Everything British Muslims need to know before embarking on Umrah — from visa requirements and flight options to what to pack and how to prepare spiritually.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj which has specific dates. It is sometimes called the 'lesser pilgrimage' but holds enormous spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
For British Muslims, performing Umrah is increasingly accessible thanks to direct flights from major UK airports and a growing number of specialist travel agencies offering comprehensive packages.
Visa Requirements for UK Passport Holders
British citizens require an Umrah visa to enter Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage purposes. The good news is that the Saudi government has significantly streamlined the visa process in recent years.
Here is what you need:
- A valid UK passport with at least 6 months remaining
- Completed Umrah visa application (usually handled by your travel agent)
- Proof of accommodation booking in Makkah and Madinah
- For women under 45 travelling without a mahram, approval from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj is required
The Best Time to Perform Umrah
Umrah can be performed year-round, but certain periods are more popular and spiritually significant:
Ramadan — The most blessed time to perform Umrah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to performing Hajj with him. Expect higher prices and larger crowds but an unparalleled spiritual atmosphere.
Dhul Hijjah (before Hajj) — Performing Umrah in the days leading up to Hajj is particularly rewarding.
Off-peak months (Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal) — Lower prices, smaller crowds, and cooler weather if travelling in winter months.
What to Pack for Umrah
Packing correctly can make your pilgrimage significantly more comfortable:
Ihram Clothing
- Men: Two pieces of unstitched white cloth
- Women: Loose, modest clothing that covers the entire body (any colour)
- Comfortable sandals that can be easily slipped on and off
Essential Items
- Unscented soap, shampoo, and toiletries (no fragrance permitted in Ihram)
- A small bag or waist pouch for your passport and essentials during Tawaf
- Prayer mat (lightweight travel version)
- Supplication (dua) book or app
- Comfortable walking shoes for Madinah
Health & Medication
- Any prescription medication with a doctor's letter
- Paracetamol and rehydration sachets
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) — the Saudi sun is intense
- Small umbrella or wide-brimmed hat
The Rituals of Umrah
Umrah consists of four main rituals:
1. Ihram — Entering the state of ritual purity and intention at the Miqat (designated boundary). Men don the white ihram garments; women dress in modest, covering clothing.
2. Tawaf — Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. Begin at the Black Stone (Al-Hajar al-Aswad) and recite prayers and supplications throughout.
3. Sa'i — Walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail (AS).
4. Halq or Taqsir — Men shave their heads (halq) or shorten their hair (taqsir); women cut a small portion of their hair. This marks the end of Ihram.
Staying in Makkah
Accommodation options range from budget hotels to five-star properties, many of which are within walking distance of Masjid Al-Haram. The closest hotels offer the convenience of being able to pray in the mosque at any time of day or night.
Insha Travel offers a range of hotels in Makkah from 3-star to 5-star, all carefully selected for their proximity to the Haram and quality of facilities.
Visiting Madinah
Most Umrah packages include a visit to Madinah, the second holiest city in Islam and home to Masjid Al-Nabawi — the Prophet's Mosque. While not a formal part of Umrah, visiting Madinah and offering salutations upon the Prophet (PBUH) is of immense spiritual value.
Key sites to visit in Madinah include:
- Masjid Al-Nabawi and the Rawdah
- Masjid Quba — the first mosque built in Islam
- Masjid Al-Qiblatayn — where the direction of prayer was changed
- Mount Uhud and the martyrs of Uhud
- Jannat al-Baqi cemetery
Book Your Umrah with Insha Travel
Insha Travel has been helping British Muslims perform Umrah for over 35 years. Our packages include everything you need — flights, accommodation, transfers, visa assistance, and 24-hour support throughout your journey.
Browse our Umrah packages or contact our team to discuss your requirements.