Performing Umrah for the first time is a life-changing experience. But many first-time pilgrims feel confused about what is actually included inside Umrah packages especially food, transport, and Ziyarat.
Most travel websites mention these features, but the details are often unclear. This leads to confusion, hidden costs, and sometimes unexpected surprises after reaching Makkah or Madinah.
This complete guide will help you understand everything clearly so you can choose the right Umrah packages with confidence.
1. What Food Options Are Included in Umrah Packages?
Food is one of the biggest concerns for first-time travelers. Some Umrah packages include meals, while others leave it optional.
✔ Types of Food Arrangements in Umrah Packages
| Meal Arrangement | What It Means | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast Only | You get breakfast at your hotel. | Families, elderly, those who prefer ease. |
| Half Board (Breakfast + Dinner) | Two meals per day included. | Long-duration trips, budget planning. |
| Full Board (3 meals) | 3 meals provided daily. | Elderly, medical needs, stress-free trips. |
| No meals included | You buy your food yourself. | Budget travelers, those who like food variety. |
✔ Food Quality Depends on Hotel Category
5-Star Hotels → large buffets, Arabic + international cuisine
4-Star Hotels → good quality breakfast, standard dinner
3-Star Hotels → simple meals, basic menu
Guest Houses → no guaranteed meals
✔ What to Expect in Hotel Meals (Common Items)
Rice (Kabsa, Bukhari, Mandi)
Chicken & mutton dishes
Bread, eggs, porridge
Fruits & juices
Simple desserts
2. Understanding Transport Included in Umrah Packages
Transport is one of the MOST misunderstood parts of Umrah packages. Many travelers assume shuttle service is 24/7 but that’s not always the case.
Transport depends on:
Package type (economy / standard / premium)
Hotel location
Airline arrival (Jeddah or Madinah)
Group size
Let's break it down.
A. Types of Transport Included
✔ 1. Airport Pickup & Drop-off
Almost all Umrah packages include:
Pickup from Jeddah Airport or Madinah Airport
Transport to your hotel in Makkah / Madinah
Drop-off at airport on your return date
✔ 2. Intercity Transport (Makkah ↔ Madinah)
This depends on package:
Economy → Shared bus
Mid-range → Air-conditioned bus
Premium → Private car or VIP van
✔ 3. Shuttle to Haram
Hotels far from Haram often include:
Scheduled shuttles every 30 minutes
Peak-time service during Salah
Closer hotels (200–500m) may not offer shuttles because the distance is walkable.
✔ 4. Ziyarat Transport
This comes under your Ziyarat tour, explained in Section 3.
B. Transport Comfort Levels by Package Category
| Package Type | Transport Quality | Expected Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Umrah Packages | Shared buses | Basic comfort, large groups |
| Standard Packages | Modern AC buses | Good for families |
| Premium Packages | Private van or luxury bus | Very comfortable & convenient |
| VIP / 5-Star Packages | Private car with driver | Maximum comfort |
✔ Things to Ask Your Operator
“Is transport private or shared?”
“How many people per bus or van?”
“Is shuttle service 24/7 or scheduled?”
“Is Ziyarat included in transport?”
These details make a huge difference.
3. What Ziyarat Tours Are Included in Umrah Packages?
Ziyarat is an important spiritual part of Umrah, especially for first-time pilgrims.
Most Umrah packages include Ziyarat in both Makkah and Madinah — but the locations and duration vary.
A. Ziyarat in Makkah (Usually Included)
Common Makkah Ziyarat Points
Jabal al-Noor (Cave Hira)
Jabal Thawr
Mina
Muzdalifah
Arafat
Jannat al-Mu'alla
Historical Masjids (e.g., Masjid al-Jinn)
Economy packages may cover only main points, while premium packages include more sites with detailed guidance.
B. Ziyarat in Madinah (Almost Always Included)
Typical Madinah Ziyarat Points
Masjid Quba
Masjid Qiblatain
Mount Uhud (Uhud Martyrs)
Salman Farsi Garden
Badr historical locations (sometimes optional)
Guides explain the history, significance, and incidents related to each site.
C. Ziyarat Duration & Transport
| Package Category | Duration | Transport Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | 2–3 hours | Shared bus | Covers only major Ziyarat |
| Mid-Range | 3–4 hours | AC bus | Better coverage |
| Premium | 4–6 hours | Private van / small groups | More comfort & detailed guidance |
4. What First-Timers Must Check Before Choosing an Umrah Package
Choosing the right Umrah packages becomes easy when you know what to verify.
✔ Important Checklist
Hotel location (distance from Haram)
Room sharing (double / triple / quad)
Meal plan included or not
Type of transport provided
Ziyarat schedule
Visa processing clarity
Airline details
Total nights in each city
These factors decide your comfort.
5. Hidden Costs Pilgrims Should Be Aware Of
Many first-timers overlook small expenses that add up.
✔ Possible Hidden Costs
Meals (if not included)
Taxi rides (if hotel is far)
Laundry services
Extra Ziyarat trips
Zamzam restrictions during travel
Being aware helps you manage your budget.
6. A Simple Comparison Table for First-Time Travelers
| Feature | Budget Packages | Standard Packages | Premium Packages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meals | Not included | Breakfast included | Full meals |
| Transport | Shared bus | AC bus | Private van |
| Ziyarat | Basic | Full | Detailed + guide |
| Hotel Distance | 700–1500m | 300–600m | 50–300m |
| Duration | 7–10 days | 10–14 days | 12–21 days |
7. Final Advice for First-Time Umrah Pilgrims
Choose comfort over price if traveling with elderly.
Verify hotel distance — don’t rely on website claims.
Ask for a written Ziyarat schedule.
Make sure transport is clear before paying.
Keep meals simple and easy.
Don’t overload your schedule — focus on worship.
A well-planned Umrah leads to a peaceful, meaningful experience.
Conclusion
Understanding what food, transport, and Ziyarat are included in your Umrah package helps you avoid confusion and ensures a smooth journey.
Whether you choose an economy, standard, or premium package, knowing the details allows you to plan according to your budget, comfort, and spiritual goals.
A good package doesn’t mean luxury — it means clarity, comfort, and convenience so that your entire focus remains on Ibadah.
