Difference Between Shifting & Non-Shifting Hajj Packages

Hajj is a commitment for every Muslim who is physically fit, mentally sane and capable of bearing the cost of the sacred journey. Annually, more than 2 million Muslims from various parts of the world gather in Makkah to perform the holy pilgrimage of Hajj, considered one of the largest gatherings of humanity in the world.

It is a chance to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT), wipe away sins and start a new life. If you are lucky enough to travel to Makkah to perform Hajj, it is your responsibility to look for a perfect Hajj package for yourself or for your family. There are two types of Hajj packages available: Shifting and Non-shifting Hajj packages.

It is important to decide beforehand which Hajj package would be suitable for you; shifting or non-shifting, which are usually the two kinds of Hajj packages offered by different travel agencies across the world. Before choosing any one of these packages, one must understand the two categories and the basic difference between both of them.

In this blog, we will understand the difference between Shifting and Non-shifting Hajj packages, their benefits and what you should choose.​​​​​​​

Understanding The Main Difference Between Shifting and Non-Shifting Hajj Packages

Many people get confused between these two Hajj packages and find it difficult to determine which option suits them best. The main difference between shifting and non-shifting Hajj packages is whether pilgrims are required to change accommodation during the Hajj days or stay in the same hotel throughout the pilgrimage.

In shifting Hajj packages, pilgrims are temporarily relocated to accommodations like Aziziyah apartments during the peak Hajj period. In non-shifting Hajj packages, pilgrims generally remain in the same hotel near Haram for the entire stay without changing accommodation.

Both package types have their own advantages depending on comfort preferences, budget and physical ability. Now let’s discuss the two types of Hajj packages in depth.

What is a Shifting Hajj Package?

In shifting Hajj packages, pilgrims are moved away from the Masjid al-Haram during the peak Hajj season, residing in faraway hotels or apartments, also called Aziziyah apartments. Once the Hajj is over, pilgrims are moved to the accommodations near the Haram. Shifting Hajj Packages are also known as Aziziyah Hajj packages.

For instance, when pilgrims leave for Hajj from the UK, after reaching Jeddah, they are shifted to apartments named Aziziyah located in the suburbs of Makkah. One of the things to do in Aziziyah is to attend the Hajj workshops and training classes to prepare for Hajj.

Pilgrims stay in Aziziya for about 5 to 6 days with a shuttle service to Haram. On 7th Dhul Hijjah, the group is moved to Mina for five days of Hajj. After completing the Hajj, pilgrims come back to the apartments and stay there for three more days.

Later, they are moved to the hotels close to Haram and stay there for the number of days allocated to their group, after which most of them depart for Madinah.

Benefits of Shifting Hajj Packages

​​​​​​​Most pilgrims opt for cheap shifting Hajj packages, which prove to be advantageous for the following reasons:

• It costs much less for pilgrims. The prices of the hotels close to the Two Holy Mosques during the Hajj days increase significantly. Therefore, a Hajj package that includes a third location like Aziziyah during that overly expensive period means cheaper packages for the pilgrims.
• Accommodation near Haram during the Hajj days (8th – 13th Dhul Hijjah) means paid but unused residency since every pilgrim is required to reside in Mina for 5 to 6 days. Pilgrims on a non-shifting package will be paying huge money for the hotels they are not going to stay in during that period. So it makes sense not to pay for unused residency by choosing a shifting package.
• Access to the hotel and extra facilities in the shifting Hajj packages during the Hajj days. Facilities in Mina are very basic and crowded, so Aziziyah hotels provide an alternative to the pilgrims on a shifting package to access to these hotels. However, you must keep in mind that staying in Mina is a part of the Hajj rituals, and the access to the hotel is only to lessen some of the pressure that pilgrims face for refreshment.
• It offers an opportunity to prepare for the Hajj. To break away from the exhaustion of Makkah, many pilgrims prefer to stay in Aziziyah just before Hajj in order to prepare themselves physically and mentally for the marathon-like Hajj rites.
• Pilgrims usually utilise this time by attending Hajj workshops and training sessions organised by their Hajj operators. Hajj workshops include training on the various challenges that pilgrims might face during the five days of Hajj and ways to handle them.
• A religious guide helps them to understand how to achieve the goal of building a meaningful relationship with Allah (SWT).
• Transport is available at all times for visits to Masjid Al-Haram, which is approximately 3 miles away. Pilgrims who want to visit the Holy Mosque can take a short trip via cabs and shuttle services.

What is a Non-Shifting Hajj Package?

​​​​​​​A non-shifting Hajj package allows pilgrims to stay in the same hotel or accommodation throughout most of their Hajj journey without relocating to Aziziyah apartments during the peak Hajj days.

These packages are generally preferred by elderly pilgrims, families with children and those looking for greater convenience, comfort and stability during the physically demanding days of Hajj.

Although pilgrims still move to Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah for the Hajj rituals, they do not usually have to repeatedly shift their main accommodation or luggage between multiple hotels.

Advantages of Non-Shifting Hajj Packages

• Since pilgrims are close to the Haram, they can easily visit the Grand Mosque to perform Tawaf and daily prayers. However, the prices of non-shifting Hajj packages are higher.
• Pilgrims have access to their hotel rooms even during the Hajj days. They do not have to transfer their luggage to Aziziyah, which is far away from the Haram. Travelling between Aziziyah and Haram could be hectic in the harsh weather.

Which Hajj Package Should You Choose?

​​​​​​​Choosing between shifting and non-shifting Hajj packages depends entirely on your budget, comfort preference and physical condition.

A shifting Hajj package may be suitable if:

• You want a more affordable Hajj option.
• You are physically fit and flexible.
• You are comfortable with accommodation changes.

A non-shifting Hajj package may be better if:

• You prefer comfort and convenience.
• You are travelling with elderly family members or children.
• You want a less physically demanding experience.
• Budget is not your primary concern.

Important Things To Ask Before Booking A Hajj Package

Before finalising your Hajj package, always ask your Hajj operator:

• How many times will accommodation change
• Distance of the hotels from Masjid al-Haram
• Whether luggage transfer is included
• What transport services are provided during the shifting
• Whether all hotel arrangements are confirmed in writing

This helps avoid confusion later and allows pilgrims to prepare properly for their sacred journey.​​​​​​​

Final Wordings

Hajj is a journey of a lifetime, and every Muslim who is capable should embark on the sacred journey. Both shifting and non-shifting Hajj packages offer valuable experiences and serve different types of pilgrims.  Shifting Hajj packages are practical and more budget-friendly, while non-shifting packages provide comfort and ease throughout the sacred journey.

At Itimaar, we help UK pilgrims choose the most suitable Hajj package based on their comfort, budget and travel needs. Our experienced team provides complete guidance, accommodation support and practical assistance to help make your sacred journey smooth, organised and spiritually fulfilling.

If you are planning for Hajj 2026, consult a trusted Hajj travel operator early and choose the package that best supports your pilgrimage goals. Book your Hajj tour package to get attractive offers and discounts.​​​​​​​​