Rules for Carrying Zamzam Water on a Flight: A Complete Guide
Zamzam water is one of the most precious gifts a pilgrim can bring back from their journey to Makkah. It holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims, and many travelers wish to take it home to share with their loved ones. However, carrying Zamzam water on a flight comes with specific rules and regulations that must be followed to avoid issues at the airport.
If you’re planning to bring Zamzam water home after performing Umrah or Hajj, this guide will help you understand the airline policies, baggage rules, and the best ways to carry Zamzam safely on your flight.
1. Why Are There Restrictions on Carrying Zamzam Water?
Zamzam water is considered a holy and sacred water with great spiritual value, but airlines impose restrictions due to safety and security concerns. Since it is a liquid, it falls under aviation security regulations that control the transport of liquids on flights.
Additionally, Zamzam water bottles are pressurized and need special packaging to prevent leakage and damage to other luggage. For this reason, airlines and airport authorities have specific rules regarding the amount, packaging, and handling of Zamzam water during flights.
2. How Much Zamzam Water Can You Carry?
Most airlines allow one 5-liter bottle of Zamzam water per passenger as checked baggage. However, it is not included in your normal baggage allowance and must be packed separately according to airline requirements.
✅ General Rule:
- Allowed Quantity: One 5-liter bottle per passenger
- Where to Pack It: In checked baggage (not in hand luggage)
- Packaging Requirements: Must be in a sealed and approved container
📌 Important: Carrying more than the permitted limit may result in additional charges or confiscation of extra bottles at the airport.
2. How Much Zamzam Water Can You Carry?
Most airlines allow one 5-liter bottle of Zamzam water per passenger as checked baggage. However, it is not included in your normal baggage allowance and must be packed separately according to airline requirements.
✅ General Rule:
- Allowed Quantity: One 5-liter bottle per passenger
- Where to Pack It: In checked baggage (not in hand luggage)
- Packaging Requirements: Must be in a sealed and approved container
📌 Important: Carrying more than the permitted limit may result in additional charges or confiscation of extra bottles at the airport.
3. Airlines' Rules for Carrying Zamzam Water
Different airlines have slightly different policies when it comes to transporting Zamzam water. Below are some guidelines from major airlines operating Umrah and Hajj flights:
✈️ Saudia Airlines (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
- Passengers can carry one 5-liter Zamzam bottle for free.
- The bottle must be purchased from approved suppliers at King Abdulaziz International Airport or nearby locations.
- It must be properly sealed in a plastic bag.
✈️ Emirates Airlines
- Zamzam water is allowed in checked baggage only.
- The 5-liter bottle must be packed in a sealed plastic cover to prevent leakage.
- If Zamzam water is exceeding the baggage allowance, excess baggage charges may apply.
✈️ Flydubai
- Only one 5-liter Zamzam bottle per passenger is allowed.
- The bottle must be in checked baggage and properly packaged.
✈️ Air Arabia
- Allows one 5-liter Zamzam bottle per passenger.
- The water must be properly packed in a sealed container and checked in separately.
📌 Tip: Always check with your airline before your flight, as policies may change.
4. Can You Carry Zamzam Water in Hand Luggage?
No, Zamzam water is not allowed in hand luggage. Since it exceeds the 100ml liquid restriction for cabin baggage, it must be placed in checked luggage.
📌 Security Tip: If you try to carry Zamzam water in your carry-on bag, it will be confiscated at airport security checkpoints.
5. Where to Buy Zamzam Water for Travel?
To ensure compliance with airline regulations, always purchase Zamzam water from official and approved sellers.
✅ Approved Locations:
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) – Official Zamzam water selling points
- Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Madinah)
- Licensed Stores Near Masjid al-Haram
- Authorized Hajj & Umrah Travel Agencies
📌 Avoid buying from street vendors as the water may not be genuine or properly packaged.
6. How to Pack Zamzam Water for Travel?
To avoid spills and damage, it is essential to pack Zamzam water correctly before checking it in.
✅ Steps to Pack Zamzam Water for Your Flight:
- Use Official Sealed Bottles – Always buy from official suppliers to ensure the bottle is leak-proof and approved.
- Keep It in the Original Packaging – Airlines do not accept repackaged or unsealed Zamzam bottles.
- Use Bubble Wrap – To prevent breakage, wrap the bottle in bubble wrap or a protective bag.
- Place It in a Strong Plastic Bag – Some airlines provide special plastic covers for added protection.
- Check Airline-Specific Rules – Some airlines have specific labels that must be attached to the bottle.
📌 Warning: Do not mix Zamzam water with other liquids in your checked baggage, as leakage may damage your belongings.
7. What Happens if You Carry Extra Zamzam Water?
If you bring more than the allowed limit of 5 liters per passenger, airlines may:
❌ Charge an extra baggage fee
❌ Ask you to leave the extra bottles behind
❌ Refuse check-in until excess weight is adjusted
📌 Tip: If you want to bring more Zamzam water for family or friends, ask another traveler to carry a bottle for you within their limit.
8. What to Do If Zamzam Water Leaks in Your Baggage?
Sometimes, despite careful packing, Zamzam water bottles may leak due to pressure changes during the flight.
✅ Precautionary Measures:
- Double-wrap the bottle in a plastic bag
- Place it inside a waterproof travel pouch
- Inform baggage handlers that your luggage contains a liquid container
📌 If your Zamzam water leaks, check with your airline’s baggage service desk for assistance.
9. Can You Ship Zamzam Water Instead of Carrying It?
Yes, some airlines and courier services allow pilgrims to ship Zamzam water separately instead of carrying it on a flight.
✅ Options for Shipping Zamzam Water:
- Cargo Services at Jeddah or Madinah Airports
- Hajj & Umrah Travel Agencies Offering Shipping Services
- International Couriers (DHL, FedEx, etc.)
📌 Note: Shipping costs may be higher than carrying it as part of your luggage.
Final Thoughts
Carrying Zamzam water on a flight is a cherished tradition for many travelers, but it’s essential to follow airline rules to avoid problems at the airport.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Each passenger is allowed one 5-liter Zamzam bottle in checked baggage.
- Hand luggage is not allowed to carry Zamzam water.
- Purchase from official suppliers to meet airline packaging requirements.
- Check with your airline for any specific rules before your flight.
By planning ahead and following these guidelines, you can bring home Zamzam water safely and smoothly without any hassle.
May Allah bless your journey and accept your Umrah or Hajj. Ameen! 🤲