Umrah from UK — Complete 2026 Guide for British Pilgrims

Planning your Umrah from the UK in 2026? Whether it is your first pilgrimage or a long-awaited return to the Holy Cities, this guide covers everything a British pilgrim needs — from the Saudi e-visa and Nusuk platform to flights, hotels, costs in GBP, packing tips, and more.

Umrah is a deeply personal journey, but the logistics can feel overwhelming. Rules change. Prices shift. New systems launch. That is why we have put together this comprehensive, up-to-date resource so you can focus on your ibadah rather than worrying about paperwork.

Let us walk you through every step.

What Is Umrah and Why Do British Muslims Perform It?

Umrah is the lesser pilgrimage to Makkah — sometimes called the “minor pilgrimage” — that can be performed at any time of year, unlike Hajj which has fixed dates. It involves Ihram, Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa), and Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming the hair).

While not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah carries immense spiritual reward. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Umrah during Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj” (Bukhari and Muslim). For British Muslims, the journey is a chance to step away from daily life and stand before the Kaba in prayer.

Every year, tens of thousands of UK pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah — and in 2026, the process has become more streamlined than ever.

Umrah Visa for UK Citizens in 2026

Getting your visa is the first and most critical step. Fortunately, Saudi Arabia has significantly simplified the process for British passport holders.

Saudi Tourist e-Visa

UK citizens can apply for the Saudi tourist e-visa online through the official Saudi visa portal. This multiple-entry visa is valid for one year and allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. Crucially, it permits Umrah outside of the Hajj season.

Key details:

• Cost: Approximately SAR 535 (around £110–£120) including medical insurance
• Processing time: Usually within 24–48 hours
• Requirements: Valid British passport (6+ months validity), passport photo, email address, debit/credit card for payment
• Validity: Multiple entry, valid for one year from issue

Nusuk Platform

The Nusuk platform (umrah.nusuk.sa) is the official Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah digital platform. While Hajj must be booked exclusively through Nusuk Hajj (hajj.nusuk.sa), for Umrah the platform provides additional services including guided packages with visa issuance, flights, accommodation, and transport bundled together.

Some pilgrims prefer the Nusuk route for its all-in-one convenience, while others book independently through ATOL-protected travel agents (more on that below).

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

British nationals can also apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver for short visits. However, for Umrah purposes, the tourist e-visa is generally recommended as it offers more flexibility and multiple entries.

Important Visa Notes

• You cannot perform Hajj on a tourist visa — Hajj requires a dedicated Hajj visa through Nusuk
• Women can now travel for Umrah without a male mahram guardian, though this is subject to Saudi entry conditions
• Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and future bans from Saudi Arabia
• Always check the latest requirements on GOV.UK before booking

Need help navigating the visa process? Get in touch with our team and we will guide you through every step.

Flights from the UK to Saudi Arabia

Direct flights to Jeddah (JED) and Madinah (MED) are available from several major UK airports, making the journey convenient no matter where you are based.

Direct Flights from London

London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) offer the widest selection of direct flights. Airlines operating direct routes include:

• Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) — Direct to Jeddah and Madinah from Heathrow
• British Airways — Direct to Jeddah from Heathrow
• Flynas — Budget-friendly direct flights from Gatwick

Flight time: approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours.

Flights from Manchester

Manchester Airport (MAN) is the main hub for Northern England pilgrims:

• Saudia — Direct flights to Jeddah (seasonal and year-round)
• Turkish Airlines — Via Istanbul (competitive pricing)
• EgyptAir — Via Cairo (often budget-friendly)

Flights from Birmingham

Birmingham Airport (BHX) serves the Midlands community:

• Saudia — Direct services to Jeddah
• Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways — Indirect options via their respective hubs

Other UK Airports

Glasgow (GLW), Edinburgh (EDI), and other regional airports offer connecting flights with one or two stops. Indirect flights are often cheaper but add 3–8 hours to your journey.

Flight Tips for UK Pilgrims

• Book early — especially for Ramadan and school holiday periods. Prices can double closer to departure.
• Flexible dates save money — midweek flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) are typically cheaper than weekend departures.
• Direct vs indirect: Direct flights cost more but save time and reduce fatigue. For families with children or elderly pilgrims, direct is strongly recommended.
• Budget around £350–£700 return for economy class, depending on season and airline.

Looking for the best flight and package deals? Contact HP Travel Tours for competitive quotes tailored to your dates.

Hotels in Makkah and Madinah

Your accommodation can make or break the Umrah experience. Proximity to the Haram is the single biggest factor affecting both price and convenience.

Hotels in Makkah

• Budget (3-star): Located 1–2 km from the Haram. Shuttle buses or a 15–20 minute walk. Prices from £30–£60 per night.
• Mid-range (4-star): Within 500m–1km of the Haram. Walking distance for most. Prices from £60–£120 per night.
• Luxury (5-star): Directly overlooking the Haram — Hilton Suites, Fairmont Clock Tower, Swissôtel, Anjum Hotel. Prices from £150–£500+ per night, with Haram-view rooms commanding a premium.

Hotels in Madinah

• Budget: 500m+ from Masjid an-Nabawi. From £25–£50 per night.
• Mid-range: 200–500m from the Prophet’s Mosque. From £50–£100 per night.
• Luxury: Overlooking Masjid an-Nabawi — Oberoi, Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick, Hilton Madinah. From £100–£300+ per night.

Hotel Booking Tips

• Hotels closest to the Haram fill up months in advance during Ramadan and December holidays
• Many Umrah packages include hotel — compare the package price against booking independently
• Check if breakfast is included; food near the Haram can be expensive
• Read recent reviews — hotel standards in Saudi Arabia can change quickly

How Much Does Umrah from the UK Cost in 2026?

This is the question every pilgrim asks. Costs vary enormously depending on your travel dates, hotel star rating, and whether you book a package or go independent. Here is a realistic breakdown in GBP:

Budget Umrah Package (7–10 nights)

• Flights: £350–£500 (economy, indirect or budget airline)
• Visa: £110–£120
• Hotel: £200–£400 (3-star, further from Haram)
• Transport & transfers: £50–£100
• Food & miscellaneous: £100–£200
• Total estimate: £800–£1,300 per person

Standard Umrah Package (7–10 nights)

• Flights: £450–£600 (direct, reputable airline)
• Visa: £110–£120
• Hotel: £400–£700 (4-star, walking distance)
• Transport & transfers: £80–£150
• Food & miscellaneous: £150–£250
• Total estimate: £1,200–£1,800 per person

Luxury Umrah Package (7–10 nights)

• Flights: £550–£800 (direct, business class options available)
• Visa: £110–£120
• Hotel: £800–£2,000+ (5-star, Haram-view)
• Transport & transfers: £150–£300 (private transfers)
• Food & miscellaneous: £200–£400
• Total estimate: £1,800–£3,500+ per person

Factors that affect price most:

• Ramadan: Prices can increase by 50–100% during the holy month
• School holidays: Easter, summer, and Christmas/New Year periods see peak demand from UK families
• Booking lead time: 3–6 months ahead typically offers the best balance of choice and price

Want an exact quote for your dates and budget? Request a free personalised quote from HP Travel Tours.

Best Time to Travel for Umrah from the UK in 2026

Choosing when to go depends on your priorities — price, weather, crowds, or spiritual significance.

By Weather

• Best weather: November to February — Makkah temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C. Comfortable for walking and outdoor worship.
• Hottest months: June to August — temperatures can exceed 45°C. Challenging, especially for elderly pilgrims and children.

By Price

• Cheapest months: January, February, and September — low demand means cheaper flights and hotels.
• Most expensive: Ramadan (approximately mid-February to mid-March in 2026) and the last 10 days of Ramadan.

By Crowd Level

• Quietest: January–February, September–October, and the weeks immediately after Hajj
• Busiest: Ramadan, Hajj season (Umrah visas may be suspended), and UK school holidays

Key Islamic Dates for 2026

• Ramadan 2026: Approximately mid-February to mid-March
• Hajj 2026: Approximately late May to early June (Umrah visas may be restricted during this period)
• Eid al-Fitr: Mid-March 2026
• Eid al-Adha: Late May / early June 2026

Our recommendation for first-time UK pilgrims: November or January–February. The weather is pleasant, crowds are manageable, and prices are reasonable. It is the ideal combination for a peaceful, focused Umrah.

ATOL Protection — Why It Matters for Your Umrah Booking

This is one of the most important things to check before you pay a single pound.

ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) is a UK government-backed financial protection scheme managed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). If your travel company goes bust before or during your trip, ATOL protection ensures you get your money back or can complete your journey.

Why This Matters for Umrah

The UK government’s own advice on GOV.UK explicitly warns pilgrims to make sure your travel agent is ATOL-protected when booking Umrah. Sadly, Hajj and Umrah scams are common — UK-based organised crime groups specifically target pilgrims, and victims lose thousands of pounds every year.

How to Check ATOL Protection

• Ask your travel agent for their ATOL number
• Verify it on the CAA’s ATOL checking tool
• When you pay, you should receive an ATOL certificate — check that all elements of your booking (flights, hotels, transfers) are listed
• If a company cannot provide an ATOL number, walk away

Other Safety Tips

• Pay by credit card where possible — this gives you additional protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act
• Keep a paper trail of all payments and correspondence
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true — they usually are
• Research the company on Companies House even if recommended by family or friends

HP Travel Tours is fully ATOL-protected, giving you complete peace of mind when booking your Umrah from the UK. Speak to us today to book with confidence.

UK to Saudi Arabia — Logistics and Practical Tips

Time Difference

Saudi Arabia is GMT+3, which is 2 hours ahead of the UK during GMT (winter) and 1 hour ahead during BST (British Summer Time, late March to late October).

Currency

The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency. As of 2026, 1 GBP ≈ 4.7–5.0 SAR. ATMs are widely available in Makkah and Madinah, and most hotels and shops accept credit/debit cards. However, carry some cash for smaller shops, taxis, and tips.

SIM Cards and Connectivity

Buy a local Saudi SIM card at Jeddah or Madinah airport on arrival. Providers like STC, Mobily, and Zain offer tourist packages with data from SAR 50–100 (£10–£20). Alternatively, activate an eSIM before you travel if your phone supports it.

Getting Around

• Makkah: The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Jeddah Airport to Makkah in around 30 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) are readily available.
• Makkah to Madinah: The Haramain train takes approximately 2.5 hours. Buses and private transfers are also available (4–5 hours by road).
• Within the cities: Walking is often the fastest option near the Holy Mosques. Hotel shuttle buses operate for properties further out.

Health and Vaccinations

• Mandatory: Meningitis ACWY vaccination — you must have a valid certificate at least 10 days before arrival
• Recommended: Flu, COVID-19, and routine travel vaccinations
• Bring enough medication for your entire trip plus extra in case of delays. Carry a doctor’s letter for prescription medicines
• Saudi Arabia can exceed 50°C in summer — stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure

Prayer Times

Prayer times in Makkah and Madinah differ from the UK. Use apps like Muslim Pro, Athan, or the built-in prayer time features on most Islamic apps. In Makkah, you will hear the Adhan live from the Haram — an experience that never loses its power.

Umrah Packing List for UK Pilgrims

Packing for Umrah is different from a regular holiday. Here is what to bring:

Essential Documents

• Passport (valid for 6+ months) and printed copies
• Umrah visa / e-visa confirmation (printed and on your phone)
• ATOL certificate from your travel agent
• Hotel booking confirmations
• Flight tickets / e-tickets
• Vaccination certificate (meningitis ACWY)
• Travel insurance documents
• Emergency contact details

Religious Essentials

• Ihram garments (men: two white unsewn cloths; women: modest clothing in any colour)
• Prayer mat (lightweight, foldable)
• Tasbih / misbaha (prayer beads)
• Quran (pocket-sized or on your phone)
• Dua book — prepare your personal supplication list before you travel
• Sihal (waist belt for Ihram) for men

Clothing and Personal Items

• Comfortable, breathable clothing (light fabrics for the heat)
• Comfortable walking shoes / sandals (you will walk a lot)
• Hijab and undercaps (women) — pack several, they get warm
• Sunglasses and sunhat (for use outside the Haram)
• Lightweight waterproof jacket (for air-conditioned areas and rare rain)

Toiletries and Health

• Sunscreen (high SPF — the Saudi sun is intense)
• Unscented soap, shampoo, and deodorant (required during Ihram — no perfumes or scented products)
• Prescription medications with doctor’s letter
• Basic first aid: plasters, pain relief, rehydration sachets
• Hand sanitiser and face masks
• Tissues and wet wipes

Tech and Extras

• Phone charger and power bank
• Universal travel adapter (Saudi uses Type A/B plugs, same as US)
• Small backpack or crossbody bag for daily essentials
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)
• Snacks for long waits at the airport or Haram

What NOT to Pack

• Scented products (perfume, aftershave, scented lotions) — forbidden during Ihram
• Excessive luggage — keep it manageable for airport transfers and hotel moves
• Valuables you don’t need — leave expensive jewellery at home

Step-by-Step: Planning Your Umrah from the UK

Here is a simple timeline to help you plan:

1. 6+ months before: Decide your travel dates. Research packages. Start saving.
2. 3–4 months before: Book your Umrah package or flights and hotels. Apply for your e-visa. Get your meningitis vaccination.
3. 1–2 months before: Confirm all bookings. Start packing. Prepare your duas. Inform your employer about leave.
4. 1–2 weeks before: Print all documents. Exchange currency. Charge devices. Download prayer time apps.
5. Day of travel: Arrive at the airport 3 hours early. Wear Ihram or carry it to change at the Miqat point on the plane.

Not sure where to start? Contact HP Travel Tours for a free consultation. We help British pilgrims plan every detail of their Umrah journey.

Why Book Your Umrah from the UK with HP Travel Tours?

Choosing the right travel partner makes all the difference. At HP Travel Tours, we specialise in Umrah packages for UK pilgrims with:

• ATOL-protected bookings — your money is safe
• Tailored packages — budget, standard, and luxury options to suit every family
• UK-based support — speak to a real person who understands your needs
• Hotels near the Haram — handpicked for convenience and comfort
• Competitive prices in GBP — no hidden costs, no surprises
• Visa assistance — we handle the paperwork so you don’t have to

Your spiritual journey deserves a stress-free start. Get in touch today and let us help you plan the Umrah you have been dreaming of.

Return Ticket Prices — UK to Jeddah/Madinah (2026)

Return flight ticket prices from UK airports to Saudi Arabia:

Note:

• At HP Travel & Tours, ticket prices are INCLUDED in our UK Umrah packages
• Prices increase during Ramadan and UK school holidays
• ATOL protection covers your flights if booked as a package

Contact us for latest UK ticket prices!

Frequently Asked Questions — Umrah from the UK

1. Do I need a visa for Umrah from the UK?

Yes. UK citizens need a Saudi tourist e-visa or an Umrah visa. The e-visa can be applied for online at the official Saudi visa portal and costs approximately £110–£120. It is valid for multiple entries over one year and permits Umrah outside the Hajj season.

2. How much does Umrah cost from the UK in 2026?

A budget Umrah package (7–10 nights) costs around £800–£1,300 per person. Standard packages range from £1,200–£1,800, and luxury packages start from £1,800 and can exceed £3,500 depending on hotel choice and travel dates. Ramadan and school holiday periods are significantly more expensive.

3. What is the cheapest time to do Umrah from the UK?

January, February, and September are typically the cheapest months for Umrah from the UK. Demand is lower, flights are cheaper, and hotel rates drop. The weather in Makkah during January and February is also pleasant — around 18°C to 28°C.

4. Can I perform Umrah during Ramadan 2026?

Yes, Umrah during Ramadan is permitted and highly encouraged. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said Umrah in Ramadan equals Hajj in reward. However, expect large crowds, significantly higher prices (50–100% more), and the need to book well in advance — at least 4–6 months ahead.

5. Do I need to be vaccinated to perform Umrah?

Yes. A valid meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate is mandatory — you must have been vaccinated at least 10 days before arriving in Saudi Arabia. Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly recommended but not currently mandatory for Umrah.

6. What is ATOL protection and why does it matter for Umrah?

ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) is a UK financial protection scheme. If your travel company goes bankrupt, ATOL ensures you receive a refund or can continue your trip. The UK government advises all Umrah pilgrims to book with ATOL-protected agents. Always verify your agent’s ATOL number on the CAA website before paying.

7. Can women travel for Umrah without a mahram?

Yes. Saudi Arabia has updated its regulations, and women over a certain age can now travel for Umrah without a male mahram (guardian). However, specific conditions may apply, and it is advisable to check the latest Saudi entry requirements before booking.

8. How long is the flight from the UK to Saudi Arabia?

Direct flights from London to Jeddah take approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours. From Manchester, direct flights are around 6 to 7 hours. Indirect flights via Istanbul, Dubai, or Cairo can take 9–14 hours depending on the layover duration.

9. What should I pack for Umrah?

Essential items include Ihram garments, comfortable walking shoes, unscented toiletries (required during Ihram), prayer mat, Quran, sun protection, prescription medications with a doctor’s letter, and a power bank. Avoid packing scented products. See our full packing list above for a detailed breakdown.

10. Is Umrah open all year round?

Yes, Umrah can be performed at any time of year, except during the Hajj season (approximately the 8th to 12th of Dhul Hijjah) when Umrah visas are typically suspended. In 2026, Hajj falls around late May to early June — plan your Umrah before or after this window.

Ready to begin your Umrah journey? Contact HP Travel Tours today for a free, no-obligation quote. We are here to make your pilgrimage from the UK as smooth and spiritually fulfilling as possible.