Planning Umrah involves more than booking a flight and choosing a hotel. You also need to consider your travel dates, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, transport between cities, visa requirements, and the arrangements that will help you focus on worship. Choosing the right travel provider can make these decisions much easier.
Insha Travel, the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd, offers a starting point for people researching Umrah packages from the UK. The company states that it is ATOL protected under number 74904 and IATA accredited, with officially rated hotels in Makkah and Madinah. These details can help travellers understand the company's credentials while comparing the arrangements available for their pilgrimage.
Whether you are travelling alone, with your spouse, with children, or as part of a family group, understanding what an Umrah package includes can help you make an informed choice. This guide explains the main package options, accommodation considerations, travel arrangements, and practical steps to take before departure.
What Are Umrah Packages from the UK?
Umrah packages from the UK combine some or all of the main arrangements needed for an Islamic pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Depending on the package, these may include return flights, hotel accommodation, airport transfers, transport between Makkah and Madinah, and assistance with visa arrangements.
A package can be particularly helpful for first-time pilgrims because several travel details can be coordinated through one provider. The exact services vary, so travellers should check the written itinerary before making a booking.
Why choose a package instead of booking everything separately?
A package can simplify planning by bringing key travel services together. Instead of arranging flights, hotels, and transfers independently, you can compare a planned itinerary and review its included services in one place.
Common benefits include:
- Coordinated travel arrangements: Flights, accommodation, and transfers may be organised around the same travel dates.
- Accommodation planning: Hotels can be selected according to location, room type, and budget.
- Clearer budgeting: An itemised package helps you understand which major expenses are included and which remain your responsibility.
- Support with travel preparation: Depending on the service, the provider may assist with documentation and booking questions.
- Options for different travellers: Packages may suit couples, families, individuals, and larger groups.
Which types of Umrah packages can you choose?
Insha Travel lists several accommodation levels and trip durations for pilgrims travelling from the UK. The available choices include economy, three-star, four-star, five-star, and luxury packages, with options that vary by hotel, meal plan, room occupancy, and departure date.
Economy Umrah packages
Economy packages suit travellers who want to manage their spending while keeping the main pilgrimage arrangements organised. They can be a useful choice for individuals, couples, and families who are comfortable with simpler accommodation.
When comparing an economy package, check the distance from the hotel to the Haram, whether a shuttle service operates, and whether meals are included. A lower advertised price may reflect shared rooms or a hotel that is farther from the mosque.
Three-star Umrah packages
Three-star packages offer another option for travellers seeking a balance between cost and accommodation. Insha Travel lists packages at this level with return flights and visa processing among the advertised inclusions.
Review the individual hotel details before booking. The official hotel rating, room occupancy, walking distance, and available facilities will help you understand what the package offers.
Four-star Umrah packages
Four-star Umrah packages may appeal to pilgrims who want additional hotel facilities and a convenient location near the holy mosques. They can also suit families who prefer a more comfortable place to rest between prayers.
Compare the hotels in both cities separately. A four-star hotel in Makkah does not necessarily have the same location or facilities as the hotel included in Madinah.
Five-star and luxury Umrah packages
Five-star and luxury packages focus on higher accommodation standards and additional comfort. Depending on the selected itinerary, options may include hotels close to the Haram, upgraded room categories, private transfers, and more extensive meal plans.
These packages can be worth considering for elderly pilgrims, families with young children, or travellers who prefer shorter walks to prayer. However, the actual hotel, room view, transfer arrangements, and meal plan should be confirmed in writing.
How long should your Umrah trip be?
The right duration depends on your available leave, travel budget, and plans for spending time in both holy cities.
| Trip duration | Who might prefer it? |
|---|---|
| 7 nights | Travellers with limited annual leave who want a shorter stay. |
| 10 nights | Pilgrims looking for additional time in Makkah and Madinah. |
| 14 nights | Families and travellers who prefer a longer stay with a more flexible schedule. |
What is included in an Umrah package?
An Umrah package may include flights, hotel stays, visa assistance, airport transfers, intercity transport, and optional or included Ziyarat tours. The precise combination depends on the booking, so ask for a complete list of services before paying.
Return flights from the UK
Your flight itinerary should state the departure airport, airline, travel dates, arrival airport, and baggage allowance. It should also identify any connections and layovers.
Insha Travel advertises departures from major UK airports, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Travellers should confirm the airport and flight schedule for their chosen dates rather than assuming every route is available for every package.
Hotels in Makkah and Madinah
Accommodation is one of the most important parts of an Umrah booking. Pilgrims often prefer hotels near Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah because location can affect how easily they reach the mosques for prayers.
Check these details before booking:
- The hotel's full name and address.
- The official rating and room category.
- The walking distance to the mosque entrance you expect to use.
- Whether a shuttle is included, where applicable.
- The room occupancy and bed arrangements.
- The meal plan and any additional charges.
Insha Travel states that its packages use officially rated hotels in both cities. Ask for the named properties in your itinerary so that you can review their locations and facilities.
Airport and intercity transfers
Transfers connect your airport with your accommodation and may also cover travel between Makkah and Madinah. These arrangements are particularly useful for travellers carrying luggage or travelling with children and older relatives.
Ask whether transfers are private or shared, whether waiting time is included, and how the provider handles delayed flights. If you plan to use the Haramain High-Speed Railway between the two cities, confirm whether train tickets and station transfers are part of your package or require a separate booking.
Umrah visa assistance
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, passport, travel dates, and the type of visa you are eligible to obtain. An agency may help with the application process, but travellers should confirm the visa conditions that apply to their circumstances.
The UK government's Saudi Arabia travel advice explains the available entry routes for British nationals, including electronic visas and electronic visa waivers for eligible travel outside the Hajj season. Requirements can change, so check the official guidance before departure.
Ziyarat tours
Ziyarat tours allow pilgrims to visit significant Islamic sites around Makkah and Madinah. Depending on the itinerary, these may include locations associated with early Islamic history.
Before booking, confirm which sites are included, how long each tour lasts, and whether a guide or transport is provided. Not every package includes guided Ziyarat, so check the written inclusions instead of assuming it is part of the price.
How much do Umrah packages from the UK cost?
The cost of Umrah packages from the UK depends on your travel dates, hotel category, room occupancy, flight arrangements, and length of stay. Insha Travel advertises several package levels, with prices starting at different amounts according to the itinerary.
What affects the total price?
Several factors can change the cost of an Umrah booking:
- Travel season: Ramadan, school holidays, and popular departure dates can affect flight and hotel rates.
- Hotel location: Accommodation close to the Haram may cost more than a property farther away.
- Room sharing: Sharing a room with other family members or travellers can reduce the cost per person.
- Length of stay: A longer trip usually involves more nights of accommodation and additional travel expenses.
- Meal arrangements: Room-only, breakfast, half-board, and full-board options have different costs.
- Transport preferences: Private transfers and upgraded transport may increase the total price.
- Flight availability: Airline, route, baggage allowance, and departure date can all affect the fare.
How can you compare package prices fairly?
Compare packages with similar dates, hotel standards, room occupancy, and inclusions. A cheaper option may have a different flight route or a hotel farther from the mosque, so the headline price alone does not tell the full story.
Ask for a written breakdown covering flights, accommodation, visa arrangements, transfers, meals, and any optional services. This makes it easier to understand the full cost before you commit.
When is the best time to book Umrah from the UK?
The best time to book depends on your preferred travel dates, budget, and availability. Booking early gives you more time to compare flights and hotels, particularly if you need to travel during Ramadan or a UK school holiday.
Ramadan Umrah
Ramadan is a popular period for Umrah, and many pilgrims plan their visit around fasting, prayer, and the final ten nights. Demand can be high, particularly for hotels near the Haram and departures that fit school or work schedules.
If Ramadan is your preferred time, begin comparing options well in advance. Confirm the exact dates, accommodation, meal arrangements, and transport, as well as any seasonal restrictions that may affect your trip.
Winter and school-holiday Umrah
Winter departures and school holidays can suit families and people who need to arrange annual leave around fixed dates. Christmas, February half-term, and Easter may offer convenient travel windows, although prices depend on availability.
Families should also consider the length of each flight, hotel room arrangements, and how much walking is involved. These details can make a practical difference when travelling with children or older relatives.
Off-peak travel
Travelling outside the busiest periods may provide more choice in departure dates and accommodation. However, lower prices are not guaranteed, so compare actual quotes for the dates you can travel.
Flexible dates can help you consider different airlines, hotels, and trip durations without changing the main purpose of your pilgrimage.
Is Insha Travel a suitable choice for your Umrah booking?
Insha Travel is the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd. Its website identifies the company as ATOL protected under number 74904 and IATA accredited. The business also states that Times Travel has arranged Umrah travel since 1989.
These details provide useful starting points when assessing a travel provider. You should still review the terms of your particular booking, the named hotels, and the services included in your itinerary.
Understanding ATOL protection
ATOL is a UK financial protection scheme administered by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). It applies to qualifying flight-inclusive bookings and can help protect travellers if an ATOL-protected travel company fails.
Before booking, check the company using the CAA's official ATOL holder search. Ask for the ATOL Certificate for your booking and read it carefully. The certificate identifies the arrangements covered by the protection; not every travel service is automatically protected.
What does IATA accreditation mean?
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) works with airlines and travel agents on industry standards and travel processes. IATA accreditation is a relevant credential to consider when researching a travel agency, but it is different from ATOL protection.
Travellers should understand both credentials and check that the booking documents match the services they intend to purchase.
What should you confirm before paying?
Before making a payment to Insha Travel or any other provider, make sure you have clear answers to these questions:
- Which airline and flight dates are confirmed?
- What are the names and addresses of the hotels in both cities?
- How many nights will you spend in Makkah and Madinah?
- Which transfers, meals, and Ziyarat tours are included?
- What are the payment schedule and cancellation conditions?
- What financial protection applies to the booking?
- When will you receive your ATOL Certificate and travel documents, where applicable?
How to prepare for Umrah from the UK
Good preparation can reduce last-minute problems and leave more time for worship. Start with your travel documents, check the current entry requirements, and make sure the practical arrangements suit your needs.
Check your passport and visa requirements
Check that your passport meets Saudi Arabia's entry requirements and that you have the correct visa or travel authorisation for your circumstances. Requirements can differ by nationality and visa type.
For the latest information, consult the UK government's Saudi Arabia entry requirements and pilgrimage guidance. Do not rely solely on older online articles, as visa rules and pilgrimage arrangements can change.
Review health and vaccination guidance
Check the current Saudi health requirements before travelling. Depending on the season and your circumstances, vaccination certificates or other health documentation may be required.
Speak to a healthcare professional or travel clinic well before departure, particularly if you have a long-term health condition or take regular medication. Carry necessary medicines in their original packaging, along with prescriptions or supporting documents where appropriate.
Pack for the climate and daily activities
Pack comfortable footwear, suitable Ihram clothing where needed, modest clothing, personal toiletries, and a small bag for essentials. A reusable water bottle, phone charger, and copies of your travel documents can also be useful.
Consider the weather forecast for both Makkah and Madinah. Lightweight clothing may be suitable in hot conditions, while cooler evenings in some seasons can call for an additional layer.
Plan for older travellers and children
If you are travelling with older family members or young children, review the walking distance to the hotel, lift access, room arrangements, and availability of suitable transport.
Tell your travel provider about mobility requirements before booking. This gives the company an opportunity to confirm suitable accommodation and transport rather than leaving important arrangements until arrival.
How can you request a suitable Umrah package from Insha Travel?
The easiest way to begin is to identify your preferred dates, departure airport, group size, and accommodation needs. Insha Travel offers a tailor-made Umrah service for travellers who want an itinerary built around their requirements.
When requesting a quote, include:
- Your preferred departure airport, such as London, Manchester, or Birmingham.
- Your travel dates and the number of nights available.
- The number of adults, children, and infants travelling.
- Your preferred hotel standard and room-sharing arrangement.
- How you would like to divide your stay between Makkah and Madinah.
- Any meal preferences, accessibility requirements, or interest in guided Ziyarat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Umrah Packages from the UK
1. How much do Umrah packages from the UK cost?
The cost depends on the travel season, hotel rating, room occupancy, flight availability, and trip duration. Insha Travel advertises economy, three-star, four-star, five-star, and luxury options, so travellers can compare different levels of accommodation. Prices shown online are starting fares and may change with availability. Request a quote for your intended departure dates and ask for a full breakdown of flights, hotels, visa arrangements, transfers, and meals. This helps you compare the total cost rather than choosing a package based on its headline price alone.
2. What is included in an Umrah package from the UK?
An Umrah package may include return flights, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, visa processing, airport transfers, transport between the two cities, and guided Ziyarat. However, inclusions differ between packages. Some offer meals, while others provide room-only accommodation or charge extra for optional services. Before booking with Insha Travel, check the written itinerary for your chosen package. Confirm the airline, hotel names, room type, baggage allowance, transfer arrangements, and any additional costs. A detailed itinerary helps you understand what is covered and what you need to arrange separately.
3. How many days are enough for Umrah?
A seven-night trip may be suitable for pilgrims with limited annual leave, while a ten- or fourteen-night stay provides more time in Makkah and Madinah. The right duration depends on your priorities, travel schedule, and physical needs. Remember to account for flight times, airport transfers, and the journey between the two cities when planning your stay. If you are travelling with children or older relatives, a longer itinerary may provide a more comfortable pace. Check the number of nights allocated to each city before selecting your package.
4. Is Insha Travel ATOL protected?
Insha Travel states that it operates as the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd and holds ATOL protection under number 74904. ATOL protection applies to qualifying flight-inclusive bookings, subject to the scheme's terms and the specific arrangements covered. Travellers can verify the company through the UK Civil Aviation Authority's official ATOL holder search. Before paying, request and read your ATOL Certificate when it is issued. Check that it identifies the correct booking and covered arrangements. ATOL protection is distinct from travel insurance, so consider suitable insurance for other travel risks.
5. When should I book Umrah packages from the UK?
Booking early is sensible if you plan to travel during Ramadan, Christmas, Easter, or school holidays. These periods can attract strong demand for flights and hotels near the Haram. Early planning gives you more time to compare departure airports, accommodation, and room-sharing options. If your dates are flexible, request quotes for different travel periods to see how prices compare. There is no single booking date that guarantees the lowest fare, because prices depend on availability and demand. Always confirm the final price, travel dates, and package inclusions before making a payment.
6. Can I customise my Umrah package with Insha Travel?
Yes. Insha Travel advertises tailor-made Umrah packages that allow travellers to request preferred dates, UK departure airports, hotel choices, meal plans, room arrangements, and the number of nights in each city. You can explain your requirements when requesting a quote and review the proposed itinerary before confirming. Specific hotels, room views, flights, and transfers remain subject to availability and confirmation. If you have accessibility requirements or are travelling with children, mention them at the enquiry stage. This helps the provider prepare an itinerary that better matches your group's needs.
Plan Your Umrah with Insha Travel
Choosing an Umrah package is about finding the right balance between accommodation, travel arrangements, budget, and time for worship. Understanding the inclusions and checking the details in advance can make planning easier for individuals, couples, and families travelling from the UK.
Insha Travel, the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd, offers different accommodation levels and trip durations, alongside its stated ATOL protection under number 74904 and IATA accreditation. Travellers can explore the available options and request a personalised quote based on their preferred dates and requirements.
Visit the official Insha Travel Umrah packages page to review the current options and begin planning your pilgrimage.
Visit Insha Travel