Introduction to Umrah and Budget Planning
Umrah, a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah, can be performed year-round except during the Hajj season, offering Muslims a chance for spiritual renewal. Due to financial constraints, finding the cheapest Umrah packages is crucial for many in Pakistan, ensuring they can fulfill this sacred duty without overspending. These packages typically include flights, hotel stays, transportation, visa assistance, and sometimes meals or guided tours, with prices varying based on duration and service level.
From personal experience, planning such a trip involves balancing cost, comfort, and spiritual goals. Whether traveling solo, with family, or in a group, understanding what’s included in budget packages is key to a fulfilling pilgrimage. This guide draws on detailed information from travel agencies like Trips.pk, offering insights into costs, inclusions, and additional expenses to ensure a smooth journey.
What’s Included in Cheapest Umrah Packages
Cheapest Umrah packages from Pakistan typically include the essentials: round-trip flights from major Pakistani cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, or Peshawar to Jeddah or Madinah; hotel accommodations in Makkah and Madinah for the duration of your stay; ground transportation between the holy cities; assistance with obtaining an Umrah visa; and sometimes basic travel insurance. However, these packages often come with economy-class options, meaning you might stay in hotels farther from Haram or have fewer amenities than more expensive packages.
For example, based on current research:
- Meezab Air offers a 15-day Umrah package starting from PKR 195,000, which includes flights, hotel stays in 3-star hotels, transportation, and visa assistance.
- Flight Connection has packages starting from PKR 249,999 for a 6-day package with 2/3-star hotels, transportation by bus, and visa processing (non-refundable).
- Trips.pk lists economy packages starting from PKR 248,800 for 15 days, with basic hotels and shuttle services.
These packages may not include meals, so pilgrims should budget extra for food, typically around PKR 20,000–30,000 per person for additional expenses like meals, souvenirs, and tips. Shorter durations or shared rooms can further reduce costs but may mean less convenience, such as staying farther from holy sites or relying on shuttle services.
Price Ranges for Cheapest Umrah Packages
The cost of Umrah packages can vary widely depending on several factors, including the duration of your stay, the quality of hotels, the airline you choose, and the time of year you travel. Generally, research suggests you can expect to pay anywhere from PKR 150,000 to PKR 300,000 for a standard 10-15 day package. However, with careful planning and by opting for economic options, it’s possible to find packages for as low as PKR 195,000.
The following table details some current price ranges based on agency offerings as of April 2025:
Cheapest Umrah Package Price Ranges
| Agency | Duration | Starting Price (PKR) | Hotel Category | Includes |
| Meezab Air | 15 days | 195,000 | 3-star | Flights, hotels, transport, visa |
| Flight Connection | 6 days | 249,999 | 2/3-star | Flights, hotels, bus, visa |
| Trips.pk | 15 days | 248,800 | Economy | Flights, basic hotels, shuttle, visa |
| DTravel | 10 days | ~150,000 (estimated) | Economy | Flights, hotels, transport, visa |
Note: Prices may fluctuate based on demand, exchange rates, and availability, so it’s always a good idea to check with travel agencies for the latest deals.
How to Find the Best Deals on Cheapest Umrah Packages
Finding the cheapest Umrah packages requires some strategy. Here are a few tips to help you secure the best deals:
- Book During Off-Peak Seasons: It seems likely that traveling during less busy times, such as April, May, or December holidays, can often yield lower prices. These months are considered off-peak, meaning fewer crowds and potentially cheaper flights and hotel rates, based on agency insights.
- Compare Multiple Travel Agencies: Different agencies offer varying rates and packages. Comparing their offerings can help you find the best fit for your budget.
- Look for Special Deals and Discounts: Many travel agencies offer promotions or group discounts, especially for larger groups. Some also provide payment plans to make the cost more manageable, which is particularly helpful for families or solo travelers.
- Be Flexible with Your Dates: If your schedule allows, being flexible with your travel dates can help you find cheaper flights and hotel rates. Avoid peak seasons like Ramadan or Hajj for better deals, as prices can surge during these times.
- Consider Shared Rooms: Opting for shared accommodations can significantly reduce the cost per person. This is a great option for solo travelers or small groups looking to save money, though it may mean less privacy.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Cheapest Umrah Package
While price is important, it’s also crucial to ensure that the package meets your needs and expectations. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Hotel Location: Hotels closer to the Haram are more convenient but often more expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, you might need to stay farther away and rely on shuttle services. For example, some economy packages include hotels up to 1500 meters from Haram with free shuttle services.
- Meal Inclusions: Some packages include meals, while others do not. If meals aren’t included, budget extra for food. A good estimate is around PKR 20,000–30,000 per person for additional expenses like meals, souvenirs, and tips, based on pilgrim feedback.
- Transportation: Check if the package includes transportation between Makkah and Madinah, as well as local transport within the cities. Options can range from air-conditioned buses to private taxis, with buses being more budget-friendly.
- Visa Assistance: Ensure that the agency assists with the Umrah copyright process, as this can be complex for first-time pilgrims. Visa fees are typically around SAR 680 (approximately PKR 53,000) for a 30-day visa, with processing time usually 5-10 working days.
- Travel Insurance: It’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Some packages include basic insurance, but you may want to consider additional coverage for peace of mind, especially for longer trips.
How to Apply for an Umrah Visa
Obtaining an Umrah visa is a necessary step for your pilgrimage. While many travel agencies include visa assistance in their packages, it’s good to understand the requirements. Typically, you’ll need:
- A valid copyright with at least six months’ validity.
- A recent copyright-sized photo.
- Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia (usually provided by the travel agency).
- A return flight ticket.
- Vaccination certificates (such as for meningitis and polio).
- For women under 45, a Mahram (male guardian) is required unless they are traveling with a group.
The visa fee is around SAR 680 (approximately PKR 53,000) for a 30-day visa, but this can vary. Processing time is usually 5-10 working days, so plan accordingly. Agencies often handle this process, but pilgrims should prepare documents early to avoid delays.
Flight Options from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia
Flight costs vary by airline, with options from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia including:
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): Prices range from PKR 115,442 to PKR 138,205, depending on the route.
- Flynas: Known for budget-friendly options, with fares starting from PKR 125,841.
- Saudia Airlines: Direct flights but slightly pricier, ranging from PKR 150,000 to PKR 200,000.
Booking early is recommended for better deals, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan or Muharram. Consider total travel time, layovers, and baggage allowances when choosing.
Popular Travel Agencies for Cheapest Umrah Packages
Several travel agencies in Pakistan specialize in offering affordable Umrah packages. Here are some reputable options:
- Meezab Air: Offers one of the cheapest options, with a 15-day package starting from PKR 195,000. They also provide flexible payment plans.
- Flight Connection: Known for economy packages starting from PKR 249,999 for 6 days. They also offer longer durations with higher star ratings.
- Trips.pk: Offers a range of packages, including economy options starting from PKR 248,800 for 15 days. They also provide customized quotes based on your preferences.
- DTravel: Provides packages from various cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, with options for 10, 15, and 21 days. Prices vary based on hotel categories and inclusions.
These agencies are well-established and have served thousands of pilgrims, making them reliable choices for your Umrah journey.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Planning the cheapest Umrah package from Pakistan is a significant step toward spiritual fulfillment. By selecting the right package—whether from Meezab Air, Flight Connection, or other agencies—you can ensure affordability while focusing on your pilgrimage. Understanding visa requirements, choosing appropriate flights and accommodations, and booking during off-peak seasons will help make your journey memorable and rewarding.