airlines are moving to the Hajj and Umrah Terminal?
The announced October schedule included Tarco Aviation, Yemenia, SCAT Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, Daallo Airlines, Somon Air, and Sudan Airways. Confirm the current terminal with your airline.
Can pilgrims walk between Jeddah Airport terminals?
Do not assume that walking between terminals is possible. Use the airport’s designated transfer services, official taxis, or available ride-hailing options.
Which terminal connects directly to the Haramain train station?
Terminal 1 has a direct connection to the Haramain High-Speed Railway station.
How can I confirm my Jeddah Airport terminal?
Check your airline booking, contact your airline, or use the official KAIA website. Confirm the terminal shortly before travelling.
Conclusion
King Abdulaziz International Airport serves millions of travellers visiting Saudi Arabia, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrims travelling to Makkah and Madinah.
Understanding Terminal 1, the North Terminal, the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex, and Terminal 4 helps travellers prepare for arrival and departure. Recent airline transfers mean that older terminal information may no longer be accurate.
Always verify your airline’s current terminal, follow airport instructions, and arrange suitable transport before arrival.
For direct road transport to Makkah, explore Bakkah Transport’s Jeddah to Makkah Taxi service and confirm your pickup arrangements in advance.
