Types of Hajj and Package Options Explained: 14 to 41 Days with Maktab Categories
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Before booking your Hajj package, it’s essential to understand the types of Hajj, the duration options, and the facilities offered through different Maktab categories. These decisions shape your entire experience — from rituals to travel to accommodation.
Whether you’re a first-timer or planning for family, this post will simplify your choices.
🕋 1. Types of Hajj (According to Fiqh)
There are three types of Hajj, and knowing the difference helps you choose what suits you best:
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| Your travel plan play pivotal role in choosing the type of Hajj |
➤ Hajj Tamattu (Most Common for Expats)
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Perform Umrah first the very first day when you land, then exit Ihram and re-enter Ihram for Hajj on 8th Dhul Hijjah.
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It requires two separate Ihrams and gives the flexibility to stay in your own clothes between Hajj and Umrah.
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Most popular among international pilgrims due to package convenience.
➤ Hajj Qiran (For Advanced or Early Arrivals)
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Perform Umrah and Hajj together, without exiting Ihram in between.
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Requires one long period in Ihram — it makes it physically tougher.
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Ideal for those arriving early or with longer stays.
➤ Hajj Ifrad (Mainly for Locals)
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Perform only Hajj (no Umrah) in a single Ihram.
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Common among residents of Saudi Arabia.
🧳 2. Package Durations – What Suits You?
Hajj packages are usually divided into 3 major categories:
✅ 14 to 18 Days – Express Packages
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For those short on time.
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Arrive close to Hajj days (6th–7th Dhul Hijjah).
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Under this package pilgrims only get 2-3 days to visit Madinah or extended Haram time.
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Good for busy professionals but can be physically demanding due to tight schedule.
✅ 21 to 30 Days – Balanced Packages
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Includes time in Makkah before and after Hajj.
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Often includes Madinah visit and rest days post-Hajj.
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Ideal for those who want a complete experience without being overwhelmed.
✅ 35 to 41 Days – Full Duration Packages
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Best for seniors, families, or those who want a relaxed spiritual journey.
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More time to acclimate, attend lectures, and bond with the group.
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Includes Madinah, early arrival in Makkah, and extra days after Hajj rituals.
🏕️ 3. Maktab Categories – What’s the Difference?
The Maktab (camp) is your assigned group/tent in Mina and Arafat. It directly affects your facilities.
✳️ Maktab Categories (Basic to VIP):
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Category D – Economy: Long Walk to Jamarat (more then 5km), shared bathrooms, limited meals, limited transport, heavily crowded tents and sometimes tents in Mina are without cooler or fan. Due to lack of transport and large sums of pilgrims, pilgrims have to walk all the way from Arafat to Muzdalifah to Jamarat.
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Category C – Mid-Range: Closer to Jamarat (3km to 5km), better tents which must have cooler, more organized, better meals & sanitary conditions. Greater number of toilets.
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| Cooler system in Maktab-C |
Category B/A – Premium: Air-conditioned tents, shorter distances, better meals, private washrooms and everyone gets sofa cum bed in Mina. Maktab B is usually accompanied with their dedicated Bus so they do not have to rely on public transport provided by the Saudi Govt.
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| Maktab B Tent in Mina |
VIP Maktab: Closest to Jamarat, full AC, private toilets, lounge-style dining (often for govt or high-end groups).
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| Jamarat across the VIP Maktab |
🔍 Key Takeaways Before Booking:
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Choose your Hajj type based on physical strength, travel schedule, and fiqh preference.
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Select a package that matches your stamina, time availability, and spiritual goals.
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Don’t ignore Maktab proximity — it affects your ease during Rami (stone-pelting days).
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Ask your agent or group leader about distance to Jamarat, tent quality, and crowd size.
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