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Planning for the Umrah Journey


There are a few different ways to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. You can fly, take a cruise, or drive. The best way for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences.


You can go for Umrah on your own, with a group, or with your family.
If you are traveling with a group, you will have the benefit of having
someone to share your experiences with and to meet new people.
However, if you are traveling on your own or with your family, you will
have more freedom to do things at your own pace and to tailor the journey to your interests.


The minimum time required to perform Umrah is half a day. However, most people stay for 3-7 days to allow time for travel, accommodation, and sightseeing. If you are traveling from a long distance, you may want to stay longer to give yourself more time to adjust to the time difference, rest, and perform multiple Umrahs.


There [SD1] are many time frames to consider when deciding to perform Umrah, such as the peak season (Ramadan), the shoulder season (typically from October to December and then January to Pre-Ramdan), and the low season (summer months). Among these seasons, the optimal time to travel and perform Umrah is the shoulder season when there are lesser crowds and the weather is pleasant. However, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year.
There are many time frames to consider when deciding to perform Umrah, such as the peak season (Ramadan), the shoulder season (typically from October to December and then January to Pre-Ramdan), and the low season (summer months). Among these seasons, the optimal time to travel and perform Umrah is the shoulder season when there are lesser crowds and the weather is good. However, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. [SD1] [SD1]

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Makkah and Madinah, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Check out the accommodation options here (LINK)

Planning my stay in Makkah and Madinah

The preferred option for the majority of our customers is to start the journey in Makkah. However, it is a matter of personal preference, and we offer both options in our packages. This is usually decided based on the convenience of changing into the Ihram, considering the Miqat points and travel duration.
The expenses of your stay in Makkah and Madinah will vary depending on your budget and your needs. However, some of the expenses you may incur include:
  • Flights
  • Accommodation
  • Local Transportation
  • Food
  • Visa
  • Miscellaneous

The [SD1] cheapest option for accommodation in Makkah and Madinah is to stay in a hotel or hotel apartment located a few kilometers away from the holy mosques. You can browse through our curated hotels (link to our hotel page), with ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars, to find the most affordable rates.

The cheapest option for transportation is to take the bus or Seat-in-Coach (SIC) options that are available locally. However, many hotels offer a frequent shuttle service that you can avail to/from Al Masjid Al Haram.[SD2]

The cheapest option for accommodation in Makkah and Madinah is to stay in a dormitory or hostel. However, if you prefer more privacy, you can stay in a hotel or guesthouse. With regards to hotels, put a lot of thought and care in choosing unrated ones as they tend to have a lot of drawbacks, which can cause inconvenience. [SD1] [SD1] You can browse through our curated hotels (link to our hotel page), with ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars, to find the best affordable rates. many hotels offer shuttle services which you can avail to visit the Al Masjid Al Haram and the Ka'aba. [SD2] [SD2]

Al Burooj Travels’s main objective is to offer the chance for Muslims around the world to perform Umrah at least once in their lifetime. Along with this overall objective, we aim to provide inclusive payment options for our customers, including installment payment plans. While we continue to work with our partners to achieve this, you can use our existing payment options such as credit and debit cards and Apple Pay. Along with this overall objective, we aim to provide inclusive payment options for our customers, including installment payment plans. While we continue to work with our partners to achieve this, you can use our existing payment options such as credit and debit cards.

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Makkah and Madinah, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Check out the accommodation options here (LINK)

There are a variety of transportation options available in Makkah and Madinah, including:

  • Buses
  • Taxis
  • Ride-hailing services
  • Al Haramain train

You can book Al Haramain train online at https://sar.hhr.sa/home or at the train station.

Haramain Train Ticket Prices (Subject to change without prior notice)

Traveling Economy Class

Departure Arrival Price
Makkah Madinah SAR 173
Makkah Jeddah SAR 46
Makkah KAEC SAR 98
KAEC Madinah SAR 115
Jeddah Madinah SAR 144
Jeddah KAEC SAR 58

Traveling Business Class

Departure Arrival Price
Makkah Madinah SAR 288
Makkah Jeddah SAR 58
Makkah KAEC SAR 127
KAEC Madinah SAR 173
Jeddah Madinah SAR 242
Jeddah KAEC SAR 75

Umrah and Visa

Make sure to have all the required documents, such as a valid passport, a recent passport photograph, and a completed visa application form.

Check the visa requirements for your country of origin. The requirements may vary depending on your country. Also, apply for your visa in advance to avoid any last-minute challenges.

We have a complete guide on Saudi and Umrah visa. Kindly refer to this page for your visa information.

We also offer visa support when you purchase a package from us, so go ahead and explore our packages.

You can apply for an Umrah visa online or at a Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate. The visa application process typically takes a few days.

The processing time for an Umrah visa varies depending on the country you are applying from. However, it typically takes a few days.

Yes, you can perform Umrah with a tourist visa, and it has several advantages compared to an Umrah visa. For example, you can stay longer, and it’s issued with multiple entries. However, tourist visas are more difficult to obtain, and you have a higher chance of getting a pilgrimage visa when you apply with a licensed travel agency.

Yes, you can get an Umrah visa on arrival at a Saudi Arabian airport. However, this is not always guaranteed, so it is best to apply for a visa in advance.

Tourists and Motamir can apply for Visa on Arrival* at one of Saudi Arabia's entry points if any of the following conditions apply:

  • From one of the countries in the eligible countries list.
  • Holding USA, United Kingdom, or Schengen visas. The following requirements must apply:
    • The visa is valid.
    • The visa type is either tourist or business.
    • The visa has to be used at least once and has an entry stamp of the issuing country.
  • Holders of permanent residence from US, UK, or EU, after ensuring the presence of the resident. This includes first-degree relatives of the visa holders coming with them.
It is best to apply for your Umrah visa at least 2 weeks in advance. However, you can apply for a visa even closer to your travel date, as long as there is still availability.

Preparing for the Umrah Trip

The first step is to ensure that you are in the best health and have all the necessary resources and documents to travel, such as forex, visa, accommodation, flights, etc. To prepare for Umrah, kindly go through our Umrah guide
Here are some essentials that you should pack for your Umrah trip:
  • Two pieces of Ihram clothing (for men, this is a white robe and a sheet; for women, this is a loose-fitting dress that covers the entire body)
  • A prayer mat
  • A compass
  • A small bag for your personal belongings
  • A bottle of Zamzam water
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (if you are traveling during the summer)
  • Medications that you may need
  • A copy of your passport and visa
Here are some essentials that you should pack for your children's Umrah trip:
  • Comfortable clothing that they can move around in easily
  • A hat and sunglasses to protect them from the sun
  • Toys and games to keep them entertained
  • Snacks and drinks
  • A first-aid kit
Here are some duas that you can read on the flight to Saudi Arabia:
  • Dua for safety: "Allahumma inni as'aluka al-salamata fi safar wa al-'afiyah fi dahr, wa al-tamaama fil 'amal." (O Allah, I ask You for safety in my journey, health in my body, and completion of my work.)
  • Dua for forgiveness: "Astaghfirullah al-'azim wa atubu ilayh." (I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty, and I repent to Him.)
  • Dua for guidance: "Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhab al-nar." (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.)
When you land in Saudi Arabia, expect a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
  • Be prepared for immigration and customs procedures, and ensure you have the necessary travel documents and visas.
  • Dress modestly, especially in public places, and be aware of cultural sensitivities.
  • Arabic is the official language, and English is widely understood in urban areas.
  • The Saudi Riyal is the currency, and credit cards are commonly accepted.
  • The weather can be extremely hot, so prepare for high temperatures.
  • Saudi Arabia has a well-developed transportation system.
  • There are diverse cuisine options that you can find in the country.
  • Respect local laws and customs, including restrictions on alcohol and public displays of affection.
  • While Saudi Arabia is generally safe, exercise common-sense precautions.
  • Stay updated on the latest travel advisories and government guidelines before your trip.
Here are some of the safety items that you should bring with you for your Umrah trip:
  • A copy of your passport and visa
  • A small amount of cash in Saudi riyals
  • A mobile phone with an international calling plan
  • A first-aid kit
  • A list of emergency numbers

Umrah Rituals

Miqat refers to the boundary where it becomes necessary for Umrah pilgrims to adorn the Ihram garments before proceeding to Makkah for Umrah or Hajj. It is not permissible to pass except in the state of Ihram. There are five Miqat points
  1. Dhul Hulaifah
  2. Al-Juhfah
  3. Zaat Irq
  4. Qarn Al Manazil
  5. Yalamlam

Ihram is the special clothing that you wear during Umrah. It consists of two pieces of white cloth for men and a loose-fitting dress that covers the entire body for women. You must enter the state of Ihram before you can perform the Tawaf and Sa'i, the two main rituals of Umrah.

No, it is not obligatory to visit Madinah during your Umrah trip. However, many pilgrims choose to do so, as it is the second holiest city in Islam and is the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

On your first day in Makkah, you will need to enter the state of Ihram and perform the Tawaf and Sa'i. The Tawaf is the circumambulation of the Kaaba, which is the holiest site in Islam. The Sa'i is walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, which is a reenactment of the journey that Hajar (AS) made when she was searching for water for her son, Ismail.

Here are some dos and don’ts of Umrah:

Dos:

    • Enter the state of Ihram before you perform the Tawaf and Sa'i.
    • Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
    • Walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, starting at Safa and ending at Marwah.
    • Shave your head or cut your hair short after the Tawaf and Sa'i.
    • Offer a sacrifice, if you are able.

Don’ts:

    • Wear perfume or makeup.
    • Cut your nails.
    • Have sexual relations.
    • Argue or fight.
    • Hunt or kill any animals.
Safa and Marwa are two hills located in the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The Sa'i is walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, which is a reenactment of the journey that Hagar made when she was searching for water for her son, Ismail.
The Tawaf is the circumambulation of the Kaaba, which is the holiest site in Islam. You enter the state of Ihram before you perform the Tawaf and circumambulate the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
Yes, you can perform Umrah on behalf of someone else, such as a deceased relative or a sick person who is unable to perform it themselves. This is known as "badal Umrah".
There is no limit to the number of times you can perform Umrah. It is a great way to show your devotion to Allah and to seek His forgiveness.

At Al Ka’baa (Al Masjid Al Haram)

There are wheelchairs available for use at Al Ka'baa. You can find them at the entrance to the Grand Mosque, or you can ask a staff member for help.

There are several resting places located in the Grand Mosque. You can find them on the first floor, near the Kaaba, and on the second floor, near the Zamzam well.

There are several ways to get transportation after you are done with your Umrah. You can take a taxi, a bus, or Al Haramain train.

If you get lost during Tawaf or Sa'i, do not panic. Just ask a staff member for help, or look for the signs that indicate the direction of the Kaaba.

The amount of time needed to complete Umrah varies depending on the individual. However, it typically takes around 2-3 hours to perform the Tawaf and Sa'i
Some of the hospitals near the Grand Mosque include:
  • Haram Emergency Hospital
  • Ajyaad General Hospital
  • Albayt Medical General Center

After Umrah

  • Visit the Jabal Al-Noor, the mountain where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received his first revelation
  • Visit the Mada'in Saleh, an ancient city that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Shop for souvenirs and gifts
  • Enjoy the local cuisine
Visit our blog Exploring the Spiritual Gems: Must-Visit Places in Makkah After Umrah for more recommendations

You can buy it from shops and supermarkets in Makkah and around Al Haram. If you have free time, you can visit the factory which is licensed to extract Zamzam water from the well, or You can directly buy Zamzam water from King Abdullah Zamzam Water Distribution Center.

Yes, you can bring Zamzam water back with you. However, there are some restrictions on how much you can bring. You are allowed to bring up to 5 liters of Zamzam water per person.

The train station for the Al Haramain train is located in Makkah. You can take the train to Madinah from this station. Makkah Station

The Ministry of Hajj has emphasized that you must have a permit to perform Umrah and visit Rawdah Al Sharifa. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make an appointment for Rawdah:

Step 01: Download the Nusuk application.

Step 02: Select a language and status as citizen or visitor.

Step 03: Enter your details, such as the Iqama number if you are a citizen.

However, if you are a visitor to Saudi Arabia, you must provide your visa number, passport number, date of birth, country, nationality, mobile number, code, and email address.

Step 04: Click on permits and select one of the two options “Praying in Al Rawdah Al Sharifa – Women” or “Praying in Rawdah Al Sharifa – Men.”

Step 05: Select a time, date, and praying slot. Once your application is approved, you can take your permit and go to pray on the time you booked

  • Shop around. There are many different shops in Makkah and Madinah, so it is a good idea to shop around before you make a purchase. You may be able to find the same item for a better price at another shop.
  • Bargain. It is customary to bargain in Makkah and Madinah. Do not be afraid to haggle with the shopkeepers to get the best price.
  • Be aware of the quality. The quality of the goods sold in Makkah and Madinah can vary. It is important to inspect the goods carefully before you make a purchase.
  • Beware of counterfeit goods. There are many counterfeit goods sold in Makkah and Madinah. Be sure to buy from a reputable shopkeeper to avoid getting scammed. For more bargains and shopping tips visit.

  • To choose a restaurant in Makkah and Madinah, you will need to -

      • Check the reviews. Before you choose a restaurant, be sure to check the reviews. This will give you an idea of the food, service, and atmosphere of the restaurant.
      • Ask your hotel or tour guide for recommendations. They will be able to suggest good restaurants that are located near your hotel or place of interest.
      • Be aware of the dress code. Some restaurants in Makkah and Madinah have a dress code. Be sure to dress appropriately before you go to a restaurant.
      • Be prepared to bargain. It is customary to bargain in Makkah and Madinah. Do not be afraid to haggle with the restaurant staff to get a better price.

    For more restaurant recommendations visit blog.

  • Makkah and Madinah are home to many attractions and activities. For more information and recommendations, visit our comprehensive travel guide blog.

  • After returning from Umrah, give thanks to Allah, resume your daily prayers, read the Quran, spend time with your family and friends, and plan your next Umrah.

    For a more detailed plan on your post-Umrah routine and activities, visit blog.

#UmrahwithMe

  • Al Burooj Travels is your trusted partner and your one-stop shop when it comes to Umrah booking, guides, support, and services. Al Burooj Travels offers a wide variety of accommodation options, transportation options, on-ground services, tours and visits, and an opportunity to visit and enjoy Saudi along with its culture and tourism after finishing your Umrah journey. You will always find the best deals and discounts on Al Burooj Travels for flights, hotels, transportation, and Umrah services. #Umrahwithme will be your companion during your trip sending guides, bargains, tips and tricks, Umrah rituals, and more.

Your budget and time constraints. Umrah can be performed in as little as one day, but most people stay for 3-7 days to allow time for travel, accommodation, and sightseeing. If you are on a tight budget or have limited time, you may want to just focus on Umrah. However, if budget and time is not a constraint, you may want to consider combining Umrah with some leisure activities.

Your interests. If you are interested in history and culture, you may want to visit some of the historical sites in Saudi Arabia, such as Mada'in Saleh or the Diriyah. If you are looking for a beach vacation, you can head to the Red Sea coast. And if you want to experience food and culture, you can visit Jeddah.

Your travel companions. If you are traveling with family or friends, you may want to consider their interests and preferences when making your decision.

Here are some popular destinations to visit after Umrah:

  • Jeddah. Jeddah is the largest city in Saudi Arabia and is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its beaches, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Madinah. Madinah is the second holiest city in Islam and is the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
  • Mada'in Saleh. Mada'in Saleh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the ancient city of the Nabataeans. It is located in the north-west of Saudi Arabia and is known for its well-preserved tombs and temples.
  • The Red Sea. The Red Sea is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. It is home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life.
  • Riyadh. Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and is a modern city with a mix of old and new. It is home to several museums and historical sites, as well as shopping malls and restaurants.

Booking and Payments on Al Burooj Travels

You can book one of our all-inclusive Umrah packages or book your accommodation only from our diverse selection of hotels in Makkah and Madinah. You can choose from a variety of services that we provide and tailor to your needs.
Al Burooj Travels offers a wide array of products and services such as hotels, Umrah packages, and Umrah Plus packages. Our packages include flights, accommodation, transfers, tours and activities, meet and greet service, local guides, etc.
On Al Burooj Travels, you can book our all-inclusive Umrah Plus packages to Jeddah, Abha, Taif, Al Ula, Tabuk, and Riyadh. We offer multiple options that you can customize as per your requirements.

Yes, all our packages are customizable.

Yes, all our packages are customizable.

Yes, we have various transportation options, including airport transfers, intercity transfers, and local transfers. Our fleet includes economy and luxury sedans, mid and full-size SUVs, vans, and buses.
You can access your booking details by logging into your account under “My Trips” section.

You can track your booking status by logging into your Al Burooj Travels account and selecting “My Trips”. You will also receive email updates during every step of your booking journey.

All international credit cards and debit cards linked to Visa, Mastercard, and Mada are accepted for online payments. Additionally, we acceot payments through Apple Pay.

We offer Travel Insurance and Umrah Visa as an add-on service.

You will have the option to select “Umrah Visa” as an add-on service while booking your package. Once the booking is confirmed, our team will reach out to you requesting passport copies and passport photos to process your Umrah visa. The approved document will be emailed to you.
Yes, you can modify or cancel your booking. However, cancellations are contingent upon our policies corresponding to each service.
Yes, you can get a refund, however it is governed by our terms and conditions, and it is subject to the cancellation policy associated with each service type.
Our customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you with any difficulties that may arise during your trip. Here is the link to our Contact Us page.

Al Burooj Travels is licensed by the Ministry of Hajj & Umrah in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are showcased as one of the key partners on the official Nusuk platform. To date, we have facilitated Umrah travel for approximately 3.5 million pilgrims.

You can write to us at https://www.trustpilot.com/evaluate/umrahme.com. You can also share your feedback and travel experience through our surveys, social media channels, and customer service channels.

You can contact our support team through WhatsApp +971 523873550, Call Centre UAE TOLL Free – 800454545, KSA TOLL Free – 920002963, Worldwide +97142457300, Email: [email protected]

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