Ramadan is the perfect month for the most rewarding and spiritually uplifting Umrah experience. The spiritual benefits of performing Umrah during Ramadan are well known to every Muslim. Every believer seeks to perform Umrah during this blessed month to reap the maximum rewards, as promised in an authentic Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). If you are planning an Umrah in the next Ramadan and want to know how to compare Ramadan Umrah packages from the UK before booking, we are here to tell you all about it.
Choosing the right Umrah package can be overwhelming, especially with endless options in the market. Packages may look similar at first glance, yet differences in flights, hotels, transport, visa arrangements, meals and support can significantly affect your overall experience and cost. You will have to consider numerous factors, such as what is actually included, hotel location, travel dates, airline, service quality, and the total price of the package, before making a decision. So, before you book a Ramadan Umrah package from UK, here are some things that you must know that will enable you to compare the Umrah packages.
Things to Compare in Ramadan Umrah Packages Before Booking
Let’s talk about some of the most important things that you must compare in Ramadan Umrah packages before booking the perfect one for your spiritual retreat.
Compare the Total Package Price
Every pilgrim looks at the price tag of the Umrah package first thing. However, keep in mind that the advertised price may not reflect the final amount you will pay. When comparing Ramadan Umrah packages, make sure the following are included.
- Return flights from the UK.
- Accommodation in Makkah and Madinah
- Umrah visa or visa-related services
- Airport transfers
- Intercity transport
- Meals, if advertised
- Guided Umrah services
- Ziyarat tours
- Travel insurance
- Taxes and other applicable charges
A package that initially appears cheaper may become more expensive if important services are excluded.
Check the Departure Airport
Departure options vary by package. UK pilgrims may find flights from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, or other regional airports. Many people mistakenly believe that the nearest airport is the cheapest and most convenient option. But that is not true. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on a departure airport.
- Distance from your home
- Parking or public transport costs
- Flight timings
- Number of connections
- Baggage allowance
- Airline reputation
- Arrival airport in Saudi Arabia
Compare Direct and Connecting Flights
Also check whether the Umrah package that you want to book offers direct or connecting flights. Direct flights generally reduce travel time and eliminate the stress of changing planes. However, connecting flights can sometimes offer lower fares or more flexible schedules. Compare the flight type, duration, stopovers, baggage, departure, arrival, and other factors when comparing Umrah packages.
Compare Hotel Locations Carefully
Hotel locations play a primary role in ensuring a smooth Umrah experience. A hotel may be described as being “near the Haram”, but the actual walking distance can vary considerably. During Ramadan, when the Haram becomes exceptionally busy, even a seemingly short journey can take longer. Therefore, make sure to compare the exact locations of hotels in both Makkah and Madinah as advertised in the Umrah packages.
Check the Actual Hotel, Not Just the Hotel Category
Most people just choose a hotel by looking at the category advertised in 3-, 4-, and 5-star Umrah packages. But this is not enough. Don’t trust the agencies that just add a 5-star hotel in their Umrah package description without giving you the exact name and location of the hotel. Also, ask about the room type and whether breakfast is included in the package. It will give you a better basis for comparing the Umrah packages.
Compare the Number of Nights
Two packages with similar prices may provide very different lengths of stay. So, even if an Umrah package appears more expensive, you should learn its details before making a decision. This is very crucial if you have a clear understanding of how many days you want to spend in Makkah and Madinah. The second package may initially look more expensive, but the cost per night could actually be more competitive. Calculate the total cost per night and the overall package price.
Consider Your Ramadan Travel Dates
Many Muslims think that the whole month of Ramadan is equally busy at the pilgrimage sites. But this is not true. The last ten days of Ramadan are the busiest because of Laylat-ul-Qadar. This increases demand for accommodation and flights, driving up the overall prices of Umrah packages. Therefore, if your priority is affordability, travelling earlier in Ramadan may provide more options than travelling during the final days.
Compare Other Necessary Services
In addition to the above-mentioned things, there are numerous other services that you will have to compare before booking a Ramadan Umrah package. Make sure to have a clear idea of your requirements and preferences before comparing the following services.
- Visa assistance
- Transport arrangements
- Meals and Iftar arrangements
- Ziyarat and guided services
- Cancellation and refund policy of the travel agency
- Travel agency’s credentials
Final Words
No doubt, choosing the perfect Ramadan Umrah package can be daunting. There are thousands of Umrah packages available in the market that you will have to choose from. You cannot just look at a package and say that it will be the best for you. You will have to consider numerous things and compare varying Umrah packages from different Umrah travel agencies before booking the best one to accompany you on your spiritual retreat.