Introduction
Planning an Umrah trip involves more than booking a flight and finding a hotel. You need to consider your departure airport, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, transport, visa arrangements and the time you want to spend near the holy mosques. For families and first-time pilgrims, having these details organised before departure can make a real difference.
Insha Travel offers Umrah packages from the UK, helping British Muslims arrange their pilgrimage with flights, hotel accommodation and travel arrangements through one travel provider. Insha Travel is the dedicated Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd. The company is ATOL protected under licence 74904 and IATA accredited. Its packages feature officially rated hotels in Makkah and Madinah, giving travellers useful information when comparing accommodation and planning their stay.
Whether you are travelling alone, with your spouse, with children or as part of a larger family group, choosing the right package starts with understanding what is included and how each option fits your needs.
What Are Insha Travel Umrah Packages?
Insha Travel Umrah packages are travel arrangements designed for Muslims travelling from the United Kingdom to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia. They bring important parts of the trip together, including flights, accommodation in the two holy cities and transport arrangements, depending on the selected package.
The main advantage of booking a package is having a clearer picture of your travel arrangements before departure. Rather than organising every service separately, you can discuss your requirements with one travel provider.
What Can You Expect from an Umrah Package?
An Umrah package can include several important travel services:
- Return flights: Air travel from a selected UK departure airport to Saudi Arabia.
- Makkah accommodation: A hotel for your stay near Masjid al-Haram or within your preferred budget.
- Madinah accommodation: A hotel close to Masjid an-Nabawi or at a suitable distance from the mosque.
- Transport: Airport transfers and travel between Makkah and Madinah, according to the package.
- Visa arrangements: Relevant visa guidance and processing where included in the booking.
- Additional services: Optional meals, guided Ziyarat and other travel arrangements, depending on availability.
Always review the individual package details. Not every service is automatically included in every travel arrangement.
Why Choose Insha Travel for Your Umrah?
Choosing an Umrah travel company requires careful attention to its credentials, booking arrangements and knowledge of pilgrimage travel. Insha Travel operates as the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd, with a focus on serving Muslim travellers planning visits to Makkah and Madinah.
There are several practical details worth considering when looking at the company.
ATOL Protection for Greater Booking Confidence
ATOL stands for Air Travel Organiser's Licence. It is a financial protection scheme operated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Insha Travel operates under ATOL licence number 74904 through Times Travel Ltd. This is an important detail for travellers booking qualifying flight-inclusive packages.
ATOL protection can help protect customers financially if an ATOL-protected travel company stops trading. However, the exact protection depends on the services covered by the booking and the ATOL Certificate issued to the customer.
Before making a payment, check your certificate and confirm that the flights and other relevant travel arrangements are covered.
IATA Accreditation
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a global trade association representing airlines and supporting standards across the air transport industry.
Times Travel Ltd is IATA accredited. This provides another relevant business credential for travellers researching their Umrah booking provider.
IATA accreditation and ATOL protection serve different purposes. IATA accreditation relates to the travel industry's agency standards and arrangements, while ATOL provides specific financial protection for qualifying flight-inclusive bookings.
Understanding the difference helps you make a more informed booking decision.
Officially Rated Hotels in Makkah and Madinah
Accommodation is one of the most important parts of an Umrah trip. Your hotel affects how easily you can reach the mosques, rest between prayers and manage your daily schedule.
Insha Travel features officially rated hotels in Makkah and Madinah. Hotel ratings and location information help travellers compare accommodation based on their requirements.
For example, someone travelling with elderly parents may prefer a hotel closer to Masjid al-Haram or Masjid an-Nabawi. A younger traveller with a tighter budget may be comfortable choosing accommodation a little farther away.
The important point is to compare the actual hotel, its official rating and its distance from the mosque rather than relying on the star category alone.
Experience in Hajj and Umrah Travel
Insha Travel is the dedicated pilgrimage brand of Times Travel Ltd, a company that has arranged Umrah travel since 1989.
A business focused on pilgrimage travel understands that customers have different requirements. Some need short itineraries, while others prefer longer stays, family rooms or specific hotel arrangements.
This specialist focus is relevant when discussing travel dates, accommodation preferences and the practical requirements of an Umrah booking.
Understanding Accommodation in Makkah and Madinah
Your choice of hotel can affect the comfort and convenience of your entire trip. Makkah and Madinah have different accommodation options, from budget-friendly properties to internationally recognised luxury hotels.
When comparing Insha Travel Umrah packages, pay particular attention to the hotels listed for both cities.
Hotels in Makkah Near Masjid al-Haram
Makkah is home to Masjid al-Haram, where pilgrims perform Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba.
Many travellers prefer hotels within walking distance of the mosque. This can be particularly useful for people who want to attend several daily prayers without depending on transport.
Some well-known accommodation options in Makkah include:
- Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower: A luxury hotel within the Abraj Al Bait complex.
- Raffles Makkah Palace: A luxury accommodation option close to Masjid al-Haram.
- Swissôtel Al Maqam Makkah: A hotel within the Abraj Al Bait development.
- Pullman ZamZam Makkah: An accommodation option close to the Grand Mosque.
- Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah: A hotel in the Jabal Omar development.
These examples help illustrate the range of accommodation available in Makkah. Specific hotel availability should always be confirmed against your selected package and travel dates.
Hotels in Madinah Near Masjid an-Nabawi
Madinah is home to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet's Mosque.
For many pilgrims, visiting Madinah is an important part of their Umrah trip. Staying close to the mosque can make it easier to attend prayers and visit the surrounding religious sites.
Some recognised hotel options in Madinah include:
- Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah: An upscale hotel near the Prophet's Mosque.
- Dallah Taibah Hotel: A hotel located close to Masjid an-Nabawi.
- Elaf Taiba Hotel: An accommodation option near the mosque.
- Crowne Plaza Madinah: An internationally recognised hotel brand in the city.
- InterContinental Dar Al Hijra Madinah: A hotel offering another accommodation choice for visitors.
When reviewing your booking, check the exact hotel name and its walking distance from the mosque. Also consider accessibility, room occupancy and available meal arrangements.
How to Choose the Right Umrah Package
The right Umrah package depends on your budget, travel dates, accommodation preferences and the people travelling with you.
A lower-priced package may suit someone who prioritises affordability, while another traveller may prefer a hotel with more facilities and a shorter walk to the Haram.
Here are the main factors to consider.
1. Decide Your Travel Budget
Start by deciding how much you can comfortably spend on the pilgrimage.
Remember to account for more than the package price. Personal spending, meals not included in your booking, shopping and other expenses may increase the overall cost.
Ask for a clear breakdown of the services included in the quoted price.
2. Select Your Hotel Category
Hotel ratings provide a useful starting point when comparing accommodation.
- Economy accommodation: Suitable for travellers who want to control costs and are comfortable with simpler facilities or a longer journey to the mosque.
- Three-star accommodation: Can provide a balance between affordability and basic hotel facilities.
- Four-star accommodation: Often offers additional comfort, facilities and convenient locations.
- Five-star accommodation: Generally suits travellers who prefer premium facilities, higher service levels and, in some cases, accommodation very close to the Haram.
The star rating is only one part of the decision. Check the hotel's location, room type and facilities before confirming.
3. Choose the Number of Nights
Umrah trips are available in different durations. Common options include 7-night, 10-night and 14-night arrangements.
A shorter trip may work for someone with limited annual leave. A longer stay gives you more time to rest, pray and visit both holy cities without rushing.
Also check how the nights are divided between Makkah and Madinah. A package with more nights in Makkah may suit one traveller, while another may prefer a more balanced split.
4. Compare UK Departure Airports
Your departure airport can affect the overall travel cost and convenience.
British pilgrims may look at flights from airports such as:
- London Heathrow
- London Gatwick
- Manchester Airport
- Birmingham Airport
- Glasgow Airport
- Leeds Bradford Airport
Choose an airport that is practical to reach from your home. Also compare flight times, baggage allowances, connections and arrival arrangements in Saudi Arabia.
5. Check Room Occupancy
Room arrangements can have a noticeable effect on the price per person.
Common options include:
- Single occupancy: One person in a room.
- Double occupancy: Two people sharing.
- Triple occupancy: Three people sharing.
- Quad occupancy: Four people sharing.
Families should confirm whether suitable family rooms or connecting rooms are available. Do not assume that every hotel offers the same room configurations.
What Is the Difference Between a 7, 10 and 14-Night Umrah Package?
The main difference is the amount of time available in Makkah and Madinah. A 7-night package is suitable for a shorter visit, while 10 and 14-night options allow a longer stay.
| Package duration | Suitable for | Main consideration |
|---|
| 7 nights | Short visits | Limited time in both cities |
| 10 nights | Moderate stays | More flexibility for the itinerary |
| 14 nights | Longer visits | Additional time for worship and rest |
The actual experience depends on how the nights are divided between the two cities.
For example, a 10-night itinerary could include six nights in Makkah and four in Madinah. Another arrangement might divide the stay equally.
Discuss your preferred schedule before booking so that the hotel arrangements match your plans.
When Is the Best Time to Perform Umrah?
Umrah can generally be performed throughout the Islamic year, outside the restricted Hajj period. The best time depends on your personal schedule, budget and preferred travel conditions.
Umrah During Ramadan
Ramadan is an especially important period for Muslims. Many pilgrims wish to perform Umrah during this month because of its religious significance.
However, Ramadan is also a busy travel period. Accommodation and flight demand can be higher, particularly during the final ten nights.
If you are planning Ramadan Umrah, consider booking early and checking the exact travel dates, hotel location and flight arrangements.
Umrah During School Holidays
Families living in the UK may find school holidays convenient for travelling together.
Christmas, Easter and summer breaks are common periods to consider. These dates can also attract higher demand, so it is sensible to compare available packages in advance.
Umrah Outside Peak Travel Periods
Travelling outside major holiday periods may offer more flexibility when choosing dates and accommodation.
If your work or family commitments allow it, compare different months before making a decision. Weather conditions in Saudi Arabia should also be considered, particularly if you are travelling with young children or older family members.
What Should You Know Before Travelling for Umrah?
Preparing your documents and personal belongings before departure can make airport procedures and your stay in Saudi Arabia easier.
A little planning also helps prevent last-minute problems.
Check Your Passport and Visa Requirements
Your passport must meet the current validity requirements for your nationality and travel dates.
Visa rules can change, so check the latest official Saudi requirements before travelling. Ask Insha Travel which visa arrangements apply to your booking and what documents you need to provide.
Visa approval is ultimately decided by the relevant Saudi authorities.
Review Vaccination Requirements
Travellers should check Saudi Arabia's current health and vaccination requirements before departure.
Meningococcal ACWY vaccination requirements may apply to Umrah pilgrims. Other health requirements can depend on nationality, age and current public health rules.
Use official Saudi government guidance and consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have questions about vaccination.
Prepare Your Ihram and Travel Essentials
Ihram is the special state of ritual consecration required for Umrah.
Men generally use two unstitched white cloths, while women follow the applicable rules of Ihram using modest clothing.
Other useful items include:
- Comfortable walking footwear.
- A small bag for personal essentials.
- Unscented toiletries for use during Ihram.
- Necessary prescription medicines.
- A phone charger and travel adapter.
- Copies of important travel documents.
- A small amount of Saudi Riyals for personal expenses.
Pack according to your itinerary and the airline's baggage allowance.
Understanding the Main Umrah Rituals
Umrah consists of four main rituals performed in the prescribed order. Understanding these steps before departure can help first-time pilgrims prepare.
1. Entering Ihram
Ihram is entered before crossing the relevant Miqat boundary. Pilgrims make the intention to perform Umrah and observe the applicable restrictions.
The exact Miqat depends on the route and starting location.
2. Performing Tawaf
Tawaf involves walking around the Holy Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction.
Pilgrims begin and complete their circuits at the designated starting point. Tawaf is one of the central rituals of Umrah.
3. Performing Sa'i
Sa'i involves walking seven circuits between the hills of Safa and Marwah inside Masjid al-Haram.
This ritual commemorates the experience of Hajar (may Allah be pleased with her) as she searched for water for her son, Ismail (peace be upon him).
4. Completing Halq or Taqsir
The final step involves shaving the head (Halq) or trimming the hair (Taqsir), according to the applicable rulings.
Once the required rituals are completed, the pilgrim exits the state of Ihram.
First-time pilgrims may benefit from learning these steps from a knowledgeable religious guide before travelling.
Visiting Important Religious Sites in Makkah and Madinah
Many pilgrims also wish to visit important Islamic sites during their stay. These visits are commonly known as Ziyarat.
Important Places in Makkah
Some notable locations include:
- Jabal al-Nour: The mountain associated with the Cave of Hira.
- Jabal Thawr: The mountain associated with the migration of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- Mina: An important site associated with the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Arafat: The plain where pilgrims gather during Hajj.
Important Places in Madinah
Visitors to Madinah may wish to see:
- Masjid Quba: A mosque with a special place in Islamic history.
- Mount Uhud: The location associated with the Battle of Uhud.
- Jannat al-Baqi: The historic cemetery near the Prophet's Mosque.
- Masjid al-Qiblatayn: A mosque associated with the change of Qibla.
Ziyarat visits are separate from the obligatory rituals of Umrah. Their availability, transport and any associated charges should be confirmed before booking.
How to Book an Umrah Package with Insha Travel
Booking an Umrah package begins with sharing your travel requirements and comparing the available arrangements.
The following steps can help you prepare.
1
Step 1: Visit the official website
Go to Insha Travel's Umrah packages page to review the available travel options.
2
Step 2: Choose your preferred dates
Consider your work commitments, family schedule and preferred month of travel.
3
Step 3: Select your departure airport
Choose a convenient UK airport and ask about the available flight arrangements.
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Step 4: Compare hotels
Review the accommodation in Makkah and Madinah. Pay attention to official hotel ratings, distance from the mosques and room occupancy.
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Step 5: Request a detailed quotation
Ask for a breakdown of flights, hotels, transport, visa arrangements and any additional services.
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Step 6: Review your booking documents
Before paying, read the booking conditions, payment schedule, cancellation policy and applicable financial protection details.
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Step 7: Confirm your reservation
Once you are satisfied with the arrangements, follow the company's booking instructions and retain your confirmation documents.
Important Questions to Ask Before Confirming Your Umrah Booking
A few questions can help you understand exactly what you are paying for.
Before confirming an Umrah package, consider asking:
- Which airline will operate the return flights?
- Are the flights direct or connecting?
- Which hotels are confirmed in Makkah and Madinah?
- What is the official rating of each hotel?
- How far is each hotel from the relevant mosque?
- Are airport and intercity transfers included?
- Is visa processing included in the quoted price?
- What room occupancy does the advertised price cover?
- Are meals included?
- What is the deposit and final payment deadline?
- Will an ATOL Certificate be issued?
- What happens if flight or hotel arrangements change?
Clear answers make it easier to compare different packages and understand the full cost before committing.
Why Official Credentials Matter When Booking Umrah
Pilgrimage travel involves international flights, accommodation, transport and important personal documents. Therefore, checking the travel provider's credentials is a sensible part of the booking process.
Insha Travel's connection with Times Travel Ltd, ATOL licence number 74904 and IATA accreditation provide identifiable business credentials that travellers can check.
The inclusion of officially rated hotels also gives customers a useful starting point when comparing accommodation in the two holy cities.
Remember that each credential has a specific purpose. ATOL applies to qualifying financial protection, IATA accreditation relates to travel agency industry standards, and hotel ratings describe accommodation classification. None of these replaces the need to read your individual booking confirmation and terms.
For a pilgrimage involving several services, understanding these details before departure is a practical step towards better travel preparation.
Plan Your Umrah with Insha Travel
A well-planned Umrah trip starts with choosing arrangements that suit your budget, travel dates and personal requirements. Flights, hotel location, room occupancy and the time spent in each holy city all deserve attention before you make a booking.
Insha Travel, the Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd, provides British Muslims with Umrah travel options backed by ATOL protection under licence 74904 and IATA accreditation. Its use of officially rated hotels in Makkah and Madinah also helps travellers compare accommodation when planning their pilgrimage.
Whether you are arranging your first Umrah or returning with family, take time to review the available options and confirm every important booking detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Insha Travel a registered Umrah travel company in the UK?
Insha Travel is the dedicated Hajj and Umrah brand of Times Travel Ltd, a UK travel company. Times Travel Ltd operates under ATOL licence number 74904 and is IATA accredited. These credentials give prospective pilgrims identifiable details to check before booking. Customers should verify their ATOL protection and request the relevant ATOL Certificate for their flight-inclusive booking. It is also sensible to review the company's booking conditions, payment requirements and travel documentation before confirming a reservation.
2. What is included in Insha Travel Umrah packages?
Insha Travel offers Umrah travel arrangements that can include return flights from the UK, hotel accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, and transport services. Visa arrangements and additional services depend on the selected package. Some options may also offer meal plans or guided Ziyarat tours. Before booking, check the individual package description to understand exactly what is included. You should also confirm hotel names, room occupancy, flight details and any additional charges with the travel company.
3. Does Insha Travel offer 3-star, 4-star and 5-star Umrah packages?
Yes. Insha Travel features different hotel categories to accommodate different budgets and accommodation preferences. Travellers can compare economy, 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotel options, depending on the available packages. The official rating of each hotel and its distance from Masjid al-Haram or Masjid an-Nabawi are useful factors to consider. Availability and prices depend on travel dates, room occupancy and hotel selection, so request an updated quotation before making your decision.
4. Can I book an Umrah package from Manchester or London?
Yes. Insha Travel caters to British pilgrims travelling from different UK departure airports. London and Manchester are among the airports travellers can consider, alongside other available departure locations. The best airport depends on where you live, flight schedules and the package options available for your preferred dates. When requesting a quotation, provide your nearest airport and ask about direct or connecting flights, baggage allowances and arrival arrangements in Saudi Arabia.
5. What documents do I need before travelling for Umrah?
You generally need a valid passport, the appropriate Saudi visa or entry permission, and any health documentation required for your travel dates. Vaccination requirements, including meningococcal ACWY requirements where applicable, should be checked using current official Saudi guidance. Your travel company can explain which documents are needed for the booking, but visa approval remains the responsibility of the Saudi authorities. Check passport validity and document requirements well before departure to allow enough time for preparation.
6. How can I find the right Umrah package for my family?
Start by considering your family size, travel dates, budget and preferred hotel locations. Families with young children or elderly members may benefit from accommodation close to the holy mosques, while larger groups may need triple or quad-sharing rooms. Also compare the number of nights in Makkah and Madinah, available transport and meal arrangements. Contact Insha Travel with your requirements and request a quotation that clearly lists the hotels, flights, room arrangements and included services.