Top Airlines for Luxury Umrah Travel

Planning your Umrah journey? Choosing the right airline can make a world of difference. From comfort to convenience, premium airlines offer tailored services to ensure a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage. Here's a quick look at the top options:

• British Airways: Direct flights from the UK, spacious First Class suites, and generous baggage allowances.
• Qatar Airways: Award-winning Business Class with QSuites, halal dining, and special Hajj kits.
• Emirates: Luxurious First Class suites with private showers, Hajj kits, and seamless transit via Dubai.
• Etihad Airways: Innovative cabin designs, including First Class on shorter routes, and premium amenities.
• Turkish Airlines: Excellent value, Flying Chefs for onboard dining, and free Istanbul stopovers.
• Oman Air: Boutique luxury with exclusive First Class suites and Sharia-compliant Umrah packages.

Quick Comparison:

Airline	Cabin Classes	Key Strengths	Limitations	Premium Baggage Allowance
British Airways	Economy, Premium, Business, First	Direct UK flights, familiar service	Ageing cabins	Up to 32kg x 3 bags
Qatar Airways	Economy, Business, First	Award-winning service, modern fleet	No direct UK flights	Up to 50kg
Emirates	Economy, Premium, Business, First	Innovative amenities, great entertainment	Longer journey via Dubai	Up to 32kg
Etihad Airways	Economy, Business, First	Cutting-edge cabins	Limited UK frequencies	Up to 50kg
Turkish Airlines	Economy, Business	Good value, Istanbul stopovers	Longer journey times	Standard allowances
Oman Air	Economy, Business, First	Personalised service, Sharia-compliant packages	Limited network	Competitive allowances

Each airline offers unique benefits, so your choice will depend on your priorities - comfort, direct routes, or value. Book early to secure the best fares and focus on your spiritual journey.

1. British Airways

British Airways, the national carrier of the UK, has made travel to Saudi Arabia more convenient by expanding its services. From November 2024, the airline will operate a new daily service to Jeddah, running year-round. Additionally, a four-times-weekly service to Jeddah has been reinstated to cater to increasing demand.

Cabin Classes

British Airways offers a range of cabin options to suit different travel preferences. First Class provides a luxurious experience with private suites featuring 36.5-inch wide seats that transform into 79-inch fully flat beds. Passengers also enjoy exclusive lounge access, gourmet dining, and dedicated service.

"First is our most luxurious way to experience flight. From your own stylish suite, to exclusive access to lounges, fast-track security, and excellent service, it's the finest way to travel." – British Airways

In Club World (Business Class), seats convert into fully flat beds and come with lounge access, priority check-in, and upgraded dining options. For those seeking extra comfort without the full business class price, World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy) offers 7 inches more legroom than Economy, wider seats in a quieter cabin, and priority boarding.

In-Flight Amenities

Premium passengers can enjoy a range of thoughtful in-flight features. These include a 12-inch touchscreen entertainment system, noise-cancelling headphones, in-seat power outlets, and a carefully curated amenity kit. The dining experience begins with sparkling wine after takeoff, followed by a three-course meal featuring a starter, main course, and dessert. The amenity kit includes essentials like socks, an eye mask, lip balm, a pen, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. Earplugs are also available upon request.

Route Options

British Airways offers direct flights from London Heathrow to both Jeddah and Riyadh. The journey to Jeddah takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, while flights to Riyadh take about 6 hours and 30 minutes. The direct route to Jeddah is particularly convenient for travellers heading to Makkah.

Fares for June 2025 reflect the airline's premium service. Economy tickets for Jeddah start at £500, while business class fares begin at £1,799. For Riyadh, economy fares start at £555, with business class tickets priced from £2,350.

Baggage Allowance

British Airways provides generous baggage allowances tailored to different travel needs. Economy passengers can check one bag weighing up to 23kg and bring a handbag or laptop case on board. Business class travellers enjoy an enhanced allowance of two checked bags, each weighing up to 32kg, which is ideal for longer trips or Umrah requirements.

"World Traveller Plus' generous baggage allowance means you can pack more for your trip. Bring both a cabin bag and laptop or handbag on board, as well as up to two bags in the hold." – British Airways

With British Airways offering a premium travel experience, let’s now explore what Qatar Airways brings to the table.

2. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways stands out as a preferred airline for Umrah travellers, earning the title of the World's Best Airline 2024. The airline offers services specifically designed to cater to the needs of Umrah pilgrims.

Cabin Classes

Qatar Airways offers two premium cabin options that prioritise comfort and luxury. Business Class features the renowned QSuite, known for its sliding doors that ensure privacy and seats that can be converted into a double bed. First Class, on the other hand, provides even more space and exclusivity, elevating the luxurious experience already offered by the QSuite in Business Class.

"Qatar Airways Business Class offers a unique experience that stands out among its competitors. Travelers can enjoy luxurious seating, gourmet meals, and exceptional service that redefine in-flight comfort." - VisaGuideQatar.com

The airline's Business Class was awarded the World's Best Business Class title by Skytrax in both 2023 and 2024.

In-Flight Amenities

In 2025, Qatar Airways introduced a specially designed Hajj kit for pilgrims. This kit includes a prayer mat, a tasbih pouch with a digital counter, wet wipes, and anti-skid socks, all neatly packed in a drawstring pouch.

Passengers can also enjoy halal dining options throughout their journey, ensuring their dietary needs are met. For entertainment, the Oryx One system offers an impressive selection of up to 8,000 options, while onboard Wi‑Fi is available on the A380, A350, B787, and selected B777 aircraft.

Route Options

Qatar Airways connects five UK airports - London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh - to Saudi Arabia via its hub in Doha. The airline operates 56 weekly flights to Saudi destinations, including 35 to Jeddah, 17 to Medina, and 4 to Taif. Additionally, Hamad International Airport in Doha provides 21 prayer rooms equipped with ablution facilities.

Baggage Allowance

The airline offers generous baggage allowances, including the option to carry up to 5 litres of Zamzam water.

Next, we’ll delve into how Emirates uses its Dubai hub to enhance the Umrah travel experience.

3. Emirates

Emirates stands out as a premium option for Umrah travellers, offering award-winning First Class services that cater to the unique needs of pilgrims. Operating from several UK airports, the airline combines luxury with thoughtful services designed to enhance the journey to Saudi Arabia.

Cabin Classes

Emirates provides four distinct cabin classes:

• First Class: Features private suites with exclusive amenities, including an onboard shower spa on A380 aircraft, delivering a truly private and luxurious experience.
• Business Class: Offers lie-flat seats, gourmet dining options, and access to lounges on A380 flights.
• Premium Economy: Upgrades the standard experience with enhanced seating, extra legroom, and improved comfort.
• Economy Class: Ensures a pleasant journey with comprehensive in-flight entertainment and attentive service.

In-Flight Amenities

Every passenger receives a Hajj kit, which includes items like prayer beads, a water bottle, socks, and a prayer mat. On special Hajj flights, additional ablution facilities and unperfumed towels are provided. Premium Economy passengers enjoy upgraded in-flight entertainment and eco-friendly amenity kits, while the airline also serves special Eid menus featuring traditional dishes across all cabin classes.

For flights heading to Saudi Arabia, Emirates makes announcements upon entering Al Miqat zones and ensures ablution facilities are available in the lavatories.

Route Options

Emirates operates from seven UK airports and offers dedicated Hajj and Umrah flights to Jeddah and Medina. During Ramadan, the airline adds extra services and provides specialist transit assistance at its Dubai hub. A dedicated Hajj team is available to support passengers during transit, and Emirates recommends allowing up to five hours for connecting flights through Dubai. This seamless transit experience reflects the airline’s commitment to making the journey as smooth as possible.

Baggage Allowance

Passengers are allowed to carry up to five litres of Zamzam water, properly packaged, in addition to their standard baggage allowance.

Next, we’ll look at how Etihad Airways uses its Abu Dhabi hub to deliver luxurious services for Umrah travellers.

4. Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways has carved out a niche as a luxury airline catering to Umrah travellers. The airline has invested heavily in offering premium cabin experiences, including introducing cutting-edge aircraft designs that bring first-class comfort to shorter routes.

Cabin Classes

Etihad Airways provides four cabin options: Economy, Business, First, and The Residence.

In May 2025, Etihad unveiled its A321LR aircraft, equipped with First Class suites on a narrowbody plane designed for short and medium-haul journeys. These suites feature fully flat beds measuring approximately 200 cm (78.65 inches), 20-inch 4K entertainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless charging. The aircraft began operations on 1 August 2025, with two First Class suites arranged in a 1-1 layout.

First Class passengers enjoy exclusive ground services such as Etihad Concierge, private chauffeur transfers, dedicated check-in counters, personal escorts, and access to the First Class Lounge. These features highlight Etihad's commitment to delivering luxury, even on shorter routes.

In-Flight Amenities

Etihad's E-BOX entertainment system provides access to a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, and sports, with streaming available on A320 and A321 flights. Wi-Fi is available for purchase, and Etihad Guest members can access complimentary chat packages. The airline also publishes an exclusive in-flight magazine, Beyond.

Economy passengers receive amenity kits featuring Beekman 1802 hand cream, noise-cancelling earplugs, and an eye mask, all packed in a practical tote bag. Business Class travellers are treated to Giorgio Armani amenity bags containing ESPA essentials, deluxe Armani loungewear, and slippers. Additionally, ultra-long-haul flights include soft slippers and premium loungewear.

First Class and The Residence passengers are pampered with Giorgio Armani folios that include Armani sleepwear, slippers, and a curated ESPA cosmetics collection. This collection features hand cream, rest and recover balm, facial mist, lip treatment, and pulse point oil.

For families travelling with children, Etihad offers dedicated entertainment options. These include movies, cartoons, and games on a child-friendly interface, complete with parental lock features to ensure a worry-free experience for parents.

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5. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines is a top-tier option for those embarking on their Umrah journey, offering exceptional service from its Istanbul hub to over 315 global destinations. With a focus on comfort and convenience, the airline ensures a smooth and peaceful start to this sacred trip.

"Taking Turkish hospitality to the skies! In Business Class, we make your trip the most pleasurable experience, with award-winning dishes, the latest in-flight entertainment system, and comfortable seating." – Turkish Airlines

Cabin Classes

Turkish Airlines provides two cabin classes: Business and Economy. Business Class passengers enjoy seats that convert into a 193 cm lie-flat bed. On newer aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, the seating features a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access. Older aircraft, however, might still use the 2-3-2 layout.

Business Class perks include complimentary internet access (up to 1 GB), personal reading lamps, power outlets, and privacy screens. Additional benefits like priority check-in, lounge access, and increased baggage allowances are particularly useful for pilgrims bringing religious items or gifts.

Economy Class offers spacious seating with ample legroom, amenity kits, a variety of in-flight entertainment options, and high-quality meals. It’s a practical choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want a comfortable experience.

Next, let’s look at the in-flight amenities that make Turkish Airlines stand out for Umrah pilgrims.

In-Flight Amenities

The airline’s dining options are a highlight. Traditional dishes such as coal-fired kebab, grilled fish, homemade pasta, and ravioli are prepared by their Flying Chefs. Business Class passengers are treated to welcome drinks and a 'Dine on Demand' service during night flights.

Meals include unique touches like mocktails, detox drinks, local appetisers, and Turkish coffee served with Turkish delight. For Muslim travellers, special dietary requests can be made up to 24 hours before departure, ensuring a personalised dining experience.

Entertainment is available across all cabin classes through the Planet inflight system, which includes movies, music, games, and internet connectivity. This is particularly useful for long flights to Saudi Arabia.

Route Options

For passengers departing from the UK, Turkish Airlines offers excellent connectivity to Saudi Arabia. Flights operate from major airports such as London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh. Key destinations include Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina, with most routes connecting through Istanbul.

Economy return fares are competitively priced, starting at approximately £422 from London Gatwick to Dammam. Jeddah routes begin at around £496 from Gatwick and £527 from Heathrow, while Medina flights from Heathrow start at about £534. These options provide value for Umrah travellers.

The airline also offers a "Stopover in Istanbul" programme, which provides free hotel stays for passengers with long layovers. This allows Umrah pilgrims to explore Istanbul’s rich Islamic heritage, including its historic mosques and cultural landmarks, adding a meaningful layer to their journey.

Additionally, Turkish Airlines simplifies travel by assisting with Saudi e-visa applications. It also accepts Schengen, US, or UK visas for tourist entry. These visas are valid for one year, allow multiple entries, and permit stays of up to 90 days - perfect for extended Umrah visits. With competitive pricing and thoughtful services, Turkish Airlines makes premium Umrah travel both seamless and enriching.

6. Oman Air

Oman Air is a standout choice for Umrah travellers who value top-tier service and comfort. Known for its exceptional hospitality, the airline was awarded Best Airline Staff in the Middle East at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Their dedication to luxury is perfectly summed up in their tagline:

"Welcome to the Best Business Class Product in the Middle East" – Oman Air

This commitment to premium service is reflected in their cabin design and onboard amenities.

Cabin Classes

Oman Air caters to premium travellers with both First Class and Business Class options. The First Class experience is especially noteworthy, offering fully enclosed suites with sliding doors for added privacy. On the Boeing 787-9, the First Class cabin features a 1-2-1 configuration, with eight suites spread across two rows. However, this exclusive layout is available on only two of the airline's ten Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The Airbus A330 also offers a First Class cabin, but with slightly less privacy compared to the Boeing 787-9. The dimensions and design differ between the two aircraft. Additionally, First Class passengers departing from Muscat can enjoy exclusive lounges that include à la carte dining, complimentary spa treatments, and nap rooms.

In-Flight Amenities

Oman Air enhances the premium travel experience with a range of thoughtful in-flight amenities. On overnight flights, Business Class passengers are treated to pure cotton pyjamas, slippers, and high-quality bedding, including pillows, blankets, and mattress pads, along with a turndown service.

Passengers also receive luxury amenity kits by Amouage, containing lip balm, facial moisturiser, and cologne, while dental kits are provided in the lavatories. Entertainment is covered by the ARIA system, offering a wide variety of films and TV shows. Dining is a 'dine on demand' experience, with First Class passengers enjoying an elevated menu featuring caviar, Champagne, and a mix of Omani, Arabic, and international cuisines.

"Oman Air's business class amenities are among the best offered by any airline." – One Mile at a Time

Route Options

Oman Air's route network is another reason it appeals to Umrah travellers. For those flying from the UK, the airline operates flights from London and Manchester to Saudi Arabia, with convenient connections through Muscat (MCT). Key Umrah destinations, including Jeddah and Medina, are well-served.

Oman Air Holidays offers packages that combine flights, hotels, tours, and excursions. In December 2021, the airline partnered with Aeroplan, allowing passengers to book flights using Aeroplan points. A First Class award ticket costs 65,000 points plus approximately £63 in fees. Furthermore, Oman Air is set to join the Oneworld alliance in 2024, opening up even more redemption opportunities for frequent flyers.

For Muslim travellers, Oman Air Holidays has collaborated with Muzn, the National Bank of Oman's Islamic banking division, to provide Sharia-compliant financing plans for Umrah packages.

Advantages and Disadvantages

When planning your luxury Umrah journey, it’s helpful to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each airline. Each carrier offers distinct premium services, so understanding these differences can help you choose based on your specific needs. Below is a comparison of what each airline brings to the table.

British Airways is a convenient choice for travellers from the UK, offering direct flights from various British cities. Their First Class baggage allowance is particularly generous, allowing three bags at 32kg each, making it suitable for longer stays.

Qatar Airways is renowned for its award-winning service and offers a Business Class baggage allowance of up to 40kg, which increases to 50kg for First Class passengers. While its Doha hub ensures smooth connections to Saudi Arabia, the lack of direct flights from the UK and premium pricing may be factors to consider.

Emirates shines with its cutting-edge in-flight entertainment systems. Premium passengers in Business and First Class enjoy a 32kg baggage allowance. However, the longer travel time via Dubai might be less appealing for some.

Etihad Airways boasts innovative cabin designs and offers First Class travellers a baggage allowance of up to 50kg. Its Abu Dhabi hub provides efficient connections, but limited flight frequencies from the UK may restrict scheduling options.

Turkish Airlines offers excellent value and an extensive route network through Istanbul, with multiple daily flights. However, the longer journey times via Turkey could affect overall travel comfort.

Oman Air delivers a boutique, personalised service experience. However, its smaller network and fewer flights may limit options for UK travellers.

Airline	Cabin Classes	Key Strengths	Main Limitations	Baggage Allowance (Premium)
British Airways	Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First	Direct UK flights, familiar service	Ageing cabins	Generous baggage policy
Qatar Airways	Economy, Business, First	Award-winning service, modern fleet	No direct flights, premium pricing	Most generous allowances
Emirates	Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First	Innovative amenities, extensive entertainment	Longer journey via Dubai	Competitive allowances
Etihad Airways	Economy, Business, First	Cutting-edge cabin design	Limited frequencies, high fares	Premium baggage policy
Turkish Airlines	Economy, Business	Good value, multiple daily flights	Longer journey times	Standard allowances
Oman Air	Economy, Business, First	Exceptional personalised service	Limited network, fewer frequencies	Competitive allowances

To elevate the luxury Umrah experience, airlines are now offering exclusive services. Premium passengers can enjoy access to private airport lounges featuring gourmet dining and spa facilities, along with concierge support and tailored travel plans.

Additionally, most airlines provide extensive in-flight entertainment libraries, including content about Islamic history. There’s also a variety of TV series, puzzles, and strategy games to keep passengers entertained. Some carriers even include optional two-night stays in Istanbul, complete with breakfast at a 4-star hotel, as part of their premium packages.

Conclusion

Selecting the right airline for your luxury Umrah journey involves weighing comfort, convenience, and spiritual priorities. For pilgrims travelling from the UK, this choice will largely depend on your personal preferences and travel requirements.

Each airline offers distinct benefits. Some excel in providing award-winning service and dedicated prayer spaces, while others might appeal with familiar comforts or competitive pricing - though travel durations can differ.

Booking early is key to securing the best fares and avoiding last-minute stress. Services like UmrahDeals simplify the process by offering comprehensive packages that include flights, accommodation, and personalised support, allowing you to focus entirely on your spiritual experience. Don’t forget to confirm halal meal options and the availability of prayer facilities when making your booking.

When choosing an airline, think beyond just the ticket price. Consider the overall travel experience, including comfort, flight schedules, prayer accessibility, and baggage policies. With 13.5 million Muslims performing Umrah in 2023, booking early ensures a smooth journey that combines luxury, practicality, and spiritual peace.

Pick an airline that not only meets your travel needs but also respects the sacred nature of your Umrah journey.

FAQs

What should I consider when selecting an airline for a luxurious Umrah journey?

When organising a luxurious Umrah trip, choosing the right airline plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Focus on airlines that offer comfort, convenience, and top-tier services. Features like spacious seating, high-quality in-flight dining, and attentive service in business or first class can make a significant difference. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Saudia are popular choices, offering direct flights to Jeddah or Madinah to save time and reduce travel complications.

Equally important are punctuality and safety, which contribute to a stress-free journey. If you're aiming for a more refined travel experience, premium carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways are known for their exceptional amenities, including lie-flat seats, gourmet cuisine, and access to exclusive lounges. These features ensure your journey is as relaxing as it is efficient.

What in-flight services and amenities do airlines provide for Umrah pilgrims?

Airlines catering to Umrah pilgrims aim to provide services that make the journey both comfortable and spiritually fulfilling. Many flights include halal meals, assistance with prayer arrangements, and a peaceful atmosphere that supports reflection and devotion. Some even offer onboard prayer spaces or guidance to help passengers observe religious practices during the flight.

Leading carriers like Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways take these offerings further. They provide luxury seating, upgraded meal options, and attentive service designed to address the specific needs of pilgrims. These personalised touches allow travellers to focus on their spiritual preparation while enjoying a smooth and restful journey.

Can I bring Zamzam water or other religious items on my flight for Umrah?

Most airlines permit passengers to carry Zamzam water, but there are usually specific rules to follow. Generally, you can take up to 5 litres in a sealed container, as long as it is packed separately. However, placing it in checked luggage is often not allowed due to safety regulations. To avoid any complications, always check your airline's most recent guidelines before travelling.