Malaysian Haj pilgrims have been warned that carrying excessive quantities of Zamzam water risks having their luggage detained or opened for inspection by Saudi authorities [1, 2]. Mohd Ridzuan Yusoff highlighted that some pilgrims try to hide additional Zamzam water by wrapping it in various materials, but screening equipment remains capable of detecting its contents. "Some believe Zamzam water can be hidden by wrapping it in various materials, but once the luggage goes through the screening process, its contents can still be detected. When this happens, the luggage will be opened by the authorities for inspection, and the items inside may not be repacked as they were originally," he said [1, 2].
Authorities caution that if luggage is opened, personal belongings may be displaced or damaged, creating further problems for pilgrims [1, 2]. Pilgrims are advised to comply with existing regulations and avoid taking unnecessary risks by attempting to bring home additional Zamzam water [1, 2].
The maximum baggage allowance per pilgrim is 30 kilograms, whether split into one or two bags. "For example, one bag weighing 12kg and another 18kg is permitted, provided the combined weight does not exceed 30kg," Mohd Ridzuan Yusoff explained [1].
Since 2013, the City Check-In (CCI) operation has allowed Malaysian pilgrims to check in their luggage 48 hours before departure at their accommodations in Makkah. This service, provided by Lembaga Tabung Haji and airlines, helps ease travel burdens [1, 2]. "Pilgrims only need to bring themselves and permitted essential items when heading to the airport. This also helps reduce their burden after completing the haj pilgrimage," Ridzuan said [2].
Recent warnings issued in June 2026 by Mohd Ridzuan Yusoff at the Makkah CCI operation reiterate adherence to baggage rules and discourage attempts to conceal Zamzam water due to heightened inspection risks [1, 2].
