How to Perform Umrah from the UK — Everything British Muslims Need to Know
Umrah is one of the most spiritually enriching journeys a Muslim can take. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year, which makes it more accessible for Muslims living in the UK. But planning the trip — from choosing the right package to understanding visa requirements — can feel overwhelming if you’re doing it for the first time.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you book, so you can focus on what truly matters: your worship.
What Is Umrah and Why Do UK Muslims Choose It?
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah that involves a set of rituals including Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa), and other acts of worship. While it holds immense spiritual reward, it is not obligatory like Hajj.
For UK Muslims, Umrah has become increasingly popular over the years. The convenience of direct flights from major UK airports, combined with the availability of well-structured Umrah packages, has made the journey far more manageable than it used to be. Whether you live in London, Birmingham, Manchester, or Bradford, Aqdas Travel is one of the trusted names in the UK that caters specifically to the British Muslim community and understands exactly what you need.
Choosing the Right Time to Go
There is no single “best” time to perform Umrah — it depends entirely on your priorities. Ramadan is the most spiritually rewarding time, with scholars noting that Umrah performed during Ramadan carries the reward equivalent to Hajj. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive period.
Outside Ramadan, the quieter months offer a more peaceful experience, especially for elderly pilgrims or families travelling with young children. The crowds are smaller, hotels are more available, and the overall experience tends to be calmer and less physically demanding.
If cost is a concern, travelling outside peak periods is where you will find the most cheap Umrah packages UK travellers tend to look for — without compromising on quality or proximity to the Haram.
What’s Included in a Good Umrah Package?
This is where a lot of people get confused. Not all packages are created equal, and the price difference between providers can be significant. Before you book anything, it is worth understanding what a proper Umrah package should include.
A quality all inclusive Umrah package UK typically covers:
- Return flights from a UK airport
- Visa processing and documentation
- Hotel accommodation in both Makkah and Madinah
- Transport between cities (Makkah to Madinah transfers)
- Ground transfers to and from airports
- Guided support throughout the journey
Some packages also include pre-departure orientation sessions, which are especially helpful for first-time pilgrims. These sessions walk you through the rituals, the correct intentions (niyyah), and practical tips for navigating the Haram safely.
When comparing packages, do not just look at the headline price. Look at what is actually included. A cheaper package that leaves out hotel transfers or charges extra for visa processing can end up costing you more in the long run. To compare what is available, browse through these Umrah packages from the UK and find an option that fits your budget and travel dates.
ATOL Protection — Why It Matters
If you are booking a package that includes flights and accommodation together, make sure the travel agent holds a valid ATOL licence. ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) is issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority and protects you financially if a travel company collapses before or during your trip.
This is not a minor consideration. Each year, some travel companies do cease trading, and pilgrims who booked without ATOL protection have been left stranded or lost their money entirely. Choosing from the best Umrah travel agents UK Muslims trust means choosing agents who are ATOL-certified, transparent about their licensing, and have a verifiable track record.
Always ask for the ATOL certificate before making any payment, and check that the licence number matches the package being sold to you.
Visa Requirements for UK Passport Holders
UK citizens require an Umrah visa to enter Saudi Arabia for the purpose of pilgrimage. The good news is that the process has become considerably smoother in recent years. Most reputable travel agents handle the visa application on your behalf as part of the package.
You will generally need to provide a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity), a recent passport photograph, proof of vaccination (meningitis vaccine is typically required), and for women under 45, proof of travel with a mahram or as part of a group under certain conditions.
Requirements can change, so always confirm the latest rules with your travel agent at the time of booking.
How to Find a Trustworthy Umrah Travel Agent in the UK
The UK has a large number of Umrah travel agents, which is both an advantage and a challenge. More options mean more competition and often better pricing. But it also means more room for dishonest operators.
Here is what to look for when selecting a travel agent:
ATOL licence — non-negotiable, as mentioned above.
Years of experience — an agent who has been sending UK pilgrims for years will have established relationships with hotels in Makkah and Madinah, which translates to better accommodation at better prices.
Transparency — a good agent will show you exactly what is included in the price, with no hidden fees.
Reviews and reputation — look for genuine reviews from previous pilgrims, not just ratings on the agent’s own website. Community forums, mosque recommendations, and independent review platforms are more reliable.
Post-booking support — the journey to Makkah is deeply personal, and things can change. A reliable agent will be reachable before, during, and after your trip.
Preparing for the Journey
Once your package is booked, preparation becomes the priority. Beyond the physical preparations — getting vaccinations, gathering the right clothing, understanding the rituals — the spiritual preparation matters just as much.
Spend time learning the correct way to perform each ritual. Read or listen to scholars who explain Umrah step by step. Make dua (supplication) in the weeks leading up to your departure and enter the journey with the right intention.
Many pilgrims also find it helpful to learn basic Arabic phrases related to the rituals, as it deepens the connection during worship.
Final Thoughts
Performing Umrah from the UK is entirely achievable with the right planning and the right travel partner. The key is to not rush the decision. Take time to compare packages, verify credentials, and choose an agent who has your best interests at heart — not just your booking fee.
Whether you are travelling for the first time or returning for another blessed journey, the experience of standing before the Kaaba is something no amount of preparation can fully describe. May Allah accept the ibadah of every pilgrim who makes the intention.
