Performing Umrah is a dream for many UK Muslims, but many questions often arise in one's mind regarding the cost of going on this journey. Which package is best to take for this trip that meets all your needs and is also budget-friendly? A 3-star Umrah Package may be a good choice if you need a budget-friendly option but still want comfort. But what exactly do you get in this package? Is this price acceptable for this trip, or is it better to build your budget for a more luxurious experience? Considering these issues, many find themselves caught between affordability and convenience, wondering if a three-star Umrah package will provide the balance.
This article explains everything about the 3-star Umrah package from the UK. What flights do you get? Which hotels? How about transport, food, visa, and total price? Let’s see if this option is good for you!
Why is this package better than others?
The three-star Umrah package, also known as the economy package, is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Because by taking this deal, the Hajj pilgrim will not have to bear the cost of performing Umrah. It provides all the essentials you need without distracting you from the journey so that you can perform your worship better. In this case, you offer accommodation about 1 to 1.5 kilometers from the Prophet's Mosque and the Haram, which can require a little physical exertion. But Umrah is for the soul, not luxury life, so the package makes the trip simple and pure.
1. Flight Details: Economy Class Travel
Most economy packages include a return flight from the UK to a major airport (London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham), but this is not necessary as many travel agencies can arrange a different return ticket for you based on the best deal or your demand. Economy packages often include stopover flights that are offered to their customers. The most popular airlines, like Turkish Airlines, Saudia, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and EgyptAir, are used more.
Fact: Standard Economy class tickets to Jeddah and Medina can usually cost between £550 and £700, but during peak seasons such as Ramadan and the December holidays, this price can rise above £900.
2. Accommodation: Decent yet Basic Hotels
These packages often include three-star hotels that are usually located between one and a half kilometers to one kilometer from the Haram and the Prophet's Mosque. The distance means that it may take you 10 to 15 minutes or even a few extra minutes to walk to the Grand Mosque. But the facilities provided in these hotels are all the basic amenities that a pilgrim needs during his Umrah, such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, housekeeping services, and most importantly, many hotels also provide free shuttle services, which makes your journey even easier.
Tip: It is important to gather good information about the hotels provided in the package and what services they offer. What are the opinions of customers who have used their services about this hotel? How far is this hotel from the Haram, and whether or not they provide a free shuttle service?
3. Transport: Shared Airport Transfers & Local Travel
A major problem for Umrah travelers is getting between airports, hotels and holy sites. 3-star Umrah packages usually provide shared transport, but there are a few things you should know:
Airport transfers - what to expect?
A travel agent or driver may be waiting for you when you land in Jeddah or Medina. You then travel in a shared bus or minibus with other pilgrims. Sometimes, you wait 30 minutes, maybe even 2 hours, as all the passengers have to arrive first.
The distance from Jeddah to Mecca is about 90 kilometers - it takes 1.5 to 2 hours. If from Medina, it's a longer journey - 450 kilometers, about 4.5 to 5 hours.
Before booking any package, it's important to know whether the hotel provides a free shuttle service to the Grand Mosque or if they are limited to specific times.
Interesting Fact: Many pilgrims like to walk to Fajr prayers and listen to the prayers of other travelers. The streets feel alive, full of faith and unity.
4. Meals: Breakfast or No Meals Included
Unlike luxury packages, economy packages do not usually provide meals. Pilgrims must arrange this, but some travel agencies may include this facility in their packages. However, it is important to check before booking whether meals and breakfast are included in the packages or not. You can get a better and cheaper standard breakfast or dinner from a local restaurant or food store. The cost of meals can range from three to five pounds per person, while if you increase it a little, it can go up to eight pounds.
5. Visa Processing: Hassle-Free Service
The biggest advantage of choosing a package is that you don't have to do any work yourself. A trusted Umrah travel agent handles all the work for you, such as the visa process. Usually, it can take three to five days or even a week, but it is worth considering that the agency charges an additional fee for this.
Pro Tip: Before booking, always compare packages from different travel agencies online and read reviews about their services.
Conclusion
A 3-star Umrah package from the UK is a good mix of cheap price and comfort. If you book early, go in less busy time, and check hotel locations well, you can do Umrah without wasting too much money.
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