Introduction to DIY Umrah

Hi there! Ready to embark on a journey to plan your Umrah like a seasoned pro? You've come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan an Umrah trip yourself, without the need for expensive packages or agencies. Whether you're a frequent traveler or it's your first time, the tips and strategies shared here will help you save money and make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

This guide is based on tried and tested methods to help you make the most of loyalty programs, smart booking tactics, and insider travel tips. It's designed to simplify the process so you can focus on the spiritual journey ahead, while still enjoying some great savings along the way.

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5. Saving Big on Hotels in Makkah & Medinah

When planning your DIY Umrah, hotel accommodations can become one of the most significant expenses. However, with careful planning and the right strategies, you can save substantially on hotels in both Makkah and Medinah. Whether by booking early, utilizing loyalty programs, or finding last-minute deals, there are various ways to reduce your hotel costs without compromising on comfort or proximity to the Haram.

5.1 Tips for Booking Hotels in Makkah

Hotels in Makkah, especially during peak seasons such as Ramadan, tend to be extremely expensive. Here are some practical tips to help you secure the best deals:

• Book Early: The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding lower rates. Hotels tend to raise prices as occupancy increases, especially during high-demand times.
• Use Comparison Sites: Websites like Hotels.com and Booking.com can help you compare prices across different hotels. Hotels.com is particularly useful as it offers a free night for every 10 nights booked.
• Look for Promotions: Many hotels offer promotions during certain times of the year, such as during Ramadan or Hajj. Keep an eye out for these deals to save on your stay.
• Stay Further from Haram: If you are flexible with your location, staying slightly further from the Haram can save you a considerable amount. Many hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the Haram.
• Consider Budget Hotels: Several well-known hotel chains have budget options near Makkah, such as Ibis and Holiday Inn, which provide a more affordable yet comfortable stay.

9. Hotel Loyalty Programs

Hotel loyalty programs reward guests for staying within specific hotel chains. These programs allow travelers to accumulate points or miles that can later be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other perks. For frequent travelers, especially those visiting during Umrah, these programs are incredibly valuable for reducing accommodation costs while providing benefits like free breakfast, late checkouts, and exclusive lounge access.

9.1 Importance of Hotel Loyalty Programs

For both frequent and infrequent travelers, hotel loyalty programs offer a great way to save on accommodations. For Umrah pilgrims, these programs are especially important, as the cost of staying near Haram in Makkah and Madinah can be high during peak seasons. By accumulating points and redeeming them for free stays or upgrades, travelers can significantly reduce costs while enjoying additional perks like better room locations and complimentary services.

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