For many Muslim families, going on Umrah is a dream come true—a chance to strengthen their faith and spend time together in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. However, with travel costs on the rise, it can be tricky to find an affordable Umrah package in 2025. Don’t worry though! With the right approach, you can plan a meaningful and budget-friendly trip. This guide will walk you through simple tips and tricks to help your family get the most out of your journey without breaking the bank.

Why Planning Matters

When it comes to Umrah, the earlier you start planning, the better. Waiting until the last minute can lead to higher prices and fewer options. On the other hand, early planning allows you to make thoughtful choices and lock in discounts before they’re gone.

The Perks of Planning Early

• Save Money: By booking flights and hotels early, you can avoid the price hikes that come closer to the travel date.
• More Choices: Planning ahead gives you more time to explore and compare your options, making it easier to find the best deals.

Things to Think About Before You Book

• How Many People Are Traveling: The more family members, the more important it is to find group discounts or family-friendly packages.
• When You Want to Go: Traveling during quieter times, like after Ramadan or before the Hajj season, will usually be cheaper.
• Budgeting: Set aside a clear budget for flights, hotels, food, and activities, so you don’t spend more than you need to.

Exploring DIY Umrah Options

If you’re comfortable taking charge of your travel plans, a DIY approach can offer more flexibility and help you save money. Instead of booking an all-inclusive package, you can arrange each part of your trip separately.

More Control and Lower Costs

Booking flights, hotels, and transportation individually can give you more control over where your money goes. You can select affordable options that fit your family’s needs.

• Helpful Tools: Websites like Discover Umrah (for flights) and (for accommodations) make it easy to compare prices.

Finding Budget-Friendly Hotels

Hotels near the Haram are often very expensive. But there’s a solution—stay at a hotel with a shuttle service to the Haram. These may be a little further away, but they’re usually cheaper and still offer convenient transportation to the sacred sites.

• Affordable Options: You can find good quality hotels that cost anywhere from €50 to €80 per night, much cheaper than the luxury options close to the Haram.

Getting Around Without the High Costs

Instead of private taxis, use local transportation like buses or the Haramain train between Makkah and Madinah. It’s a great way to save money while still traveling comfortably.

Finding Affordable Flights

Flights are often the most expensive part of the trip, but there are smart ways to book at a good price.

Use Flight Comparison Websites

Sites like Discover Umrah and Kayak help you compare flight prices from different airlines, so you can find the best deal.

• Price Alerts: These websites also let you set up price alerts. That way, you’ll be notified when fares drop, making it easier to grab a good deal.

Book in Advance

The earlier you book, the better the price. Try to avoid peak seasons like school holidays or the Hajj period, as flights tend to be more expensive then.

• Travel During Off-Peak Times: If you can, plan your trip for quieter months—flights during off-peak seasons are often much cheaper.

Evaluating Umrah Package Options

While planning your Umrah on your own offers flexibility, group packages are worth considering, especially for larger families. These packages bundle flights, hotels, and transportation into one package, saving you time and often money.

Group Packages for Families

Group packages are ideal for families because they often come with discounts and simplify the booking process. They also usually include guided tours, which can be helpful if it’s your first time going.

• What’s Included? Many group packages include everything from flights and accommodation to transportation and meals.

Local Travel Agencies

Don’t forget to check with local travel agencies that specialize in Umrah trips. They can offer customized packages, often at lower prices than international ones.

• Tailored Options: Many agencies allow you to adjust your package based on your needs and preferences, making it easier to find one that fits your family and budget.

Budgeting for Accommodation and Food

Accommodation and food can add up quickly, but there are plenty of ways to keep these costs under control.

Accommodation: Budget vs. Luxury

It’s tempting to book a luxury hotel near the Haram, but these can be expensive. Instead, consider budget hotels that are a little farther away but still offer shuttle services to the holy sites.

• Comparing Prices: You can often find clean, comfortable hotels for €50 to €80 a night, compared to €150 or more for luxury options.

Managing Food Costs

Eating out at restaurants in Makkah and Madinah can be pricey, so it’s best to plan your meals carefully.

• Hotel Breakfasts: Look for hotels that offer free breakfast—it’s a great way to start the day and save on food costs.
• Affordable Meals: There are many local eateries around Makkah and Madinah where you can enjoy a good meal without overspending.

Planning Activities Without Overspending

While your main goal is the spiritual journey, there are also many historical sites to visit. But, of course, tours can get expensive, so it’s important to plan wisely.

Ziyarat and Historical Visits

There are many important sites you can visit for free, like the Cave of Hira in Makkah and Masjid Quba in Madinah. These sites hold great historical and spiritual significance, and they don’t cost anything to visit.

• Cheap Transport: Use local buses or shared taxis to save on transport costs when visiting these sites.

Avoiding Overpriced Tours

Before you book any guided tours, think about whether the cost is worth it. Many sites are free to visit, and you can often arrange transport on your own for much less.

• Low-Cost Activities: Exploring local markets or enjoying the courtyards of the holy mosques are free activities that add value to your trip.

Additional Tips for Saving Money

Here are a few extra tips to help you save on your Umrah journey:

• Travel During Off-Peak Times: As mentioned earlier, traveling during quieter months helps reduce costs.
• Pack Smart: Bring everything you need to avoid buying expensive items at the last minute.
• Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to have travel insurance. It may cost a little extra, but it can save you money in case of emergencies or unexpected delays.

Conclusion

Finding affordable Umrah packages for your family in 2025 is completely doable! Whether you’re booking everything separately or opting for a group package, there are plenty of ways to save money while still having an unforgettable spiritual journey.

Recap of Tips:

• Plan early to save money and secure the best deals.
• Consider booking a DIY trip for flexibility or a group package for savings.
• Look for budget accommodation and food options.
• Take advantage of free or low-cost activities.
• Use off-peak travel times to keep costs down.

The earlier you start planning, the better your chances of finding affordable options. Remember, the journey is about your faith and experience, and it’s possible to enjoy both without overspending.

Have you planned your family’s Umrah for 2025 yet? Or maybe you’ve been on a budget-friendly Umrah trip before? We’d love to hear your tips and experiences! Drop a comment below and share your thoughts with others who are also looking to make their Umrah journey affordable. Let’s help each other create lasting memories without the financial stress!