by 14 Sep 2023
Getting ready to plan your own Umrah trip might seem like a daunting task. The questions of where to begin and which important steps to follow might overwhelm you, but here’s the good news: the process is not as hard as it looks! If you’re not sure about where to begin, read through our easy-to-follow guide meant to help you through your planning journey.
1. Determine the dates of your trip
First thing first, decide when you want to embark on your Umrah journey. By selecting your dates early, you can secure cost savings on flights and accommodations, benefiting from discounted rates and wider availability! If you’re uncertain about the best time to go, check out our tips here.
2. Apply for a Visa
For your Umrah pilgrimage, you have the option of using either an Umrah Visa or a Tourist Visa (also known as e-Visa). If you’re eligible for the e-Visa, it’s recommended to apply for it due to its flexibility. This visa grants you a one-year validity during which you can make multiple entries into Saudi Arabia for leisure or Umrah purposes, and it also includes mandatory health insurance coverage.
3. Plan your Itinerary
Before proceeding to the next steps, it’s essential to consider the time you have available and determine the number of days you’ll be spending in Makkah and Madinah.
Here’s a tip: While creating your itinerary, jot down all the historical and notable sites you wish to visit. This will ensure you don’t miss anything important and can organise your schedule effectively.
4. Book your flight
Now that you’ve settled on your travel dates and obtained your visa, it’s time to search for flights. There are two flight options: direct or with a layover. Pilgrims typically fly to Jeddah and then use other modes of transportations to reach Makkah or Madinah, such as train, taxi, private hire, or bus. Remember to book your flight in advance to secure the best deals!
5. Book your hotel
There’s a wide range of hotels to choose from in Makkah and Madinah, catering to various budgets and preferences. You can find options that are budget-friendly or more luxurious, some conveniently close to the mosque while others are a bit farther away. It’s important that you choose a hotel that aligns with your needs and budget.
Pro tip: Always have a backup plan in case of unexpected situations like overbooking, even if you’ve already made reservations in advance. Additionally, when faced with a variety of choices, it’s best to conduct research and read reviews before finalising your hotel booking.
6. Arrange your transportation
Plan how you’ll commute around Makkah and Madinah, including transportation to and from Jeddah airport. Options include trains, buses, taxis, and private hires. For getting around within Makkah and Madinah, you can use buses, taxis, or services like Uber or Careem.
7. Download the Nusuk mobile application
The Nusuk mobile application is necessary for reserving your slot to enter Raudah at Masjid Al-Nabawi in Madinah. Without a proper booking, you will be denied access. Slots are open on a random basis, so make sure to check regularly for available slots. When you choose a time slot, be sure you can stick to it. If you miss or cancel it, you might not be able to book again, as users can only make one booking per week.
8. Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for additional coverage beyond health insurance. It can safeguard against trip cancellations or interruptions, lost baggage, and other travel-related risks.
9. Get Yourself Ready
Once everything is in place – flights, visa, accommodation, and more – it’s time to prepare yourself! Familiarise yourself with Umrah rituals, learn about the notable places in Makkah and Madinah, and understand local customs and rules. The more you know, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel about your journey!
