MY TRAVEL COSTS IN SAUDI ARABIA | BUDGETED UMRAH PACKAGES
SMART BUDGET TIPS FOR HAJJ AND UMRAH
BUDGET UMRAH PACKAGES 2019
Whatever your financial position, it is important to plan your budget for Hajj and Umrah with care. Then, you can enjoy the spiritual experience of visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Madinah without worrying about money problems.
The total cost of your pilgrimage depends on many options. See our tips for an excellent Hajj or Umrah experience at a cost you can afford.
WHAT HAJJ OR UMRAH PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE? | HAJJ AND UMRAH 2019
Hajj pilgrims must book a package that includes visas, accommodation and transportation through an agency approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The pilgrims of Umrah are free to organize their own accommodation and transportation, but may wish to take advantage of the special offers of Umrah packages. These range from basic to VIP, so take the time to compare packages and find the best one for your budget.
Prices depend on your country of residence and you may be able to find a better deal by booking accommodation in Makkah and Madinah independently, especially if you want to stay in a luxury hotel.
CAN I TRAVEL AT OFF-PEAK TIMES?
Traveling in low season and outside holiday periods offers a more relaxing experience of Umrah. It also allows you to take advantage of the lower flight costs and special hotel offers. If you must perform Umrah at a busy time of the year, consider traveling on weekdays instead of weekends.
Most pilgrims stay in Saudi Arabia for 15 to 28 days. A shorter trip will save you some money, but once you have paid for your flights and visas, you can also make the most of your stay!
WHAT ARE MY TRAVEL COSTS IN SAUDI ARABIA? | CHEAP UMRAH DEALS UK
Taxis and private transfers with driver are the most comfortable travel options for pilgrims with large families and lots of luggage, but for long journeys between Makkah and Madinah, they can add much to your budget. For up-to-date information and tips on Saudi Arabia travel options, check out our blog articles about the best routes to travel to Mecca and how to get around Mecca once you are in the city.
ALONE OR AS A GROUP? – GROUP UMRAH PACKAGES UK 2018-2019
Large families and groups traveling together can save money by sharing taxis and reserving family suites in hotels. On the other hand, traveling with children or older family members may mean that you need to spend more on transportation, shopping and meals.
WHAT LEVEL OF COMFORT DO I NEED?
Do not underestimate how strenuous the Hajj and Umrah can be, especially at peak times and during the heat. In Makkah, many pilgrims appreciate the comfort of staying in a 5 star hotel near Al Haram with reliable air conditioning and high quality facilities. If you make a smart budget, book well in advance and look for special offers, you can enjoy a higher level of comfort and enjoy even more your experience in Hajj or Umrah.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BUY IN MECCA?
Buying gifts for loved ones at home is an important aspect of Hajj or Umrah for many pilgrims. You may also need to include ihram clothes, sun protection and fragrance-free toiletries. Haircuts and shaving are other minor expenses. You have a lot of flexibility in the “shopping” portion of your budget, but large buyers may have to pay excess baggage fees on the flight home.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I BUDGET FOR FOOD AND DRINK?
Eating and drinking together should be one of the pleasures of a pilgrimage, so it is worth budgeting a decent amount depending on the type of restaurants you enjoy. Hotel rates, particularly in more exclusive hotels, often include a generous breakfast and you can also book half-board or even full-board packages. Remember to include money for snacks and drinks, since the weather in Makkah is very hot and you will have to keep recharged and rehydrated while you perform your rites.
HOW MUCH DOES THE SACRIFICE COST?
Unless it is included in your package, you must quote a mandatory sacrifice during your stay in Mecca. You can buy a slaughter coupon in advance or in Mecca, with the cost depending on the type of animal you choose to be slaughtered. If you lose a mandatory rite, you must pay another sacrifice to expiate it.
WHAT DOES WIFI AND MOBILE INTERNET COST IN SAUDI ARABIA?
Call, send messages and send photos to friends and family at home, as well as maintain contact in social networks, are part of the pleasure of a pilgrimage. Many good hotels now offer free WiFi and you can get great deals on prepaid SIM cards for your smartphone while traveling in Saudi Arabia.
Contact us for more detail.
