Umrah Frequently Asked Questions

The cost depends on travel dates, departure airport, airline, hotel category, room occupancy, length of stay and services included. Ramadan, school holidays and other busy periods may be more expensive. Compare the complete price — flights, accommodation, visa services and transport — rather than relying only on a starting price. Explore our Umrah packages or read our planning guides.

The price depends on whether you depart from Dublin, Cork, Shannon or another airport, and whether your journey connects through the UK or elsewhere. Hotel rates, travel dates, passport nationality and baggage allowance also affect the total. Request a quotation that specifies the departure airport and all included services.

Depending on the package, inclusions may cover return flights, hotels in Makkah and Madinah, visa assistance, airport transfers, intercity transport and Ziyarat tours. Meals, checked baggage, private transfers and other services may be included or charged separately. Ask for a written breakdown of everything included and excluded.

Compare dates, departure airports, room-sharing options and hotel categories. Travelling outside peak periods may offer better value, but a low advertised price may exclude baggage, visa fees or transfers. Compare the total payable amount and cancellation conditions before deciding.

The difference usually concerns the hotel category and facilities, but star ratings do not automatically guarantee a particular walking distance to the mosque. Compare the exact hotel, room category, location, meals, transport and total cost. A well-located hotel in a lower category may suit some pilgrims better than a more distant luxury hotel.

You can request a package tailored to your family's travel dates, departure airport, room arrangements, hotel preferences and transport needs. Availability depends on flights, hotels and suppliers. Ask us to confirm the room occupancy, family arrangements and complete price in writing.

Deposit requirements vary by travel provider, supplier and booking conditions. Before paying, check the deposit amount, balance deadline, cancellation charges and refund terms. Ask for a booking confirmation and receipt for every payment.

Booking early can provide more choice of flights and hotels, especially during Ramadan, school holidays and other high-demand periods. However, early booking does not guarantee the lowest price. Check live availability and the terms attached to the quotation.

Some travel providers offer hotel-only arrangements for customers who have booked their own flights. Confirm the hotel dates, room type, meal plan, cancellation terms and whether visa services or transfers are included.

Compare the same travel dates, number of nights, number of travellers and room occupancy. Check hotel names, realistic walking routes, flight times, baggage, visa fees, transport, meals, cancellation terms and any applicable financial protection. The cheapest headline price may not be the cheapest complete trip.

British citizens must hold the Saudi entry authorisation applicable to their journey. Saudi Arabia introduced an electronic travel authorisation arrangement for UK citizens in 2026; eligibility, validity, permitted purposes and conditions should be checked against current official guidance before travelling. Do not assume that an authorisation for tourism also permits Hajj. Check GOV.UK's Saudi entry requirements and the official Saudi visa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com).

Eligible visitors may be permitted to perform Umrah using an appropriate Saudi tourist visa or travel authorisation, subject to the applicable conditions and seasonal restrictions. Hajj requires the appropriate Hajj authorisation. Confirm the rules for your nationality and intended dates before booking — see GOV.UK's Saudi pilgrimage guidance.

Irish citizens should check their eligibility through the official Saudi visa system and the current entry rules applicable to Irish passport holders. Visa options and conditions may differ from those available to British citizens. Confirm the permitted activities and length of stay before booking flights.

A Pakistani passport holder residing in the UK must meet the Saudi visa requirements applicable to their nationality and circumstances. UK residence does not automatically confer the same visa eligibility as a British passport. Check the available route and required documents before paying for travel — see our Umrah visa guide and the official Saudi visa portal.

It may be possible, but eligibility depends on the traveller's passport, residence status and the available Saudi visa route. Residence in Ireland alone does not determine visa eligibility. Check the requirements for the exact passport being used.

Passport-validity rules depend on nationality and visa route. British travellers should check the current Saudi entry conditions on GOV.UK; other passport holders should verify their own requirements. Airlines may also check that travel documents meet the conditions for the journey.

Documents depend on the visa route and nationality. They may include a valid passport, an application, a photograph, relevant travel information and health documentation where required. Do not rely on a generic checklist without checking the requirements for your specific application — see our Umrah visa guide and the official Saudi visa portal.

Processing time varies by visa type, nationality, application completeness and the authorities' procedures. An estimated processing time is not a guarantee of approval. Apply in good time and check your application status through the relevant official channel.

Access and visa permissions may be restricted around Hajj. Umrah authorisations, entry conditions and permitted dates can change, so check the official guidance before booking travel near the Hajj period. Do not assume that an ordinary tourist visa permits entry to Makkah for every purpose or date.

Use the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (haj.gov.sa), the official Saudi visa system (visa.visitsaudi.com) and current UK government travel advice on GOV.UK. These sources are more reliable for entry requirements than old social media posts or undated travel articles.

Depending on the airline and season, travellers may find suitable departures from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and other airports. Routes and fares vary by date. Compare the complete itinerary, including connections, baggage and arrival airport — see our London, Manchester and Birmingham departure guides.

Direct flights may be available from London to Jeddah or Madinah depending on the airline and travel date. Other itineraries may require a connection. Check the actual flight schedule and fare conditions before confirming.

Manchester is one of the UK airports from which travellers can investigate Umrah itineraries. Availability, direct services, connections and prices depend on the date and airline. Compare flights from Manchester with other airports if your travel dates are flexible — see our Manchester departure guide.

Travellers can compare available routes from Birmingham to Jeddah or Madinah, including direct or connecting itineraries where offered. Confirm the airline, baggage allowance, total journey time and transfer requirements — see our Birmingham departure guide.

Travellers from Scotland may be able to find suitable itineraries from Glasgow, Edinburgh or another nearby airport. Routes may involve a connection, and availability changes by season. Compare the complete journey and the cost of reaching the departure airport — see our Glasgow departure guide.

Available routes depend on the airline, season and destination. Check whether your preferred airport offers a suitable itinerary or whether Heathrow or Gatwick provides a better option for your dates — see our Luton departure guide.

Dublin travellers can compare flights to Jeddah and Madinah, including itineraries with connections. Check passport eligibility, transit requirements, baggage and the timing of onward transfers before choosing a flight. Request an itinerary tailored to Dublin through our team.

Either airport can work, depending on the order of your hotels and your flight options. Arriving in Jeddah may suit a trip beginning in Makkah; arriving in Madinah may suit pilgrims who wish to stay there first. Compare the full itinerary and onward transport rather than choosing on airfare alone.

Baggage allowances depend on the airline, ticket type and route. Check the cabin baggage and checked baggage allowances for every passenger, including any restrictions on extra bags and Zamzam water. Ask our team for the allowance on your proposed itinerary.

Contact the airline and your travel provider as soon as possible, keep your booking records and follow the instructions provided. Your rights and available options depend on the flight, ticket conditions, circumstances and applicable law. Do not independently cancel connected hotel or transport arrangements without checking the consequences.

Several hotels are situated in the central area around Masjid al-Haram, including hotels in the Abraj Al Bait complex. Actual walking distance depends on the building entrance, route, access arrangements and the hotel's location. Always verify the named hotel and realistic walking route — compare the hotel details in our package listings.

Madinah has a number of hotels around the central area near the Prophet's Mosque. The most suitable option depends on the actual entrance, walking route, room type, accessibility and budget. Confirm the exact hotel and distance before booking.

No. A five-star rating does not automatically mean that a hotel is within a short walking distance. Check the address, actual walking route, shuttle service if applicable and the room category included in the package.

It should mean the realistic route a guest can use to reach the mosque, not merely a straight-line measurement. Entrances, road crossings, crowd controls and mobility needs can affect the time required. Ask the provider to clarify the distance and route.

Some hotels offer rooms advertised with a Ka'bah view, but these rooms are subject to room category and availability and may cost more. A hotel close to the Haram does not guarantee a Ka'bah-view room. Obtain written confirmation of the exact room category.

Some hotel rates are room-only; others include breakfast or additional meals. The meal plan depends on the particular booking and hotel. Check the quotation and hotel confirmation for the exact inclusions.

Room types depend on the hotel's inventory and the package rate. Specify whether you require one double bed, twin beds, family accommodation or connecting rooms. Ask for confirmation because a preference may not be guaranteed until confirmed by the hotel.

Some hotels are more convenient for elderly travellers, but the shortest advertised distance does not necessarily mean the easiest route. Consider lifts, entrances, slopes, wheelchair arrangements, rest breaks and transport options. Explain any mobility needs before booking and request an accessibility-focused itinerary.

Some hotels offer adjoining or connecting rooms, but availability depends on the property and room category. If adjoining rooms are essential, request written confirmation rather than relying on a general hotel description.

Check the full hotel name, address, room type, occupancy, check-in and check-out dates, meal plan, walking route, cancellation policy and any extra charges. Confirm whether the hotel is booked or only proposed, and retain the written confirmation.

Some packages include airport transfers, while others charge separately. Confirm the airports covered, whether transport is private or shared, the vehicle size, luggage capacity and any waiting-time charges. Ask for the precise inclusions in your quotation.

Options may include a pre-booked private car, shared transport, coach services or rail connections where suitable. Your choice depends on group size, arrival time, luggage, budget and hotel location. Confirm the pickup point and final drop-off arrangement before travelling.

The Haramain High Speed Railway connects Makkah and Madinah through intermediate stations. Tickets and timetables depend on the date and availability — check the official Haramain website (sar.hhr.sa). Plan the journey between your hotel and the railway station separately unless transfers are explicitly included.

Private transport may provide a more direct journey and flexibility, while shared transport may cost less. Compare the complete price, waiting time, vehicle type, luggage allowance and pickup arrangements. The best choice depends on your group and budget.

Some packages include Ziyarat tours, while others offer them as optional extras. Confirm the locations, duration, transport, group size and additional charges. A religious or historical visit is not the same as a required Umrah rite.

Private vehicles may be available for airport transfers, intercity journeys and local visits, subject to supplier availability. Confirm passenger capacity, luggage space, child-seat requirements if applicable, pickup times and the full price.

Airlines and airports may provide assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Request it as early as possible and confirm the arrangements before departure. Airport assistance does not automatically mean that wheelchair transport is included throughout your Saudi itinerary.

Options vary by location and may include walking, taxis, private transfers, buses and rail for suitable journeys. Crowds and access arrangements can affect travel times, particularly around prayer times and busy seasons. Plan extra time for journeys to the mosques and stations.

It may be possible, but the amount of time available depends on flight schedules, intercity travel and hotel check-in times. A very short itinerary may leave little time for worship, rest or unexpected delays. Compare the complete travel plan before booking.

Consider direct transfers, suitable vehicles, rest breaks, luggage requirements and how far the group will need to walk. Confirm any wheelchair assistance in advance and allow extra time for busy stations and airports. Explain the needs of each traveller when requesting a quotation.

The main rites involve entering Ihram with the intention of Umrah, performing Tawaf around the Ka'bah, performing Sa'i between Safa and Marwah, and shaving or trimming the hair to complete the rites. Pilgrims should learn the sequence before travel and seek qualified religious guidance if uncertain. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's official Umrah and Visit Guide (haj.gov.sa) gives an overview.

Ihram is the sacred state entered with the intention of performing pilgrimage rites. The term is also commonly used for the prescribed clothing worn by male pilgrims. Specific rules and restrictions apply while in this state — see the official Saudi Umrah guide.

A person intending to perform Umrah must enter Ihram before crossing the applicable Miqat. The timing depends on the flight route and itinerary. Prepare in advance and ask a qualified scholar or knowledgeable group leader if you are unsure when to make the intention.

Men generally wear two prescribed unstitched or unshaped cloths. The clothing rules form part of the wider rules of Ihram, and the exact rulings should be learned from a reliable religious guide. Pack suitable garments before departure.

Women do not wear the same two-piece garment prescribed for men. They should wear appropriate modest clothing and observe the applicable rules of Ihram. Questions about face coverings, gloves and other specific matters should be checked with a qualified scholar.

The Talbiyah is a prescribed declaration of response to Allah that pilgrims recite after entering Ihram. Learn the wording and the relevant practices from a reliable Umrah guide or qualified teacher before travelling.

Tawaf is the rite of circumambulating the Ka'bah seven times in the prescribed manner. Pilgrims should follow the designated routes, avoid pushing others and comply with mosque staff instructions.

Sa'i is the rite of travelling between Safa and Marwah seven times according to the prescribed sequence. Pilgrims should familiarise themselves with the route and plan assistance if they have mobility or health concerns.

Pilgrims should not push, injure or inconvenience others in an attempt to reach the Black Stone. Follow reliable religious guidance on how to begin each circuit and comply with crowd-management instructions.

Pilgrims can make supplications and remember Allah during these rites. Do not assume that a particular supplication is compulsory for every circuit without a reliable religious basis. Consult a qualified scholar if you follow a specific school of thought or have a particular question.

Umrah is completed by shaving or trimming the hair in accordance with the applicable religious rulings. The details differ for men and women and can depend on individual circumstances. Learn the correct procedure before travelling and consult a qualified scholar.

Personal cleanliness is important, but pilgrims must observe the restrictions of Ihram. Questions about scented products, grooming and other specific actions should be checked against reliable religious guidance because the ruling can depend on what was done and the circumstances.

Changing Ihram garments is generally possible, but the pilgrim must continue to observe the rules of Ihram. Make sure replacement garments meet the applicable requirements. Seek scholarly guidance if the reason for changing involves a specific prohibition or unusual circumstance.

The ruling depends on which act was missed, whether it was an essential rite or an obligation, and what happened afterwards. Do not assume that every mistake requires a sacrifice. Explain the exact circumstances to a qualified scholar.

No. The required response depends on the act, the circumstances and the relevant religious ruling. Some cases may require corrective action or compensation, while others may not require a sacrifice. Obtain qualified religious advice before arranging or paying for one.

Pilgrims with limited mobility may be able to use wheelchairs or other assistance, subject to current facilities and access rules. Check arrangements in advance and follow the designated routes. Plan your hotel, transport and assistance around your specific needs.

Scholars discuss the circumstances and practice of performing multiple Umrahs during one visit. If you plan an additional Umrah, seek qualified religious guidance and check current Saudi access and permit rules before arranging your itinerary.

If you have entered Ihram intending to perform Umrah, you remain in that state until you complete the rites. Timing, circumstances and access rules may affect your plan. Ask a qualified scholar about your specific situation and follow the instructions of mosque authorities.

Saudi entry rules and religious rulings are separate questions. Whether a woman can travel under a particular visa or booking arrangement depends on current Saudi regulations and her circumstances; religious rulings about a Mahram may differ among scholars. Check official entry rules and seek trusted scholarly guidance.

Performing Umrah on behalf of another person is subject to religious conditions, including the person's circumstances and the relevant scholarly rulings. Ask a qualified scholar whether your situation qualifies before making the intention.

Saudi Arabia's requirements include proof of meningococcal ACWY vaccination for Umrah pilgrims, with timing and certificate-validity rules specified in the current guidance. Additional requirements can depend on travel history and the season. Check TravelHealthPro's Hajj and Umrah guidance and GOV.UK entry requirements before departure.

Current UK travel-health guidance states that the relevant meningococcal ACWY vaccination should be given at least ten days before travel for Hajj and Umrah purposes. Certificate validity depends on the vaccine type and current Saudi rules. Confirm the exact requirement with a travel-health professional.

Requirements depend on the current Saudi rules and the child's age. TravelHealthPro's published guidance specifies age-related requirements, so parents should check the current factsheet and seek advice from a healthcare professional rather than assuming children are exempt.

Bring prescribed medicines in their original packaging, along with the relevant prescription or medical documentation. Saudi rules may restrict some medicines, especially controlled drugs. Check the current rules before packing medicines and carry enough for the trip, allowing for possible delays.

Travel insurance may cover certain medical expenses, cancellations, delays and baggage problems, depending on the policy. Check geographical coverage, exclusions, pre-existing medical conditions and the dates covered. Do not assume that visa-related insurance replaces comprehensive travel insurance.

Consider walking distances, wheelchair assistance, hotel access, medication, heat, hydration and the length of transfers. Discuss medical fitness with a healthcare professional if needed. Arrange any essential assistance in advance and confirm it with the relevant providers.

Suitability depends on individual health, pregnancy stage, airline rules and medical advice. Speak to a healthcare professional before booking, check airline conditions and consider the physical demands of walking and crowded environments.

Drink water regularly, rest when needed and take care during hot weather or long periods of walking. Follow local health guidance and seek medical attention if you develop concerning symptoms. People with medical conditions affecting fluid intake should follow their clinician's advice.

Seek appropriate medical assistance and inform your travel companion or group leader if relevant. Keep emergency contacts, medication information and insurance details accessible. If symptoms are serious or urgent, contact the local emergency services.

Useful items include your passport and visa documents, flight and hotel confirmations, suitable clothing, Ihram garments where applicable, comfortable footwear, prescribed medicines and phone chargers. Check the airline's baggage rules and current Saudi health guidance before travelling.

Both cash and payment cards can be useful. Carry enough Saudi riyals for immediate expenses, and check your bank's foreign-transaction fees, cash-withdrawal charges and card compatibility before leaving. Keep your cash and cards secure.

Visitors may be able to purchase a SIM from an authorised telecom provider at the airport or in the city, subject to availability and registration rules. Bring your passport and compare data allowances, validity and prices. Check whether your phone supports eSIM if you prefer a digital option.

Your phone may work through international roaming, depending on your network and tariff. Roaming charges can be high, so check your provider's Saudi Arabia rates before travel. A local SIM or eSIM may be an alternative if your phone supports it.

WhatsApp messaging is widely used, but features and network access can vary. Check with your mobile provider and ensure that you have an appropriate data connection. Keep important hotel, transport and emergency details available offline as a backup.

Keep your passport and travel documents secure, and store a separate copy in a safe location. The UK government recommends keeping copies of travel documentation and leaving a copy with someone you trust. Follow your hotel's advice about secure storage.

Report the loss as appropriate and contact your country's embassy or consulate for instructions about replacement travel documents. Inform your airline and travel provider if your return journey may be affected. Keep copies of your passport details and booking documents accessible.

Rules depend on the airline, airport, packaging and destination. Some airlines offer a specific allowance for officially packaged Zamzam water, but it is not safe to assume that every ticket includes it. Confirm the current policy with your airline and airport before travel.

Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi riyal (SAR). Exchange rates and fees vary, so compare the total amount you will receive from licensed exchange providers and check your bank's card and ATM charges.

Contact the transfer provider or your travel agent using the booking details supplied. Do not assume another vehicle will be included without confirmation. Keep the pickup instructions, local contact number and hotel address accessible during the journey. If the transfer was booked through us, use the contact details in your booking confirmation.

Save your hotel address, travel provider's contact details, airline booking reference, insurance information and your country's embassy contact details. Share your itinerary with a trusted person at home and keep copies of important documents separately from the originals.

Check the company's legal identity, contact details, written terms, independent reviews and the accuracy of its package information. Verify claims about ATOL protection with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (caa.co.uk/atol) and ask for the certificate applicable to your booking. Be cautious of pressure to pay immediately or payments to unrelated accounts.

ATOL is a UK financial protection scheme for certain air-travel arrangements. Whether a particular booking is covered depends on the arrangement and applicable rules. Read the ATOL Certificate and check which services and travellers it covers, and request the applicable certificate from your travel provider.

No. ATOL does not automatically cover every service or every booking sold by a travel agency. Protection depends on the specific arrangements and the documentation issued. Ask the provider to explain what is covered before paying.

Refund rights depend on the contract, the reason for cancellation, supplier terms and applicable law. Some costs may be non-refundable. Read the cancellation conditions before paying and request a written explanation of any charges.

Ask for the change and proposed replacement in writing. Compare the replacement's location, category, room type, meals and other material details. Your rights depend on the contract and applicable law, so review the terms and seek advice if the change is significant. Keep the original booking confirmation and any revised documents.

Keep the quotation, invoice, booking terms, payment receipts, flight and hotel confirmations, visa documents and applicable protection certificate. These records help you confirm what was agreed and resolve disputes if something changes. Store your documents securely and keep copies accessible during travel.

Payment options depend on the travel provider and supplier arrangements. If instalments are offered, confirm the deposit, payment dates, final balance deadline and consequences of missed payments. Obtain the payment schedule in writing before booking.

Verify the company, check independent reviews, insist on written booking terms and confirm the payment destination matches the legitimate business or supplier. Verify any claimed ATOL protection and be wary of unusually low prices or pressure to pay immediately.

Browse our Umrah packages and send an enquiry with your preferred travel dates, departure airport, number of travellers, hotel category, room occupancy and budget. Ask for a written quotation listing the proposed flights, hotels, visa arrangements, transfers, inclusions and exclusions.

Use the contact details published on our website — call, WhatsApp or the enquiry form. When contacting the team about an existing booking, provide your booking reference and travel dates. Do not send full payment-card details or sensitive identity documents through an insecure channel.

Our packages include return flights from the UK, hotels in Makkah and Madinah, Umrah visa processing and transfers. Prices are per person, and your written quote lists your flights, baggage, room type and everything included before you book.

Yes. We are fully ATOL protected and IATA-certified, meaning your investment is legally protected against unforeseen circumstances.

For the best value and milder weather we recommend the October to March period. However, we offer tailored packages year-round to suit your schedule.

Absolutely. Our team can customise hotels, flight dates and room types to meet your specific budget and comfort requirements.

Costs vary by season and luxury level, but we pride ourselves on transparency with no hidden fees. Prices range from budget-friendly options to premium luxury experiences.

UK citizens can often apply for an eVisa or get a visa on arrival. Rules change frequently, so we handle the entire application process for you to ensure zero errors.

There are currently no strict upper age limits, but children must be accompanied by a guardian. We stay updated on the latest Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah regulations.

Under current Saudi regulations women are permitted to perform Umrah without a Mahram. We provide safe, group-based environments for sisters travelling solo.

Generally, Meningococcal Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination is mandatory. We provide a full checklist of required documents and health certificates upon booking.

Yes, Umrah can now be performed on various visa types including the 1-year multiple-entry tourist visa, which we can help you secure.

Most airlines allow one 5-litre bottle of Zamzam per pilgrim as checked luggage. We ensure you receive the officially sealed bottles required for air travel.

It is possible using the Haramain high-speed rail, but we recommend at least 7 nights so you can worship without rushing between cities.

We work with top-tier carriers including Saudia, British Airways, Oman Air, Qatar Airways and Emirates, departing from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham.

Luxury packages are £1,129–£1,619 per person. We arrange your flights, baggage, visa processing, hotels and transfers, all itemised in your written quote.

In Makkah: Raffles Makkah Palace, Makkah Clock Royal Tower (Fairmont), Mövenpick Hajar Tower, InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid and Conrad Makkah Jabal Omar. In Madinah: Dar Al Taqwa, Dar Al Eiman Royal, Madinah Hilton, Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah and Frontel Al Harithia.

Luxury packages are offered as 7, 10 or 12 night itineraries, split between Makkah and Madinah.

Yes. We welcome enquiries from across the UK and Ireland. Flight routing and departure airport are confirmed with you at quote stage.

Yes. Every package can be tailored — swap hotels, upgrade rooms to Kaaba or Haram view, or change the Makkah/Madinah split. Speak to an Umrah Travel Consultant for a quote.

Al Furqan Travels is a London-based Umrah and Hajj travel agency serving pilgrims across the UK and Ireland, arranging hotels, flights, visas and transfers through a written quote.

Yes. Our bookings are ATOL protected and we are IATA certified, so eligible flight-inclusive packages carry financial protection.

A dedicated Umrah Travel Consultant guides you from your first enquiry through visa paperwork, hotel choice and travel dates.

Our pilgrims rate us 4.9 overall. You can read customer reviews on our homepage and About page.

We aim to get back to you within 2 hours of receiving your enquiry form.

Yes. You can message or call us on WhatsApp using the buttons on this page, or call our phone line directly.

Share your preferred travel dates, departure airport, number of travellers, room sharing and hotel preference so we can prepare an accurate written quote.

Our office address and map are shown on this page. Please call ahead so a consultant is available to meet you.

Each article lists its sources, such as GOV.UK, the official Saudi visa portal, airports and hotel websites, along with the date it was last updated.

We review articles when official rules, visa fees or travel conditions change. The update date is shown on every article.

Articles describing the rites of Umrah are only published after review by a qualified scholar. For personal rulings, please consult your local scholar.

Yes. Send us an enquiry or WhatsApp message and a consultant will help with your travel planning questions.