The Importance of Budgeting for Umrah 2025
Performing Umrah is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey, but the costs can quickly increase. From flights and hotel stays to visa fees and transportation, pilgrims often spend more than expected.
This guide unveils seven expert-backed money-saving hacks that could save you hundreds, if not thousands, on your Umrah journey in 2025. These hacks are designed to provide you with a sense of relief, knowing that you can find affordable Umrah packages for a smooth and comfortable experience.
What Defines a “Cheap” Umrah Package?
It’s crucial to note that not all ‘cheap’ Umrah packages offer the same value. Some may be budget-friendly but lack essential services, while others balance affordability and quality. Understanding the pricing process is key to making an informed decision and feeling in control for a satisfying Umrah experience.
Key Factors That Impact Umrah Package Prices
✅ Seasonality: Umrah costs fluctuate throughout the year. Peak seasons (Ramadan, school holidays, and December) see high demand and increased prices, while off-peak months (Muharram, Safar, and Rajab) offer much lower rates.
✅ Hotel Location: Staying within 300 meters of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or near Gate 25 of Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah significantly increases package costs. Budget travelers can save by opting for hotels 500-800 meters away with free shuttle services.
✅ Package Inclusions: Many “cheap” Umrah deals exclude meals, private transport, or visa processing to cut costs. Check what’s included before booking.
✅ Group Size Discounts: Group Umrah packages offer discounts for families and large groups, bringing down the overall cost per person.
Economy vs. Premium Umrah Packages
| Feature | Economy Package | Premium Package |
| Hotel Distance | 500m – 1.5km from Haram | 100 – 300m from Haram |
| Accommodation | 3-star budget hotels | 4-5 star luxury hotels |
| Meals | Not included/self-paid | Buffet meals included |
| Transportation | Shared buses | Private VIP transport |
| Flight Options | Economy class | Business class |
| Price Range (per person) | $900 – $1,500 | $2,500+ |
Is a Premium Package Worth the Upgrade?
✅ If luxury, convenience, and a closer stay to the Haram matter, premium packages are ideal.
✅ If budget is a concern, economy packages offer a comfortable experience at half the cost.
DIY Umrah vs. All-Inclusive Packages: Which One is Cheaper?
Some pilgrims book flights and hotels and transport separately (DIY Umrah), while others prefer an all-inclusive Umrah package from travel agencies.
DIY Umrah (Book Everything Separately)
✔️ Pros:
- More flexibility in choosing flights, hotels, and transport.
- Potential to save up to 20-30% if booked early.
❌ Cons:
- Requires handling visa processing, transport, and logistics independently.
- Can be stressful for first-time travelers.
All-Inclusive Umrah Packages
✔️ Pros:
- Hassle-free, covering flights, hotels, visas, transport, and guidance.
- Ideal for families and first-time pilgrims.
❌ Cons:
- More expensive, especially in peak seasons.
For budget-conscious travelers, DIY Umrah can save money but requires planning. However, for a stress-free experience, an all-inclusive package is the best option.
Best Time to Book Cheap Umrah Packages 2025
Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel Costs
Umrah prices fluctuate throughout the year, with peak seasons significantly increasing costs due to high demand.
| Travel Period | Price Range (Per Person) | Reason for Price Fluctuation |
| Ramadan | $2,500 – $4,000+ | Extremely high demand, premium hotel rates, limited availability. |
| December Holidays | $2,000 – $3,500 | School holidays, increased travel from Western countries. |
| Hajj Season (2 months before/after Hajj) | $1,800 – $3,000 | Many pilgrims extend their stay after Hajj, raising demand. |
| Off-Peak Months (Muharram, Safar, Rajab, Shawwal, Dhul Qa’dah) | $900 – $1,500 | Lower demand, cheaper flights & hotels, more availability. |
Best time to book for the lowest prices:
✔️ Off-peak months (Muharram, Safar, Rajab, Shawwal, Dhul Qa’dah) offer up to 50% savings.
✔️ Avoid peak times like Ramadan and school holidays unless you book well in advance.
Early Bird Discounts – Save Up to 30%
Booking early is one of the best money-saving strategies for Umrah. Many agencies release discounted packages 1-2 months in advance.
✅ Benefits of Early Booking:
- Up to 30% cheaper than last-minute deals.
- More hotel options, including closer accommodations to the Haram.
- Greater flexibility with flights and travel dates.
Last-Minute Deals – Are They Worth the Risk?
While last-minute deals can sometimes save money, they come with risks.
✅ Possible Savings: Some travel agencies reduce prices by 15-20% if they have unsold spots.
❌ Risks: Limited hotel options, non-refundable bookings, and higher airfare costs cancel out savings.
If you’re on a budget, last-minute Umrah deals are only worth it if you are flexible with travel dates and accommodations.
Where to Look for Budget-Friendly Umrah Packages
UK-Based vs. Saudi-Based Travel Agencies
Many UK-based travel agencies offer convenient all-inclusive Umrah packages, but Saudi-based agencies often provide cheaper options.
| Agency Type | Average Package Cost | Pros | Cons |
| UK-Based Agencies | $1,500 – $3,500 | Includes flights, easier visa processing, support in English | Higher prices due to additional services. |
| Saudi-Based Agencies | $900 – $2,500 | Lower prices, more local hotel options | Without flight inclusion, visa processing might be complex for non-Arabic speakers. |
If you’re comfortable booking flights separately, Saudi-based agencies can offer up to 40% discounts on accommodation and transport.
Using Online Travel Portals & Comparison Sites to Find Deals
Many online travel websites help compare prices across different Umrah package providers:
🔹 Skyscanner & Google Flights: Find the cheapest flights to Jeddah or Madinah.
🔹 Booking.com & Agoda: Book hotels near the Haram at discounted rates.
🔹 Islamic travel agencies’ websites: Many agencies run limited-time promotions.
Booking each component separately through these platforms can sometimes be cheaper than full-package deals.
Group Bookings: Why Traveling with Family & Friends Saves Money
Many Umrah agencies offer group discounts, making it a cost-effective option for families and friends.
✔️ Shared accommodations (quad rooms) reduce per-person hotel costs.
✔️ Group transportation is cheaper than booking private cars.
✔️ Some travel agencies offer special group discounts of 10-15%.
Best Time to Book Cheap Umrah Packages 2025
Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel Costs
Umrah prices fluctuate throughout the year, with costs varying based on demand. Booking at the right time can help save up to 50%.
| Travel Period | Average Cost (Per Person) | Best Booking Strategy |
| Ramadan | £1,800 – £3,500 | Book at least 6 months in advance for better rates. |
| December Holidays | £1,600 – £3,200 | Prices surge due to school holidays – early booking is essential. |
| Off-Peak Months | £1,000 – £1,500 | Travel during Shawwal, Muharram, or Safar for the lowest prices. |
Madinah Tours offers exclusive off-peak discounts to help UK travelers find affordable Umrah packages. Whether you’re departing from Birmingham, London, Manchester, Glasgow, or Edinburgh, explore cost-effective deals here: Explore Affordable Umrah Packages.
Early Bird Discounts – Save Up to 30%
Booking 1-2 months in advance can significantly reduce your Umrah package cost. Many providers release discounted packages early, allowing you to:
✔️ Secure lower prices before demand spikes.
✔️ Get better accommodation options near the Haram.
✔️ Lock in cheaper flight rates before airline fares rise.
Madinah Tours specializes in early bird Umrah packages that offer maximum savings. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a solo journey, check out their latest discounted offers: Cheapest Umrah Packages UK.
Last-Minute Deals: Are They Worth It?
While last-minute Umrah bookings can sometimes be cheaper, they often come with higher risks:
✅ You might find a lower-cost package if agencies need to fill empty slots.
❌ Flights can be more expensive, making the overall package costlier.
❌ Limited hotel availability may result in inconvenient locations far from the Haram.
For flexible yet affordable options, Madinah Tours offers last-minute and pre-booked Umrah deals to suit different budgets. Find Affordable Umrah Packages in the UK.
Where to Look for Budget-Friendly Umrah Packages
UK-Based vs. Saudi-Based Travel Agencies
Many UK pilgrims struggle to decide between booking through a UK-based travel agency or a Saudi-based provider. Here’s a comparison:
| Agency Type | Pros | Cons | Best for |
| UK-Based (e.g., Madinah Tours) | Includes flights, visa, hotels, and transport. Offers financial protection (ATOL & IATA certified). | Slightly higher cost due to complete services. | First-time travelers, families, and those who prefer hassle-free booking. |
| Saudi-Based | Potentially cheaper for hotel-only bookings. | No flights are included, and visa processing may be tricky for non-Arabic speakers. | Experienced travelers comfortable booking flights separately. |
Madinah Tours provides stress-free, all-inclusive Umrah packages, ensuring travelers get the best value without booking multiple services separately. Standard Umrah Packages offer comprehensive services at competitive rates.
Using Online Travel Portals & Comparison Sites to Find Deals
For those who prefer researching prices online, various travel websites can help:
🔹 Google Flights & Skyscanner: Find the cheapest flights from UK airports to Jeddah or Madinah.
🔹 Madinah Tours’ Website: Direct access to exclusive Umrah deals unavailable on third-party sites.
Instead of booking flights, hotels, and visas separately, Madinah Tours simplifies the process with cost-effective Umrah bundles.
Group Bookings: Save More
Group Umrah bookings can reduce costs significantly:
✔️ Shared accommodations (quad rooms) lower hotel expenses.
✔️ Group transport is cheaper than booking private transfers.
✔️ Some agencies offer special group discounts (5-10% off).
Madinah Tours offers tailored group packages for families and community groups for a smooth and affordable journey. For flexible travel options, explore group-friendly monthly Umrah packages.
7 Money-Saving Hacks for Cheap Umrah Packages 2025
Performing Umrah is a spiritually enriching experience, but the cost can increase quickly. From flights to accommodation and daily expenses, pilgrims often spend more than expected. However, thoughtful planning and strategic booking can help you save hundreds of pounds on your Umrah trip.
Here are seven proven hacks to book an affordable Umrah package in 2025 without compromising comfort.
1. Book Your Flights Separately for Better Deals
Many travelers assume that booking an all-inclusive Umrah package is always cheaper. However, securing your flights separately can often save money.
🔹 Compare Airlines: Budget-friendly airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Saudia, and Qatar Airways often have discounted flights for Umrah.
🔹 Layovers vs. Direct Flights: A one-stop flight (e.g., via Istanbul or Doha) can be up to 30% cheaper than direct routes.
🔹 Flight Comparison Tools: Use Google Flights & Skyscanner to track fare drops and set price alerts.
Example Price Comparison (London to Jeddah, Return Flight):
| Airline | Direct Flight Cost | One-Stop Flight Cost | Savings |
| British Airways | £850 | N/A | – |
| Turkish Airlines | £780 | £600 | £180 |
| Qatar Airways | £820 | £650 | £170 |
| Saudia Airlines | £790 | £620 | £170 |
✈️ Pro Tip: Book flights 1-2 months in advance for the best rates, especially for Ramadan or peak seasons.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation Near the Haram
Hotel prices in Makkah and Madinah vary based on location and star rating. You don’t have to stay in a 5-star hotel to enjoy a comfortable Umrah experience.
🔹 Look for 3-star hotels with high guest ratings.
🔹 Stay a few streets away from the Haram, with walking distance locations can be 20-40% cheaper than front-row hotels.
🔹 Consider serviced apartments for longer stays to save on food and laundry costs.
Example Hotel Price Comparison (Per Night, Per Room):
| Hotel Rating | Distance from Haram | Average Price (Off-Peak) | Average Price (Peak Season) |
| 5-Star | 100-300m | £250+ | £400+ |
| 4-Star | 300-600m | £120 – £180 | £200 – £300 |
| 3-Star | 600m – 1km | £60 – £100 | £150 – £200 |
🏨 Check Madinah Tours’ latest deals: Explore Affordable Umrah Packages
3. Opt for a 3-Star Package Instead of Luxury
Luxury Umrah packages aren’t always worth the extra cost, especially for short stays. A well-rated 3-star package can provide:
✔️ Clean and comfortable accommodations
✔️ Shuttle services to the Haram
✔️ Decent meal options at a fraction of the price
Example Price Differences:
| Package Type | Average Cost (Per Person) | Included Features |
| 5-Star Umrah Package | £2,500 – £3,500 | Luxury hotel, private transport, full meals |
| 4-Star Umrah Package | £1,800 – £2,400 | Closer hotel, shared transport, breakfast included |
| 3-Star Umrah Package | £900 – £1,500 | Budget hotel, shared shuttle, no meals |
🛑 Don’t overpay for luxury when a standard package meets your needs!
📌 Explore Madinah Tours’ budget options: Cheapest Umrah Packages UK
4. Travel in a Group to Split Costs
Umrah can be significantly cheaper when traveling with family or friends. Group bookings allow you to:
✔️ Share hotel rooms (quad or triple rooms reduce per-person costs).
✔️ Split transport expenses, including taxis and private car hires.
✔️ Access group discounts on flights, visas, and guided tours.
Example of Cost Savings (Per Person, Based on Group Size):
| Room Type | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People |
| Private Room | £800 | £550 | £400 |
| Shared Transport | £150 | £100 | £80 |
| Meals | £200 | £150 | £120 |
| Total Cost | £1,150 | £800 | £600 |
👨👩👦 Check group-friendly packages: Monthly Umrah Packages
5. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Flight prices fluctuate based on demand. Being flexible with your departure date can save hundreds of pounds.
🔹 Mid-week flights (Tuesday & Wednesday) are cheaper than weekend departures.
🔹 Travel in off-peak months like Shawwal or Muharram instead of Ramadan or December.
🔹 Use Google Flights & Skyscanner to find the lowest fares.
✈️ Tip: Avoid traveling during UK school holidays, as prices surge due to demand.
6. Take Advantage of Promotions & Discount Codes
Many Umrah travel agencies and airlines offer limited-time promotions, but most people don’t know where to find them.
🔹 Sign up for email alerts from airlines & travel agencies.
🔹 Follow Umrah providers on social media for flash sales.
🔹 Negotiate directly with travel agents.
📌 Check Madinah Tours for ongoing promotions: Find Affordable Umrah Packages
7. Minimize Extra Costs on Food, Transport & Ziyarat
Hidden costs can add up quickly, so plan wisely:
🍽️ Food: Instead of hotel dining, eat at local restaurants where meals cost 50% less.
🚌 Transport: Use shuttle services or public buses instead of private taxis.
🕌 Ziyarat Tours: Join group tours instead of hiring private guides.
Example Savings on Daily Expenses (Per Person):
| Expense | Luxury Option | Budget Option | Savings |
| Meals (3x/day) | £30 | £15 | £15 per day |
| Transport (per trip) | £25 (private taxi) | £5 (bus or shuttle) | £20 per trip |
| Ziyarat Tour | £80 (private guide) | £30 (group tour) | £50 per tour |
🎯 Over a 7-day trip, this can save you up to £400!
Glasgow Travelers’ Guide to Affordable Umrah Packages 2025
Finding an affordable Umrah package can be challenging for Muslims in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Scotland. With limited direct flights and fewer local agencies compared to London, Scottish pilgrims often pay higher costs for travel. However, the right strategies are needed to secure a budget-friendly Umrah package without compromising comfort.
Finding the Cheapest Umrah Package from Glasgow
Travelers from Scotland often face higher airfare costs due to limited flights from Glasgow (GLA) and Edinburgh (EDI) airports. However, these strategies can help you save:
1. Choose UK-Based Travel Agencies with Scotland Departures
Many London-based Umrah agencies offer competitive packages, but not all include departures from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Look for agencies that provide:
✔️ Discounted flights from Glasgow Airport
✔️ Scottish departure options in their Umrah packages
✔️ Flexible departure points, including connecting flights from London or Manchester
🔹 Recommended Agency for Glasgow:
Check Affordable Umrah Packages for Glasgow & Edinburgh
2. Save on Flights from Scotland to Saudi Arabia
Booking flights separately is cheaper than buying an all-inclusive package. Compare:
| Route | Direct Flight Cost | 1-Stop Flight Cost | Savings |
| Glasgow ✈ Jeddah (Direct) | £900+ | N/A | – |
| Glasgow ✈ London ✈ Jeddah | £750 | £600 | £150-£300 |
| Edinburgh ✈ Istanbul ✈ Jeddah | £850 | £620 | £230 |
✈️ Pro Tip: Many Umrah travelers from Scotland find it cheaper to fly from Manchester or London and book a separate domestic flight or train.
Avoiding Hidden Fees in Umrah Packages
Many “cheap” Umrah packages have hidden costs that make them more expensive than advertised. Before booking, check for extra charges such as:
| Hidden Fee | What to Watch For | Average Extra Cost |
| Visa Fees | Some packages exclude the Umrah visa fee | £80 – £120 |
| Transport Add-ons | Hotel-to-Haram shuttles may not be included | £30 – £100 |
| Hotel Upgrades | Budget packages may place you far from Haram | £50 – £200 |
| Meal Plans | Some packages exclude food costs | £10 – £30 per day |
| Ziyarat Tour Fees | Guided tours to religious sites may be extra | £50 – £100 |
How to Avoid Extra Charges:
✅ Ask for a full breakdown of package costs before booking
✅ Check if the package includes visa, transport & meals
✅ Read online reviews to ensure transparency
🔹 For transparent pricing with no hidden fees, check:
Cheapest Umrah Packages UK
Trusted Resources for Booking Cheap Umrah Packages 2025
Choosing a trusted travel agency when booking an Umrah package from Glasgow or anywhere in the UK is essential.
1. How to Verify if an Agency is Reliable
✔️ Check for ATOL & IATA Certification
✔️ Read Customer Reviews
✔️ Compare Package Inclusions
2. Recommended Agencies for Budget-Friendly Umrah
For Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester travelers, agencies like Madinah Tours offer tailored packages with:
✔️ Budget-friendly Umrah packages
✔️ Departure options from Scotland
✔️ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
📌 Check verified Umrah deals for Glasgow:
Find Affordable Umrah Packages in the UK
FAQs About Cheap Umrah Packages from Glasgow & Scotland
What is the cheapest month for Umrah from Glasgow to perform?
The cheapest time for Umrah is between mid-January and March and during the post-Hajj season (September to November), when demand is lower. Flights and hotel prices drop by 20-40% during these months.
Are there direct flights from Glasgow to Jeddah for Umrah?
There are no direct flights from Glasgow to Jeddah, but connecting flights via London, Istanbul, or Dubai offer cheaper options. Choosing a layover flight can reduce costs by £150-£300 compared to direct departures from London or Manchester.
How much does a budget Umrah package from Scotland cost?
A budget 14-day Umrah package from Glasgow or Edinburgh typically costs £1,200 – £1,600, including flights, accommodation, and visas. Off-peak packages may go as low as £1,000, while luxury options start at £1,800+.
Is booking Umrah flights separately or as part of a package cheaper?
Booking flights separately can sometimes be cheaper if you find a discounted airline deal. However, all-inclusive packages provide added convenience and may include visa fees, airport transfers, and discounted hotel rates, making them a better value.
Which airlines offer the best deals for Umrah from Glasgow?
Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Emirates often offer affordable one-stop flights to Jeddah or Madinah. Booking flights 3-6 months in advance can help secure the best prices.
Can I book a cheap Umrah package from Edinburgh instead of Glasgow?
Many agencies offer Umrah packages from Edinburgh (EDI) and Glasgow (GLA). Flights from Edinburgh often connect via Istanbul and may offer cheaper layover options than Glasgow departures.
How can I avoid hidden costs in Umrah packages?
Always check if the package includes visa fees, transport, meal plans, and extra hotel charges to avoid hidden fees. Request a full cost breakdown and compare package inclusions before booking.
Is it cheaper for Umrah to travel with a group from Scotland?
Group bookings can reduce costs by £200-£500 per person through shared accommodation and transport. Many agencies offer special discounts for groups of four or more.
Which UK-based agencies offer cheap Umrah packages for Glasgow travelers?
Madinah Tours specializes in affordable Umrah packages for Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester. It offers a range of budget and premium options tailored to Scottish travelers.
What is the best way to book a last-minute Umrah package?
Last-minute Umrah deals can be risky and expensive, but checking ATOL-protected agencies, comparing flights via Google Flights, and booking at least two to four weeks in advance can help secure a reasonable price.
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