Independent service, not Nusuk or the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Official visas: umrah.nusuk.sa
Guide

Umrah package types explained

Economy, standard, premium and luxury, and the four things that really set the price.

Umrah packages are sold in budget levels with different names, but the same few things set the price. Ask every operator for each of them in writing.

The four things that set the price

  1. Hotel distance from the Haram. The single biggest factor. A hotel beside the Haram can cost several times one that needs a bus.
  2. Room sharing. Quad (four to a room) is the usual base price. Triple and double cost more per person.
  3. Flights. "Land only" prices leave out flights, which can be a large part of the total. Compare like with like.
  4. Season. Ramadan, especially the last ten nights, and school holidays cost the most.

Budget levels

EconomyLowest price

  • 3-star or simpler hotels, often a bus ride or a long walk from the Haram
  • Usually four or five to a room
  • Group departures on fixed dates
  • Meals often included as a buffet

StandardBest value

  • 3 to 4-star hotels within walking distance
  • Four or three to a room, doubles on request
  • Group or flexible dates
  • Ziyarat tours in Makkah and Madinah

PremiumClose to the Haram

  • 4 to 5-star hotels a short walk from the Haram gates
  • Triple or double rooms
  • Flexible dates and private transfers
  • Good for older parents and families

LuxuryHaram view

  • 5-star hotels beside the Haram, some with Kaaba or Haram views
  • Double rooms or suites
  • Private car transfers between cities
  • Tailor-made itineraries

How long should Umrah be?

The rites of Umrah take a few hours. Package length is about how much time you want in Makkah and Madinah. Common lengths are about a week, ten days and fifteen days, and many pilgrims split their nights between the two cities. Older pilgrims often prefer longer stays with fewer early starts.

Group or private?

Group packages leave on fixed dates with a guide and are usually cheaper. Private or tailor-made packages let you choose dates, hotels and transport.

What to ask every operator

  • The names of both hotels, and the walking distance to the Haram gates.
  • How many people share each room.
  • Whether the price includes flights, visa, transfers, Ziyarat and meals.
  • Their licence number and the register you can check it on.
  • The cancellation and refund rules, in writing.

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