DIY Umrah Guide – How To Plan Your Own Umrah Trip – Step By Step Itinerary 2025
Umrah is an incredibly profound and spiritual journey that every Muslim should experience in their lifetime.
Whether travelling from Makkah, Medina, or abroad, performing Umrah independently with your DIY Umrah guide can give you greater control over your itinerary and a more intimate experience with sacred rituals.
This step-by-step guide will help you plan a flawless Umrah journey, offering detailed information and tips to help you make the most of your time in the Holy Cities.
Why Choose DIY?
Opting for a DIY Umrah journey comes with several advantages:
- Complete Flexibility: You are in charge of your schedule by planning independently. You can decide the best flights, the most suitable hotels for your budget, and the duration of your stay in Makkah and Medina. Unlike pre-arranged Umrah packages, where every detail is set, DIY Umrah allows you to move at your own pace and focus on your spiritual goals.
- Deepened Spiritual Experience: The DIY Umrah experience encourages reflection and a personal connection with the journey. The schedules of group tours won’t constrain you, and you can spend your time in the Haram and Masjid reflecting on your connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). This independence creates an opportunity for more profound dua (supplications) and prayers.
- Cost-Effective: Independent planning allows you to avoid the high costs of organised tours. From booking your flights to arranging your hotel accommodation, you have complete control over your budget. You can shop for the most affordable flights and even opt for budget-friendly hotels slightly farther from the Kaaba, saving you money without compromising your experience.
Following this DIY Umrah guide, you’ll learn to plan each step carefully to ensure your journey is spiritually fulfilling and financially manageable.
What is the Cheapest Way to Perform Umrah?
Cost is one of the main concerns for many pilgrims when planning Umrah. A DIY Umrah can be more affordable than booking through organised travel packages.
UK-based travel agencies typically offer comprehensive Umrah packages that include flights, accommodation, and visa processing, with prices ranging from £600 to £2,000+ per person for a 4-5 star package.
In contrast, booking flights and accommodation separately and managing visa arrangements independently could reduce costs by 25% to 50+%, potentially saving you thousands if you go down the route of DIY.
While organising your trip offers substantial savings, it requires more planning and coordination, particularly for visas, flights, and local transportation in Saudi Arabia.
DIY Umrah can greatly minimise costs if you’re comfortable with the extra effort.
- Book Flights Early:
- Flights to Saudi Arabia can be expensive, especially during peak periods such as Ramadan or Hajj season. Booking your flights months in advance is the best way to save money. Often, you’ll find better deals when you book early, and flexible travel dates can also help you lower the cost.
- About 1 hour from Makkah, Jeddah is the most common entry point for pilgrims. Flying into Jeddah might be cheaper than flying directly to Medina or Makkah, and from there, you can travel to your destination by bus or taxi.
- Choose Budget Accommodation:
- While staying in hotels near Haram is tempting, many affordable hotels elsewhere offer comfortable stays at a fraction of the price. Many hotels in Makkah offer affordable rates while still providing good amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
- If you arrive early or travel during off-peak times, consider staying in Jeddah for a few nights. It generally offers cheaper accommodation options.
- Travel During Off-Peak Times:
- Performing Umrah during peak seasons like Ramadan or Hajj can significantly increase hotel and transportation costs. Instead, aim for off-peak months like Shawwal, Dhul-Qi’dah, or the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah. These months have fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and a peaceful experience in Makkah and Medina.
- Public Transportation:
- If you want to save on transportation, Saudi Arabia offers a convenient railway system connecting Makkah, Medina, and Jeddah. The high-speed train between Makkah and Medina is affordable and an excellent way to travel between the two cities, bypassing the need for expensive taxis or buses.
Download DIY Umrah Guide PDF
Our DIY Umrah Guide PDF is an excellent resource for those who prefer a comprehensive, printable guide. This guide includes essential information and tips for every step of your Umrah journey.
Inside the PDF, you’ll find:
- Step-by-step instructions on planning your Umrah trip independently.
- Guidance on booking your flights to Saudi Arabia and choosing the best hotels near the Haram and Masjid.
- Provide details on how to obtain your Umrah visa, along with all the necessary documentation and processes.
- Clear explanations of the Umrah rituals help you understand how to perform each step from Ihram to Tawaf.
This DIY Umrah Guide PDF is a comprehensive reference, offering tips and advice that complement the Umrah planning process. Whether booking flights, deciding on hotels, or familiarising yourself with the Umrah rituals, this guide is designed to make your pilgrimage as smooth and fulfilling as possible.
This digital product can be purchased and downloaded immediately. It’s the perfect companion to ensure your Umrah experience is spiritually enriching and well-planned.
How Do I Prepare Myself for Umrah?
Proper preparation is crucial to ensuring a successful and spiritually enriching Umrah. Below are the essential steps to prepare both physically and mentally for the pilgrimage:
- Spiritual Preparation:
- Begin by purifying your heart and intention. Umrah is an act of worship, and your goal should be to perform it solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). Reflect on your intentions and seek forgiveness before you depart.
- It’s essential to study the rituals of Umrah in advance. Understanding what to expect during the Tawaf, Sa’i, and Ihram will make the experience more meaningful and allow you to focus on your worship.
- Physical Preparation:
- Umrah involves a lot of walking between Makkah, Madinah, and other holy sites like Mount Arafat and the Cave of Hira. Start walking long distances before your trip to build stamina, especially if you’re not used to such physical exertion. This will help you perform the rituals with ease.
- Staying hydrated is essential, especially in Saudi Arabia’s hot climate. Drink plenty of water in the weeks before your trip.
- Financial Preparation:
- As part of your DIY Umrah, set a realistic budget. This budget should include costs for flights, hotels, transportation, Umrah visas, and any miscellaneous expenses such as food, souvenirs, and donations at the Masjid.
- Check the exchange rates for Saudi Riyal (SAR) to ensure you know how much money to bring, or consider using a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.
Steps on How to Plan Your DIY Umrah
Early planning and organisation are key to a successful DIY Umrah.
Follow these detailed steps to ensure you are fully prepared for your journey.
Plan to Save Money
Early planning is crucial for both saving money and securing the best deals. Start planning your Umrah journey as early as possible. This allows you to book affordable flights, hotels, and transportation.
- Flights: Look for deals on flights to Jeddah or Madinah several months in advance. Check multiple booking websites and use flight comparison tools for the best rates.
- Hotels: When booking hotels, consider their proximity to the Kaaba or the Prophet’s Mosque. If you’re looking to save money, book a hotel that’s a bit farther away from the Haram or Masjid but still offers easy access to transportation.
- Visa: Apply for your Umrah visa early, as the processing can take some time. Ensure all your documents are in order, including your passport, flight ticket, and health certifications. Pilgrim now offers Umrah visa services to UK Muslims, making the process easier and more convenient. Contact us to learn how we can assist with your Umrah visa and other travel needs.
Determine the Best Time to Perform Umrah
Choosing the right time to perform Umrah can make a big difference in your experience:
- Peak Times: If you’re travelling during Ramadan or Hajj, be prepared for high hotel prices and crowds in the Haram. While these are spiritually significant times, they can be overwhelming for some pilgrims.
- Off-Peak Times: If you want to avoid the crowds and save money on flights and accommodation, plan your trip during Shawwal, Dhul-Qi’dah, or the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah. This will provide a quieter, more serene experience, with shorter queues for Tawaf and more space for prayer.
Flights
When booking flights for your Umrah trip, look for deals that allow you to fly to Jeddah or Madinah, depending on where your journey begins.
You can use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to compare prices across different airlines. Booking several months in advance can often result in significant savings.
Book the cheapest flights here!
Hotel
When selecting a hotel for your Umrah trip, remember that proximity to the Kaaba in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah will affect the price.
Many pilgrims choose hotels within walking distance of Haram, but if you’re on a budget, other options in Makkah provide shuttle services to and from Haram at a much lower cost.
Book the cheapest Hotels here!
Arrange Your Umrah Visa
The Umrah process can vary depending on your nationality. It’s essential to check the current Saudi Arabian visa requirements and gather all necessary documentation before applying. Some countries may offer eVisas, while others require in-person applications at the Saudi embassy.
Pilgrim now offers Umrah E-visa Waiver services to UK Muslims, helping make the process smoother and more efficient.
Get your Umrah Evisa arranged now! (UK nationals)
Get your Umrah Evisa arranged now! (Non-UK nationals)
Make Sure You Have the Right Vaccinations for 2025
As a health precaution, all Umrahtravellers must meet the required health regulations, including vaccinations. These may include the meningitis vaccine, flu shot, and COVID-19 vaccination. Stay updated on new health requirements, and get your vaccinations in advance.
Apps
To make your Umrah journey smoother, there are several apps you can use:
- Pilgrim App: A comprehensive app that offers all necessary information for pilgrims, including guidance on rituals, prayer times, and more.
- My Dua List: This app helps you keep track of personal supplications (duas) for Umrah and Hajj, ensuring you stay focused on your spiritual journey.
In addition to Pilgrim App and My Dua List, here are other useful apps:
- Nusuk: A key app for pilgrims, guiding and performing the rituals of Umrah and Hajj, as well as prayer timings and other essential information.
- Tawakkalna: An essential app for health and safety, providing COVID-19 updates and travel guidance.
Transportation
Transportation in Saudi Arabia is well-organized, making it easy to travel between Makkah and Madinah or within each city. For a do-it-yourself Umrah, pilgrims can use buses, taxis, or the efficient Saudi railway to travel between the holy cities. As a British pilgrim, ensure your visa is secured early.
Staying near the Haram or Masjid will provide convenience for accessing local transport, a key point in your Umrah planning. Many Umrah guides recommend this for a more effortless experience. Knowing your transport options helps make the journey smoother and more Islamic for people opting for a do-it-yourself Umrah.
Appoint a Mutawif
A Mutawif is a guide who can accompany you during Umrah, offering invaluable assistance in understanding and performing the rituals correctly.
Although not a requirement, many pilgrims, particularly first-timers, find that having a Mutawif enhances their experience.
They guide how to navigate Umrah’s spiritual aspects and ensure the rites are carried out according to tradition. If you want to deepen your connection to the pilgrimage, a Mutawif can be a significant aid in guiding you through the entire journey.
Learn How to Perform Umrah
Knowing the steps to perform Umrah properly is essential to completing the pilgrimage successfully.
Here’s a breakdown of the vital rituals:
- Ihram: Before reaching Makkah, enter the state of Ihram, which symbolises spiritual purity. This crucial step marks the beginning of your sacred journey.
- Tawaf: Once you arrive at the Kaaba, perform Tawaf, walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
- Sa’i: Walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. This act commemorates Hajar’s search for water (may Allah be pleased with her).
- Shaving or Trimming: For men, it’s recommended to shave their heads or trim their hair, while women should cut a small portion of their hair.
By following these steps, you’ll fulfil the requirements of Umrah and engage in an act of devotion that brings you closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
How to Make the Most of Umrah
To maximise the spiritual benefits of Umrah, incorporate the following practices into your journey:
- Pray Voluntarily: Offer additional prayers beyond the obligatory Salah. These voluntary prayers, or Nafl, enhance your spiritual connection with Allah.
- Make Du’a: Throughout your pilgrimage, make sincere Du’a, asking Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) for forgiveness, blessings, and guidance. The best time for Du’a is during the moments of reflection in Makkah and Madinah.
- Reflect: Use the time during Umrah to reflect on your faith, your life, and your relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). This is an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation.
Umrah Itinerary for 5 Days
A 5-day Umrah itinerary allows you to experience the essential aspects of the pilgrimage:
- Day 1: Arrive in Makkah, enter Ihram, and perform Tawaf and Sa’i at the Haram.
- Day 2: Visit significant holy sites in Makkah, such as the Cave of Hira and Mount Arafat.
- Day 3: Travel to Madinah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque and other key locations.
- Day 4: Explore Madinah’s significant sites like Quba Mosque and Uhud Mountain.
- Day 5: Perform a final Umrah in Makkah before departing.
Umrah Itinerary for 10 Days
A longer Umrah itinerary provides more time to reflect and explore:
- Days 1-3: Perform Umrah rituals in Makkah, including Tawaf and Sa’i.
- Days 4-6: Travel to Madinah, visiting important sites such as the Prophet’s Mosque and Quba Mosque.
- Days 7-9: Perform additional rituals and visit more sites in Makkah and Madinah.
- Day 10: Perform final prayers and depart from Makkah.
Umrah Dua Cards PDF
Download the Umrah Dua PDF to help guide your Du’a throughout the pilgrimage. These cards include essential duas from the Qur’an and Hadith, ensuring you don’t miss out on the spiritual benefits of Umrah.
Carry these cards with you, and use them during moments of reflection, in the holy mosques, or while travelling between Makkah and Madinah.
FAQ
- Can You DIY Umrah?
Yes, DIY Umrah is possible with careful planning. You can manage flights, hotels, and rituals independently, tailoring the experience to your preferences. - Does Pilgrim Have a Guide for Women to Perform Umrah?
Yes, there are guides specifically for women that detail how to perform Umrah respectfully, covering rituals and the appropriate dress code. - Can I Perform Umrah by Myself?
Many Muslims perform Umrah alone for personal reflection and a more flexible experience. Planning is key to a smooth journey. - Can a Woman Make Umrah Alone?
Yes, women can perform Umrah alone. Many travel with a companion for added safety, but solo Umrah is permissible. - Can I Hire a Guide for Umrah?
You can hire a Mutawif to guide you through the rituals, offering expertise and insights to enhance your experience.
Summary – DIY Umrah Guide
Embarking on a DIY Umrah offers a personal and spiritually enriching journey to Mecca and Madinah. This guide helps you organise your trip seamlessly, from booking flights and securing your visa to performing essential Umrah rituals.
Whether you’re travelling solo for reflection or with companions for a shared experience, do it yourself. Umrah allows you to tailor your journey while staying true to Islamic practices.
From a business standpoint, choosing a DIY Umrah approach allows you to save costs and have more control over your schedule.
View your pilgrimage from a different perspective, as this guide empowers you to navigate every aspect of your journey, from logistics to understanding sacred practices.
Ready to begin your journey? Purchase the DIY Umrah Guide now and start planning your do-it-yourself Umrah today.
0
0
0% of readers found this article helpful. Did you?
