For Muslims, the Umrah is an intensely spiritual pilgrimage that provides an opportunity to affirm their relationship with Allah and ask for forgiveness. It is not as obligatory as the Hajj, but it nevertheless has great spiritual significance. When arranging this holy journey, American Muslims frequently ask themselves, "What are the costs of conducting Umrah?" This article helps you plan stress-free and concentrate on the pilgrimage itself by outlining the costs and aspects to take into account.
How Much Does an Umrah Usually Cost from the United States?
Performing Umrah from the U.S. generally costs around $2000, but this figure can vary based on several factors, such as the time of year, level of service, families, group, and how far in advance you book.
You can estimate the starting cost of 7 nights Economy Umrah Package after considering the following table:
No. |
Expense Category |
Estimated Cost |
1. |
Return Flight |
$950 |
2. |
Umrah Visa |
$190 |
3. |
Accommodation |
$500 |
4. |
Ground Transportation |
$300 |
5. |
Ziarat (Holy Sites Tour) Optional |
: $150 |
Total Estimated Cost |
$ 2090 |
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Travel expenses
Flights from major cities in the United States—whether New York, Los Angeles, or bustling Chicago—often cost between $950 and $1,600. Still mark you well, the fickle hand of fate affects these fares depending on the season and the distance from your booking day. The further you save, the lighter the burden on your wallet. 'It is wiser to land in Jeddah, a city near the holy city of Mecca, as it saves both money and time, rather than going to Riyadh, far from your divine destination.
Advice for cutting costs on flights
Please make your Umrah flight reservation early: It may be better to book your Umrah flight three to four months in advance. Umrah tickets can cost more than $2,000 during Ramadan and Hajj, so it's better to book a flight after these two months.
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Visa for Umrah
An Umrah visa costs around 190 USD. This visa, which is required to enter the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia, allows you to stay for ninety days. Frequently, travel agencies include this visa with Cheap Umrah Packages. So worrying about paying some extra isn't valid at all.
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Hotel Expenses
So, an estimated basic range of Makkah and Madina Hotels per night can be between $68 and $245. All cost of accommodation depends upon how far is your location from Al Haram or Al Nabawi mosques, respectively. However staying close to a mosque for prayer and worship may be more convenient, especially for the elderly or those with physical ailments.
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Ground Transportation
Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you'll need transportation between the airport, your hotel, and the holy sites. According to an estimate cost of ground transportation can be between $300, this is just an estimate, it can be more or less, depending on whether you use shared buses or private taxis.
If you have booked the Umrah package through any travel agency, transport is often included. Otherwise, you'll need to arrange it yourself, but it might take a bit of effort.
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Daily Costs and Meals
After visiting this holy place, one would want to take some gift memorable from this place to give to his loved ones or keep with himself to remind him of this holy place.
There are affordable food options everywhere in Makkah and Madina, from local restaurants to fast-food chains. Some hotels even offer buffet meals as part of their package, which can save you money. This is a plus point of booking the package online.
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Ziarat (Tours to Holy Sites)
After performing Umrah, the second goal of every pilgrim is to visit these sacred sites where deep traces of the history of Islam are hidden. Ziarat, or visiting holy sites, is an optional part of the Umrah experience. If you're up for it, a tour of religious landmarks like Mount Uhud, Masjid Quba, Masjid E Qiblatain, Seven Mosques, and other sacred places in Islamic history. Its costs may be around $150 or more, depending upon picking a type of vehicle. But if you know how to reach all these sacred sites by public transport, the cost limit might be less than $150.
Umrah Packages: Convenient and Affordable
Many Muslims in the US book Umrah packages with Travel Agencies because it frees them from many of the hassles that can face during this journey, especially for first-time. This package makes the flights, accommodation, transportation and visa process easy, allowing pilgrims to focus more on worship. Most packages that make the entire trip hassle-free can range from $2000 to $5,000. This is just an estimate because It may change with time and peak months.
Benefits of an Umrah Package:
Everything is pre-arranged: You don't have to worry about booking flights, hotels, or transport separately.
Guidance and support: Most packages include a guide to help you navigate the pilgrimage.
Group travel: It's comforting to travel with a group, especially if it's your first Umrah experience.
Conclusion
Indeed, going on Umrah from the distant shores of America offers a profound journey, a transformation of the soul that will enrich the soul forever. While the cost can vary between $2,000 to $5,000, don't panic, as there are many ways to adjust your expenses according to your resources and desires.
Whether you are looking for the convenience of a pre-arranged Umrah package, or you prefer to make your own way to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, know that the path is blessed. This is a best opportunity to strengthen your faith, get close to God and receive God's grace at every step.