10 Important Tips to Save on Your Umrah Trip

Planning your Umrah trip from the UK? Here’s how you can save money without compromising on your spiritual journey:

1. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Save up to 30% on flights and 25% on accommodation by visiting between Muharram and Rajab or during winter months. Avoid school holidays and Ramadan's final ten days.
2. Book Flights Early: Secure the best deals by booking flights 3–8 months ahead.
3. Choose Budget-Friendly Hotels: Stay in areas like Al Aziziyah. Look for hotels offering free shuttle services to the Haram.
4. Travel in Groups: Group packages can reduce costs on flights, hotels, and visas. Share expenses and enjoy discounts.
5. Use Affordable Transport: Opt for Makkah buses, shared taxis, or the Haramain High-Speed Railway for intercity travel.
6. Save on Food: Explore budget-friendly eateries like Al Baik or cook meals if your accommodation has a kitchen.
7. Get Better Exchange Rates: Use currency apps like Revolut or Wise, and exchange money during favourable rate periods.
8. Pack Smart: Avoid excess baggage fees by packing light and using essentials like travel-sized toiletries.
9. Track Spending: Use budget apps like Goodbudget or PocketGuard to monitor daily expenses.
10. Consider All-Inclusive Packages: Bundled deals often save money by including flights, accommodation, and visas.

Quick Comparison Table:

Plan ahead, travel smart, and focus on your spiritual journey while keeping your budget intact.

1. Choose Low-Season Travel Dates

Travelling during off-peak times can help you save up to 30% on flights and 25% on accommodation.

For the best deals, plan your trip between Muharram and Rajab, avoiding school holidays. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different seasons:

Winter months (November to February) are particularly appealing, offering mild weather, smaller crowds, and accommodation priced around £120–£240 per night, compared to peak rates of £160–£320.

To cut costs further, consider these tips:

• Book early to take advantage of discounts.
• Travel on weekdays rather than weekends.
• If visiting during Ramadan, aim for the earlier part of the month instead of the last ten nights.

Be mindful of price hikes during Ramadan and December school holidays, when fares can jump by 20–30%.

For even more savings, travelling in Muharram and Safar (post-Hajj season) often means fewer pilgrims and package deals that are about 25% cheaper.

2. Find the Best Flight Deals

Booking your flights well in advance - ideally 3 to 8 months before your trip - can help you save a significant amount on your Umrah journey. This approach works hand in hand with planning your travel during off-peak seasons, as previously discussed.

Here’s a helpful guide for timing your bookings:

To make the most of your budget, keep these tips in mind:

• Monitor flight prices on platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and KAYAK.
• Consider flying from secondary airports in the UK. Check options from Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Stansted, and Glasgow to find better deals.
• Book midweek departures - Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer savings of up to 50%.
• Avoid last-minute bookings (within two months of travel) and don’t overlook connecting flights.
• Look into connecting flights for cheaper options. Tools like Kiwi can help you discover unique and affordable route combinations.

Keep an eye out for airline sales, which can slash fares by 30–40%. Signing up for airline newsletters is a smart way to get early alerts about these promotions.

3. Pick Smart Hotel Options

Choosing the right accommodation is a crucial part of managing your Umrah budget. Striking a balance between comfort and cost can make a significant difference. Just as with flights, picking smart hotel options can help you save without compromising too much on convenience.

Here’s a breakdown of average accommodation costs by district:

For those looking to save, areas like Al Aziziyah offer more affordable rates compared to districts closer to the Haram, while still providing essential amenities.

Tips for Saving on Accommodation

• Look for meal-inclusive packages: Hotels offering half-board options (breakfast and dinner) can help you manage food expenses effectively.
• Shuttle services: Opt for hotels that provide free shuttle services to and from the Haram, saving both time and transport costs.
• Consider 3-star hotels: These are often located about 1,000 metres from the Haram and offer a comfortable stay at much lower prices.

In districts like Al Aziziyah or Al Naseem, budget-friendly accommodations can start at around £20 per night. These hotels often include perks such as complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast, and they maintain good connectivity to the Haram through frequent shuttle services.

Features to Prioritise in a Hotel

• Free breakfast and Wi-Fi
• On-site laundry facilities
• Shuttle services to the Haram
• Flexible meal plans (e.g., half-board or full-board options)

4. Book as a Group

Booking as a group is another smart way to reduce expenses while planning your trip. Travelling with others not only enhances the experience but also helps secure discounts on flights, accommodation, and tours.

Benefits of Group Packages

Group packages are a cost-effective option, typically priced between £1,600 and £3,200 per person. These packages often include:

• Round-trip flights
• Hotel stays
• Inter-city transport
• Guided tours
• Most meals
• Visa processing

By bundling these services, group packages offer a more economical alternative to booking everything separately.

Tips for Maximising Group Discounts

Travelling with a larger group, booking early, and splitting shared costs can unlock even greater savings. Early planning allows you to:

• Secure better group rates
• Choose your preferred travel dates
• Coordinate visa applications smoothly
• Avoid last-minute seasonal price hikes

These steps ensure a well-organised and budget-friendly trip.

How to Organise Group Travel

Effective coordination is key to a successful group trip. Use group chats to stay connected, assign specific roles to manage tasks, and share important documents digitally. Maintaining a shared itinerary ensures everyone stays on the same page. Additionally, splitting costs for local guides or group meals can lead to further savings.

Group travel is particularly beneficial for first-time travellers, as it often includes expert guidance. Many experienced Umrah groups have long-standing relationships with airlines and hotels, securing better rates that benefit all participants.

These group travel strategies work hand in hand with other cost-saving measures to make your Umrah trip both affordable and memorable.

5. Cut Transport Expenses

Managing transport costs can make a big difference to your Umrah budget. By using affordable local and intercity travel options, you can keep expenses in check while ensuring a smooth journey.

Local Transportation Options

The Makkah Bus system is a reliable and budget-friendly way to get around the city. With 12 routes and over 450 bus stops operating 24/7, it’s a convenient option for travellers. You can also download the Makkah Bus mobile app to track buses in real time and plan your trips efficiently.

For getting to sacred sites, here are some affordable transport choices:

If you’re travelling between cities, there are additional cost-effective options to consider.

Intercity Travel Solutions

The Haramain High-Speed Railway is a quick and comfortable way to travel between Makkah and Madinah. It cuts the travel time from 5 hours to just 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from £10 to £60, depending on the class you choose. Booking in advance through the HHR app can help you find better deals.

Tips for Saving on Transport

• Plan intercity travel during off-peak hours to save money.
• Use ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber to compare prices and find the best rates.
• Consider the SAPTCO bus service for affordable intercity travel options.

Walking: A Zero-Cost Option

For places close to your accommodation, walking can be an excellent way to save money and stay active. Many sacred sites are within walking distance of central hotels. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and plan your walks during cooler times of the day to stay comfortable.

6. Save on Food Costs

Cutting down on food expenses doesn't mean compromising on quality or taste. With a bit of planning and savvy choices, you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.

Affordable Dining Options

If you're looking for budget-friendly meals near the Haram, there are plenty of options offering local flavours at reasonable prices. Here's what you can expect:

One standout option is Al Baik, a well-loved fast-food chain offering complete meals for about £5.30. Known for its crispy fried chicken and shrimp, it's a hit with both locals and visitors. With multiple locations close to the Haram, it's a convenient and affordable choice, especially for families.

Local Budget-Friendly Restaurants

For those eager to try authentic local dishes, several affordable restaurants are worth exploring:

• Al Tazaj: Located near Quba Mosque, this spot is famous for its grilled chicken seasoned with Arabic spices.
• Al Qramoshi: A great place to enjoy traditional breakfast items like foul, tamees, and shakshouka.
• Shawarma Factory: Perfect for quick, flavour-packed shawarma meals.
• Kudu: Offers a variety of affordable sandwiches and breakfast options.

Smart Meal Planning

If your accommodation includes a kitchen, cooking some of your meals can save you a lot. Local supermarkets are stocked with fresh, reasonably priced ingredients, making it easy to prepare delicious meals. Additionally, packing snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit can help you avoid pricey impulse buys when you're out and about.

Digital Tools for Savings

Food delivery apps can be a fantastic way to save money and find deals. Some popular ones include:

• Talabat: Frequently features discounts and promotions (rated 4.5/5 on the App Store).
• Mrsool: Lets you compare delivery costs to find the cheapest option.
• ToYou: Introduced a Buy Now Pay Later feature in 2023, which can help with budgeting.

Package Meal Plans

Consider booking Umrah packages that include meals. Many hotels provide breakfast buffets, and some packages cover all daily meals. This not only simplifies your planning but also helps keep food costs predictable and manageable during your trip.

7. Get Better Exchange Rates

The exchange rate between British pounds (GBP) and Saudi riyals (SAR) can have a noticeable impact on your Umrah expenses. By planning ahead and using the right tools, you can make the most of your currency conversion and save money.

Best Time to Exchange

Exchange rates can vary significantly, even within a single week. Here's a snapshot of recent rates to help you understand the fluctuations:

Timing your exchange during favourable rates can add up to meaningful savings.

Where to Exchange

In the UK:

• Sainsbury's Bank: Offers 0% commission, with even better rates for Nectar members.
• Asda Money: Provides free delivery for orders over £500.
• eurochange: Free home delivery on orders exceeding £600.

While these physical locations offer convenience, blending them with digital options can help you secure even better rates.

Currency Apps

Digital platforms are increasingly popular for their competitive rates and low fees. Here are two standout options:

• Revolut: Highly rated (4.9/5 on iOS) for its ease of use and competitive rates.
• Wise: Known for transparent pricing and detailed rate comparisons.

"We collect fees and rates from the most popular money transfer providers - so you don't have to. We calculate the full price you'll pay when sending GBP to SAR with each provider - including the hidden markup in the exchange rate." – Wise

Using apps like these can simplify the process and ensure you're getting a fair deal.

Money-Saving Tips

To stretch your budget further, consider these practical tips:

• Use currency converter apps to track live rates and set alerts for favourable changes.
• Steer clear of exchange services in tourist-heavy areas, as they often charge higher fees.
• Plan ahead and order your currency in advance to lock in better rates.
• When paying in Saudi Arabia, choose to pay in SAR to avoid additional conversion fees.

These steps can help you keep more of your money while travelling.

Important Considerations

If you're carrying more than SR60,000 in cash, be sure to declare it upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, always compare rates from multiple providers before exchanging larger amounts to minimise fees and maximise value.

Pro Tip: Let your bank know your travel dates to prevent any issues with card usage while abroad.

Taking the time to optimise your currency exchange strategy is a small effort that can lead to big savings, reinforcing your overall financial planning for Umrah.

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8. Pack Smart and Shop Less

Packing wisely and shopping thoughtfully can help you keep your Umrah expenses in check by avoiding excess baggage fees and unnecessary spending.

Essential Packing Strategies

When it comes to packing, prioritise versatile and lightweight clothing made from breathable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that are easy to wash and quick to dry. Here are a few tips to make the most of your luggage space:

• Use packing cubes to compress your clothes and keep things organised.
• Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimise wrinkles.
• Opt for travel-sized toiletries or solid alternatives like shampoo bars.
• Wear your heaviest clothing and shoes during travel to reduce the weight of your luggage.

By packing efficiently, you'll not only save money but also make your trip more convenient.

Smart Shopping Guidelines

Being mindful about shopping can further help you stick to your budget. Plan your souvenir purchases ahead of time to avoid overspending. Some popular shopping spots include:

• Shops near hotels close to Haram in Makkah
• Markets along Ibrahim Khalil Road
• Local bazaars in Madinah

Price Guide for Common Souvenirs

Here's a quick reference for typical prices to help you plan your purchases:

Money-Saving Tips

• Make a shopping list and set a budget for each item.
• Dedicate a specific day for shopping so you can focus on worship for the rest of your trip.
• Buy essentials like toiletries locally to avoid extra costs.
• Choose lightweight and practical souvenirs that are easy to carry.
• Prioritise items with spiritual significance over purely decorative ones.

Customs Considerations

If you're planning to purchase food items, be aware of customs restrictions, as some items may not be allowed upon your return. Always keep receipts and ensure your purchases comply with airline and customs regulations.

Pro Tip: Free up space for souvenirs by discarding older clothes during your journey. This also lightens your luggage for the return trip.

9. Track Your Spending

Keeping an eye on your daily Umrah expenses can feel overwhelming, but modern apps make it much easier to stay on top of your budget.

Digital Tracking Solutions

Here are some handy apps to help you manage your spending:

Essential Expense Categories

When budgeting, it helps to break down your spending into key categories:

Daily Meals

• Local eateries: SAR 20–40 (around £4–£9)
• Street food: SAR 8–20 (around £2–£4)
• Fast food: SAR 15–30 (around £3–£6)

Transportation
Save receipts for shared taxis or public transport. For example, a shared taxi to Masjid Aisha typically costs SAR 10 (about £2) per person for a round trip.

These categories can serve as a guide when setting your spending limits.

Tracking Practices

Here are some tips for staying on top of your budget:

• Start Before You Leave
  Record pre-trip costs like visa fees, flights, and accommodation to get a clear idea of your remaining budget.
• Stick to Local Currency
  Track your spending in Saudi Riyals (SAR) to avoid confusion caused by exchange rates.
• Review Daily
  Spend five minutes each evening reviewing your expenses to spot areas where you might be overspending.

Money-Saving Features

Many expense tracking apps come with tools that can help you save:

• Receipt scanning and auto-categorisation simplify the tracking process.
• Cash flow forecasting gives you a clearer picture of your spending habits.

Try using your chosen app for a week before your trip to ensure you’re comfortable with it.

Practical Cost Control

Here’s a quick guide to setting daily budgets:

With 75% of smartphone users now relying on at least one finance app to manage their money, these tools can make budgeting during your journey much easier. Up next, we’ll explore how comprehensive packages can simplify your financial planning even further.

10. Book All-Inclusive Packages

Building on your previous cost-saving efforts, consider booking an all-inclusive Umrah package. These packages not only help reduce expenses but also simplify the often-complicated process of travel planning.

Package Options and What They Offer

All-inclusive packages come in different tiers to suit varying budgets and preferences. Budget options typically include basic accommodation, standard flights, and essential transfers. On the other hand, premium packages offer upgraded hotels, more flexible flight schedules, and additional services for a more comfortable and seamless journey.

Why All-Inclusive Packages Save Money

Opting for an all-inclusive package can often be more economical than booking each component separately. These packages provide:

• Discounts through bulk bookings and established travel partnerships
• Savings from bundling services like flights, hotels, and transfers
• Fixed pricing that shields you from unexpected costs or currency fluctuations

Key Inclusions to Look For

When assessing packages, ensure they cover the essentials:

• Visa processing and associated fees
• Return flights
• Hotel stays
• Transfers between cities and airports

Booking Tips to Maximise Savings

To get the most value from your package:

• Book well in advance to secure the best rates
• Opt for off-peak travel dates, as they tend to be more affordable
• Look for group packages, which often reduce the cost per person

Avoiding Hidden Costs

Salah Travels highlights the importance of choosing the right package wisely:

"A good choice of the right package will provide you with time to concentrate more on your spiritual matters while in Umrah instead of wasting time with other issues associated with it."

However, be mindful of potential additional expenses, such as:

• Extra baggage fees
• Optional tours or excursions
• Meals, if not included in the package
• Tips and local transport costs

Location Matters: Accommodation Proximity

When finalising your package, consider the location of your accommodation. Hotels closer to the Haram offer the convenience of walking to sacred sites, while properties farther away are often more budget-friendly. Carefully balance cost against convenience to find the option that suits your needs best.

Cost Overview Table

Here's a detailed breakdown of Umrah package costs for 2025 to help you plan your budget effectively. Prices vary depending on the season and availability, so it's worth considering these factors when booking.

Typical Package Costs by Duration and Hotel Rating

Seasonal Price Variations

Package Types and Inclusions

Tips to Save Money:

• Travelling during the shoulder season often provides better value for money.
• Compare the cost of different package durations – longer stays may offer lower costs per night.
• Group bookings can lead to additional savings, so consider travelling with family or friends.

This cost guide complements earlier advice, offering clear figures to help you budget and plan your trip wisely.

Important Note:
Prices, as of May 2025, include return flights, accommodation, transfers, and visa assistance. However, they may change depending on availability and market conditions. Always confirm the latest rates when booking.

Summary

This section brings together essential strategies to help you plan a spiritually fulfilling and budget-conscious Umrah journey. By blending thoughtful financial planning with spiritual readiness, you can focus on what truly matters.

Travelling during off-peak seasons can significantly reduce costs. Choosing 3-star accommodations and travelling in the shoulder season strikes a balance between saving money and maintaining comfort, ensuring your spiritual focus remains undisturbed.

Here are some practical tips to manage expenses effectively:

• Travel in groups to share costs
• Use public transport for intercity travel
• Plan meals carefully and pack only the essentials

"When it comes to travel, many people consider about its expenses. Because too many costs make your budget high if you don't plan." – Shaykh Umar Hassan

FAQs

What are the advantages of choosing an all-inclusive Umrah package instead of planning the trip yourself?

Choosing an all-inclusive Umrah package comes with several benefits that can make your pilgrimage smoother and more focused. These packages take care of essential arrangements, including visa processing, accommodation, transportation, and sometimes even guided services. This means you can dedicate your energy to the spiritual aspects of the journey, without the stress of handling logistics.

Another advantage is the potential to save money. By bundling services, these packages are often more affordable than organising each part of the trip separately. They also typically include accommodation close to the holy sites, adding an extra layer of convenience and comfort. For first-time pilgrims or those less familiar with the region, these packages provide much-needed support and reassurance, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

What’s the best way to get great exchange rates when converting GBP to SAR for my Umrah trip?

How to Get the Best Exchange Rates for Your Umrah Trip

If you're converting British pounds (£) to Saudi riyals (SAR) for your Umrah journey, a little planning can go a long way in securing better rates. Here are some practical tips to help you save:

• Stick to banks or trusted currency exchange providers. They typically offer better rates compared to airport kiosks or smaller, less reliable outlets.
• Order your currency online ahead of time. Online rates are often more competitive than what you'll find in physical stores.
• Keep an eye on exchange rates. Timing matters - exchange your money when the rates are in your favour.
• Steer clear of airport exchanges. These tend to charge higher fees and offer less competitive rates.

By preparing in advance and comparing your options, you can stretch your travel budget further and focus on your spiritual journey.

How can I manage and track my expenses during an Umrah trip to stay within budget?

To keep your Umrah trip within budget, start by crafting a clear budget plan that includes all major expenses like flights, accommodation, meals, transport, and any other costs. Assign specific amounts to each category and make an effort to stick to these limits to prevent overspending.

Consider using mobile apps or a simple spreadsheet to monitor your daily expenses. This way, you can keep track of your spending as you go. Carry a mix of payment options, such as cash in Saudi Riyals and a credit or debit card, to ensure both flexibility and security. It's also a good idea to set aside an emergency fund for any unexpected costs, allowing you to focus on your pilgrimage without financial worries.

Finally, booking your flights and accommodation well in advance can often help you find better deals, cutting down on last-minute expenses.