Why Umrah Packages Offer More Value Than Direct Bookings

There are two pilgrimages in Islam. One is Hajj, which is mandatory for every capable Muslim, both financially and bodily, to perform. However, not everyone has the means or health to perform it. Also, only a limited number of pilgrims are allowed each year by the govt or Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. This is why most Muslims try to perform Umrah, the minor pilgrimage, when it is viable for them. While it is not compulsory, Muslims from all over the world try their best to perform it at least once in their life and see the Kaaba with their own eyes and touch it.

To make it easy for pilgrims to perform the minor pilgrimage, travel agencies in the UK offer special packages. These deals cover everything from flights to hotel stays, and overall offer great value. On the other hand, pilgrims can opt to perform the pilgrimage privately, which is too much hassle as they have to do everything themselves. In short, these bundles are the best way to perform the minor pilgrimage. This article will detail why Umrah packages fromthe UK are better than direct bookings.

Benefits for Umrah Packages from UK

As stated, pilgrimage deals offer great value and convenience over direct bookings. They allow pilgrims to focus on rituals and leave the rest to the travel agency. The packages almost include everything, like flights, hotel rooms, food, transport, and more. On the other hand, when pilgrims choose to do it privately, they have to book and handle all aspects of their travel on their own. The following are the benefits and reasons why choosing a packaging is better than performing Umrah privately:

1-      Tailored Services

The purpose of a travel package is to optimize the services as per the traveler’s needs. Umrah deals are no different in this regard, they are designed specifically for British Muslims and cater to their distinct needs. These services include guides that lead pilgrims through each step of the minor pilgrimage. They offer insights into the importance of religious sites and rituals. The guides can also help liaise with locals. On top of that, the agency ensures that all arrangements adhere to Islamic practices.

The biggest benefit of the Umrah deal is that it can be customized as per pilgrims’ needs and budgets. Want to shorten or extend your stay in Mecca or Medina? Pilgrims can easily do so. Every aspect of the package can be customized.

2-      Affordable

The cost is a major benefit of an Umrah package, as opting to perform the pilgrimage privately is very costly. The reason these deals cost less is that the agencies have contacts with airlines and hotels and can negotiate better deals on the pilgrim’s behalf. On top of that, group packages cost even less, as the expense of the trip is divided among all members of the group, which reduces the amount an individual has to pay. This also allows the agency to negotiate bulk deals, which can further reduce the cost of the group Umrah package.

On the other hand, those who choose to do it privately won’t get as good prices. Also, most of the rooms and suites in hotels close to Haram are already booked by the agency for its clients. This means that there is a possibility that the pilgrims will have to book a hotel that is far away from the Kaaba.

3-      Ease and Comfort

Travel agencies make sure that Muslims perform the Umrah with as much comfort as possible. This is why their packages include direct flights from Heathrow to Jeddah or Medina. This reduces the travel time, and there are no layovers in between.

However, the ease and comfort are not limited to how well the pilgrims can travel. It also extends to where they stay. The hotel is usually within walking distance of Haram and other holy sites, which eliminates the need for long commutes.

On top of that, if your package includes visits to holy sites, the agency will also arrange transport, in the form of buses or private shuttles. Furthermore, meals are also included in the Umrah deal, providing pilgrims lunch, dinner, and breakfast, which is useful for pilgrims who are not familiar with local food options.

4-      Health and Safety

The travel agency also takes pilgrims’ health and security into consideration. Foreign countries have certain health requirements in order to travel there, like vaccinations such as meningitis or COVID-19. The agency offers guidance on which vaccinations are needed and even helps arrange them if needed. Privately, the pilgrim would have to scour the internet and read through long and complex instructions.

Depending on which package you choose, travel health insurance is also included in the Umrah bundle. It covers the medical expenses incurred during the trip. It is crucial for covering unexpected medical needs or emergencies. These packages also ensure the hotel is close to a reputable clinic or hospital, and the agency provides information on nearby medical facilities.
https://www.muslimsholytravel.co.uk/umrah-packages/

Tips to Book the Best Umrah Package

Now that we have discussed why an Umrah deal is better than going private, let’s take a look at some useful tips in order to find the best package. A lot of travel agencies operate in the UK, each offering specialized travel bundles for varying prices. It can be a bit confusing for pilgrims to find the package that best suits their budget and needs. With that in mind, here are some tips that will help you find the best Umrah package:

Compare Packages from Multiple Agencies

Pilgrims don't need to accept the first Umrah deal they come across. It is vital for them to go through multiple packages from various travel agencies. Some offer the same services while charging less, while others charge the same for better services. Comparing them will help you find the ideal bundle that is within your budget and suits your needs.

Do consider that a cheap package is not always the best one; there can be some cutbacks that compromise the pilgrimage. If you can afford it, try to pay a little extra to book with a reputable travel agency that is ATOL and IATA certified, which ensures protection during travel.

Check for Hidden Costs

Price is the main reason pilgrims opt for an Umrah deal, so it is crucial that they ask for a complete breakdown of the cost of the trip. This is to ensure that they only pay the upfront cost and no more. A reputable agency won’t make any excuses and will provide a sheet detailing each expense, justifying their package cost.

Also, travelers must familiarize themselves with the payment and cancellation policies, as they can be useful in case of an emergency.

Make Special Requests in Advance

The purpose of an Umrah deal is to optimize the travel as per the needs and preferences of the pilgrim. Different people have distinct tastes, some like to visit historical sites, while others solely focus on prayer and Umrah rituals. It is vital for pilgrims to communicate their preferences to the travel agent so they can optimize the entire trip as per the client’s wishes.

Also, if the pilgrim has any special needs that pertain to diet or a physical disability, they must communicate it to their agent. The agency will ensure that your request is fulfilled and the pilgrimage is organized to facilitate them, so they can just focus on their prayers and nothing else.

Final Thoughts

Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage that rejuvenates the soul and cleanses the pilgrim of their past sins. Meccan and Medina are filled to the brim throughout the year with pilgrims trying to reconnect with Allah. For those of you who wish to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the minor pilgrimage, an Umrah package is the best deal. It covers everything from flights to local transport. Muslims HolyTravel offers customizable packages at prices that suit your budget and needs. Visit our website today and get a quote for your ideal Umrah deal.