Planning Umrah in 2026 or 2027? If you are preparing for your first pilgrimage or returning to Makkah after many years, understanding the rituals, visa requirements, travel arrangements and costs can help you prepare with confidence.
This complete Umrah guide explains how to plan your journey, choose suitable accommodation, prepare for Ihram, perform Tawaf and Sa’i, and organise your visit to Madinah. You will also find a practical packing checklist, health guidance, budgeting advice and answers to common questions about Umrah.
At Package Umrah, we understand that every pilgrim has different priorities. Some want an affordable Umrah package, while others prefer a hotel close to Masjid al-Haram, convenient transport or additional time in Madinah. Our aim is to help you understand your options and make informed travel decisions.
How do you perform Umrah? The main rites are entering Ihram and making the intention for Umrah, completing seven circuits of Tawaf around the Kaaba, performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah for seven lengths, and cutting or shaving the hair to complete the pilgrimage. Before travelling, check the applicable Saudi entry, health and permit requirements.
What Is Umrah?
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can generally be performed throughout the year, subject to Saudi Arabia’s seasonal restrictions. It involves specific acts of worship and provides an opportunity for Muslims to renew their devotion to Allah.
The principal rites of Umrah are:
- Entering into a state of Ihram at the designated boundary (Miqat).
- Performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba.
- Praying two rak’ahs after Tawaf when appropriate.
- Performing Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah).
- Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming the hair).
Note on Religious Rulings: Specific rulings for particular circumstances can differ between Islamic schools of thought (Madhabs). If you have questions about an obligation, mistake, or unusual medical situation, seek guidance from a qualified scholar.
Perform Umrah Step by Step
Understanding the sequence of the rituals can help you approach the pilgrimage calmly and avoid unnecessary confusion.
1. Enter Ihram and make your intention
As your flight approaches the air boundary (Miqat, such as Yalamlam if flying into Jeddah, or Dhul Hulayfah if arriving from Madinah), the announcement will be made.
- For Men: Wear the two unstitched white sheets (Izar and Rida), ensuring the right shoulder is covered until starting Tawaf. Regular footwear must leave the ankles and upper bones of the feet exposed.
- For Women: Wear modest, loose-fitting regular clothing that covers the body completely, keeping the face and hands uncovered.
- Intention (Niyyah): Make your intention clear in your heart, uttering: “Labbayka ‘Umratan” (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah). Begin reciting the Talbiyah continuously until you reach the Haram in Makkah.
2. Perform Tawaf around the Kaaba
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram:
- Men uncover their right shoulder (Idtiba).
- Begin at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), pointing towards it and saying “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” if close enough, or simply raising your hand toward it from a distance.
- Complete seven counter-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba, keeping the Kaaba to your left.
- Men should walk briskly (Raml) during the first three circuits and walk normally for the remaining four.
- Conclude each circuit by acknowledging the Black Stone.
- After completing the seven circuits, cover your right shoulder and pray two short rak’ahs behind the Station of Ibrahim (Maqam Ibrahim) if space permits, or anywhere convenient in the Haram. Drink Zamzam water afterward.
3. Pray two rak’ahs after Tawaf
Pray two rak’ahs when possible, preferably near Maqam Ibrahim if doing so does not obstruct other worshippers. If the area is crowded, use an appropriate available space and follow mosque guidance.
4. Complete Sa’i between Safa and Marwah
Proceed to the hill of Safa to begin Sa’i. Recite the verse: “Innas-safa wal-marwata min sha’airillah…”
Walk towards Marwah, this counts as one lap. Return from Marwah to Safa, this counts as the second lap. Continue until you complete seven single trips, ending at Marwah.
Men should jog between the designated green fluorescent light pillars in the corridor, while women maintain a normal, steady pace.
5. Halq (Shaving) or Taqsir (Trimming) your hair
Once Sa’i is complete, men should shave their heads entirely (Halq—preferred and more rewarding) or trim their hair evenly across the head (Taqsir). Women clip approximately an inch or fingertip length from the ends of their hair.
With this final act, you exit the state of Ihram, removing restrictions and returning to normal daily clothing. Your Umrah is now complete.
Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Perform Umrah in 2026/27
Your travel dates can influence accommodation prices, flight availability, crowd levels and the overall experience.
| Best Time to Travel | Weather & Temperature | How Busy Is It? | Price & Booking Tips |
| November 2026 to February 2027(Winter Season) | Cool and Nice: Days are warm (20°C to 28°C / 68°F to 82°F) and nights are cool in Makkah and Madinah. | Medium to Busy: Good time to walk comfortably while doing Tawaf and Sa’i. | Best for: Families and elderly pilgrims. Tip: Hotels near the Haram fill up fast, so book early. |
| Ramadan 2027(Feb 7 to Mar 8, 2027) | Pleasant Spring: Warm daytime temperatures (24°C to 32°C / 75°F to 90°F). | Very Crowded: Millions of pilgrims arrive. The Last 10 Nights are the busiest. | Best for: Pilgrims wanting high spiritual rewards. Tip: Flights and hotels are most expensive. Book months ahead. |
| School Holidays(Winter & Spring Breaks) | Warm and Good: Great weather for sightseeing, visiting holy sites, and walking. | Very Busy: Many families travel with young children during school holidays. | Best for: Families with school children. Tip: Airfares go up during school breaks. Reserve early to save money. |
| Quiet Off-Peak Months(Rabi’ al-Awwal & Post-Ramadan) | Mixed Weather: Pleasant in autumn and spring, warmer in late spring and summer. | Low Crowds: Less crowded and very peaceful. Easy to get Rawdah permits on the Nusuk app. | Best for: Travelers on a budget, solo pilgrims, and couples. Tip: Cheapest flight prices and best hotel deals. |
| Hajj Season(Mid-May 2027) | Hot Weather: Summer heat requires lots of water and sun protection. | Restricted: Only people with official Hajj visas can enter Makkah. | Important: Tourist and Umrah visas stop working during Hajj. Check official Saudi rules before booking. |
Step 2: Check Your Umrah Visa Requirements
Before booking your flights, establish which Saudi entry authorisation applies to your circumstances. Visa eligibility depends on factors such as nationality, passport, residence status, travel purpose and current Saudi regulations. Some travellers may qualify for an electronic tourist visa or another permitted entry route, while others may need a specific Umrah visa or an approved service arrangement.
Before travelling, confirm:
- Your passport meets the applicable validity requirements.
- You have the correct visa or entry authorisation.
- Your intended stay complies with the permitted dates and conditions.
- Any required Umrah permit or booking has been arranged.
- You understand any seasonal restrictions affecting entry or travel to Makkah.
- Your return arrangements comply with your visa conditions.
Step 3: Understand Vaccination and Health Requirements
Health preparation is an essential part of planning Umrah, particularly when large numbers of pilgrims gather in the holy cities.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health publishes specific health requirements for Umrah. The meningococcal ACWY vaccination is a key requirement for pilgrims, and the certificate’s validity depends on the vaccine type and applicable regulations.
Consult these official resources:
Additional requirements may apply depending on your country of departure, recent travel history and health circumstances. Speak to a qualified travel health professional about recommended vaccinations and any medical precautions relevant to you.
If you take prescription medicines, check whether they are permitted in Saudi Arabia and whether supporting documentation is necessary. Keep essential medication in its original packaging and carry it securely.
Step 4: Choose the Right Umrah Package
An Umrah package can combine flights, accommodation, transfers and selected travel services into one itinerary. This can simplify planning, especially if you are travelling for the first time.
The right package depends on your budget, preferred hotel location, length of stay, room requirements and need for additional assistance.
| Package Feature | What to Check Before Booking | Quick Answer / What Is Included |
| Return Flights | • Which airline am I flying with?• Is it a direct flight or a layover?• How much checked and hand luggage is included? | Most packages include direct or 1-stop return economy flights with 23kg to 46kg luggage allowance plus 7kg cabin baggage. |
| Makkah Hotel | • How many meters or minutes walk to Masjid al-Haram?• Is there step-free access or shuttle bus service?• Are elevators and air conditioning reliable? | Hotels range from 50m to 800m from the Haram courtyard. 3-star hotels may offer free shuttle buses. |
| Madinah Hotel | • What is the walking distance to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi?• Is the hotel close to women’s prayer gates?• Are private en-suite bathrooms included? | Standard hotels are in the Central Markaziyah zone, a 2 to 5-minute walk to the Prophet’s Mosque gates. |
| Ground Transfers | • Are airport pickups and drop-offs included?• How do I travel between Makkah and Madinah?• Is transport shared coach or private car? | Packages include full air-conditioned ground transport covering airport pickups, intercity travel, and airport drop-offs. |
| Meals & Dining | • Are meals included or do I buy my own food?• Is breakfast room-only, buffet, half board, or full board? | Most budget/3-star packages are Room Only. 4-star and 5-star packages usually include daily buffet breakfast. |
| Visa Assistance | • Is the official Saudi Umrah e-Visa included?• How many days does visa processing take?• Are there extra hidden processing fees? | Official Saudi e-Visa clearance is processed on your behalf via the Nusuk platform in 4 to 7 working days. |
| Ziyarah Tours | • Which holy sites are visited in Makkah and Madinah?• Are guided tours included or optional extras? | Guided visits to historical sites (like Mount Uhud and Masjid Quba) are included in air-conditioned buses. |
| Financial Protection | • Is my booking protected by ATOL or travel insurance?• What happens if my flight gets canceled? | Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected to keep your money safe if plans change. |
When comparing packages, ask for a written quotation that clearly lists inclusions and exclusions. Check the deposit, payment schedule, cancellation terms and arrangements if a flight or hotel changes.
Step 5: How Much Does Umrah Cost?
There is no single fixed price for Umrah. Your total expenditure depends on your departure location, travel dates, airline, hotel category, room occupancy, length of stay and the services included.
At Package Umrah, we make budget planning effortless with all-inclusive, ATOL-protected Umrah packages starting from just £510 per person. If you have a strict budget, tell us which features matter most to you, such as a shorter hotel walk, fewer connections or a particular number of nights.
Step 6: Decide Where to Stay in Makkah and Madinah
Accommodation location can make a significant difference to your pilgrimage, especially if you plan to attend prayers frequently or are travelling with children or older relatives.
What should you look for in a Makkah hotel?
Consider the actual walking route to Masjid al-Haram, the hotel’s entrance, room facilities and available assistance. A hotel described as being near the Haram may still involve a substantial walk, particularly during crowded periods.
How many nights should you spend in Madinah?
Madinah is not a required part of the Umrah rites, but many pilgrims include it in their itinerary to visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and other historically significant sites.
Step 7: Prepare Your Documents and Packing Checklist
Organise your documents well before departure. Keep digital copies of important paperwork and carry essential documents securely.
Umrah packing checklist
- Passport and relevant visa or entry authorisation.
- Flight tickets, hotel confirmations and itinerary.
- Required vaccination certificate and health documents.
- Travel insurance details and emergency contact information.
- Ihram garments for men and suitable modest clothing for women.
- Comfortable footwear and a small bag for shoes.
- Unscented toiletries for use during Ihram.
- Prescription medication and relevant supporting documents.
- Phone charger, suitable travel adapter and power bank.
- Copies of important documents stored separately from the originals.
For a complete list of essentials, clothing and Ihram items to pack for your pilgrimage, read our detailed guide on Umrah Packing List.
Step 8: Understand Ihram Before Travelling
Ihram is the sacred state entered before performing Umrah. It involves making the intention for the pilgrimage and observing specific restrictions.
Men traditionally wear two unstitched pieces of cloth. Women wear modest clothing that meets Islamic requirements; there is no compulsory colour for women’s Ihram clothing.
Before crossing the applicable Miqat towards Makkah for Umrah, prepare yourself, make the intention and recite the Talbiyah. Travellers arriving by air should plan ahead because an aircraft may cross the Miqat before landing.
While in Ihram, restrictions include using perfume, cutting hair or nails and engaging in marital intimacy. Additional rules concern clothing and conduct, with some differences in religious rulings.
Step 9: Visit Madinah and the Prophet’s Mosque
Many pilgrims visit Madinah before or after their stay in Makkah. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is the main destination for prayer and reflection. You may also wish to visit sites of Islamic historical significance, including Quba Mosque and the area of Uhud. Check current access arrangements before making plans for any special visits.
Allow enough time for worship and rest rather than trying to fit too many activities into one day. When travelling between the two cities, confirm your transport arrangements and hotel check-in times.
Step 10: Use Nusuk and Follow Official Instructions
Nusuk is an official Saudi platform for pilgrimage-related services. Depending on current regulations and your circumstances, it may be relevant for Umrah permits or other services.
Before departure:
- Access the official Nusuk platform or app.
- Check whether your planned visit requires a permit or booking.
- Ensure your registration and travel details are accurate.
Do not assume that requirements from a previous pilgrimage season remain unchanged. Verify current arrangements before travelling.
Step 11: Make Your Umrah Journey Safer and More Comfortable
A few practical habits can help make the journey more manageable.
Pace yourself. Rest after travelling and avoid unnecessary physical exertion.
Stay hydrated. Drink water regularly, especially in hot weather.
Plan mosque visits. Allow extra time during busy prayer periods and Ramadan.
Keep valuables secure. Carry only what you need and protect your documents.
Stay connected. Save your hotel’s address and emergency contact details on your phone.
Respect local regulations. Follow instructions from mosque staff and Saudi authorities.
How to Choose a Reliable Umrah Travel Provider
Choosing a travel provider carefully can help you avoid confusion, unexpected expenses and misleading offers.
Before paying, check:
- Company details: Confirm the business identity and contact information.
- Written quotation: Obtain the itinerary, hotel details, flight arrangements and package inclusions.
- Payment terms: Understand deposits, payment deadlines, cancellations and refunds.
- Financial protection: Verify which protections apply to your particular booking.
- Supporting documents: Request any relevant certificates or evidence of protection.
- Visa arrangements: Clarify who handles applications and what happens if authorisation is not granted.
Plan Your Umrah with Package Umrah
A well-planned pilgrimage begins with reliable information, suitable travel arrangements and an understanding of the rituals. By checking your entry requirements, preparing for Ihram and comparing accommodation carefully, you can make informed decisions before departure.
Ready to plan your pilgrimage? Visit Package Umrah to enquire about available packages. Share your preferred dates, departure location, number of travellers, budget and accommodation requirements so the team can explain the options available to you.
May Allah accept your Umrah, ease your preparations and grant you a safe and blessed journey. Ameen.
Frequently Asked Questions: Umrah Guide 2026/27
1. How do you perform Umrah step by step?
Umrah is performed by entering Ihram with the intention of pilgrimage, completing seven circuits of Tawaf around the Kaaba, performing seven lengths of Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, and shaving or trimming the hair. Pilgrims should prepare for Ihram before crossing their designated Miqat and follow the relevant Islamic rulings for their circumstances.
2. How long does it take to perform Umrah?
The main rituals of Umrah can take several hours, depending on crowd levels, walking pace and individual circumstances. During busy periods such as Ramadan, Tawaf and Sa’i may take longer. Pilgrims should allow extra time for rest, prayers and movement around Masjid al-Haram rather than planning their schedule too tightly.
3. When is the best time to perform Umrah in 2026/27?
The best time to perform Umrah depends on your budget, preferred weather and travel priorities. November 2026 to February 2027 may suit pilgrims who prefer cooler conditions, while Ramadan is popular for its spiritual significance and can be much busier. For potentially lower travel costs, compare off-peak dates and check flight and hotel prices before booking.
4. What are the Umrah visa requirements for UK pilgrims in 2026/27?
Umrah visa requirements depend on your nationality, passport, UK residence status and eligibility under current Saudi regulations. British citizens and UK residents with other nationalities should check which visa or entry authorisation applies to them. Before travelling, verify passport validity, permitted stay, any required permits and seasonal restrictions through official Saudi government channels.
5. Which vaccinations are required for Umrah from the UK?
Pilgrims travelling from the UK should check the latest Saudi Ministry of Health requirements before departure. Meningococcal ACWY vaccination is required for relevant pilgrim categories under applicable Saudi rules, and certificate validity depends on the vaccine and current guidance. Additional requirements may apply according to travel history or health circumstances, so confirm the rules with official health guidance before travelling.
6. How much does an Umrah package from the UK cost?
The price of an Umrah package from the UK depends on the departure airport, travel dates, hotel category, room occupancy, duration and included services. Package Umrah’s guide advertises packages starting from £510 per person, but prices and availability can change. Request a current quotation and check whether flights, hotels, transfers, visa assistance and other charges are included.
7. What should I pack for Umrah from the UK?
Pack your passport, applicable visa or entry authorisation, flight and hotel confirmations, required health documents, travel insurance details, comfortable footwear and suitable clothing. Men should bring Ihram garments, while women should pack modest clothing appropriate for the pilgrimage. Unscented toiletries, prescribed medicines, a phone charger and copies of essential documents are also useful.
8. Do I need the Nusuk app to perform Umrah?
Nusuk is an official Saudi platform that provides pilgrimage-related services. Whether a permit or booking through Nusuk is required depends on the current rules and the service involved. Check the latest official Saudi instructions before travelling, as arrangements can change between pilgrimage seasons.
9. How can I choose a reliable and affordable Umrah package from the UK?
To choose a reliable Umrah package, compare the total price, flight arrangements, hotel distance from Masjid al-Haram, Madinah accommodation, transfers, visa assistance and cancellation terms. Request a written quotation that lists all inclusions and exclusions. Also verify the travel provider’s credentials and any applicable financial protection, including ATOL protection where relevant.
10. Is visiting Madinah compulsory during Umrah?
No, visiting Madinah is not a required part of the Umrah rituals. Many pilgrims from the UK choose to visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah before or after their stay in Makkah. If you want to visit both cities, compare hotel locations, transport arrangements and the number of nights needed to plan a comfortable pilgrimage.
