Bringing Zamzam water home is the highlight for every pilgrim. However, strict rules apply at airports.
The 5-Litre Rule
- Size: Only the official 5 Litre boxed bottle is allowed. 10L bottles are no longer permitted on flights.
- Packaging: It must be the official vacuum-sealed cardboard box distributed by the King Abdullah Zamzam Water Project.
Who Can Take Zamzam?
- Umrah/Hajj Visa: Guaranteed allowance (1 bottle per passport).
- Tourist Visa: Rules fluctuate. Officially, Zamzam is for pilgrims. However, many tourists successfully check it in. Check with your airline specifically. Some airlines (like Saudi, Flynas) are more lenient than foreign carriers.
Where to Buy?
DO NOT buy from street vendors in Makkah. They often sell fake or refilled water.
- Jeddah / Madinah Airport (Best Option):
- There are authorized kiosks outside the terminal or near check-in.
- Price: Approx 8.5 - 15 SAR (varies slightly).
- You show your passport/visa, pay, and they give you the box.
- Authorized Supermarkets (Bin Dawood): Sometimes stock the official boxes, but hauling them to the airport is a hassle.
Checking In
Zamzam is usually treated as a separate free baggage on Saudi airlines. It goes on a dedicated conveyor belt for liquids.
- Tip: Write your name clearly on the box with a marker. All boxes look identical!
