Frequently asked questions.

Umrah is the lesser pilgrimage to Makkah — performable at any time of year, taking only a few hours of ritual. Hajj is the major pilgrimage performed during a specific window (8–13 Dhul-Hijjah) and is one of the five pillars of Islam. Umrah is highly recommended but not obligatory; Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for those who are able. Lumarah currently arranges Umrah journeys only.

Any time outside of Hajj season. Many pilgrims prefer the cooler months (October to March) for the climate. Ramadan is especially blessed but the most crowded and expensive — book 4–6 months ahead. We can help you choose dates that balance climate, crowds, and price.

Around 3–6 hours when performed at moderate pace, depending on crowds. Your full trip includes time in Madinah, ziyarat (visits to historical sites), rest, and additional ʿibadah — Lumarah journeys are typically 7–14 nights.

Yes. UK citizens use the Saudi e-visa, which is included in every Lumarah package. We handle the application; processing typically takes 3–10 working days. You will need a passport valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.

Yes. Since 2021, Saudi Arabia allows women aged 18+ to perform Umrah without a male guardian. Our concierge team arranges female-friendly accommodation and ziyarat groups. If you are travelling solo, do let us know — we will look after you with extra care.

Saudi Arabia requires the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (typically Menveo or Nimenrix) — your certificate must be issued at least 10 days before, and within 5 years of, travel. We recommend speaking to your GP or a travel clinic 4–6 weeks ahead. Other recommended vaccines include MMR and routine boosters.

Every Lumarah package includes: return flights from your nearest UK airport, Saudi e-visa, 4–5★ hotels within practical walking distance of the Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi, all ground transfers (airport, Makkah↔Madinah, ziyarat), travel insurance, and a dedicated UK concierge from enquiry through to your return.

Every hotel we use is within practical walking distance. Our Cherished and Sublime tiers place you within 200–400m. Essential is 400–700m. Distances are given honestly; if a hotel is 800m from the Haram, we never describe it as "minutes from the Kaaba".

Absolutely — this is one of the things we do best. Wheelchair-accessible rooms, ground-floor preferences, slower-paced ziyarat, and (where needed) wheelchair-friendly transport and tawaf services are all things we arrange. Tell us when you submit your quote so we can plan from day one.

All hotels we use serve halal food by default. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements at hotels and during transfers. Let your concierge know during booking and again 14 days before departure.

Yes. Our ziyarat in Madinah and Makkah are led by qualified scholars who explain the historical and spiritual significance of each site. No script-readers and no Wikipedia summaries.

A deposit secures your booking. The balance is due 8 weeks before departure. For bookings within 8 weeks of departure, full payment is required upfront. We accept all major UK debit and credit cards via Stripe (Apple Pay and Google Pay supported on mobile).

Full refund of all monies paid up to 60 days before departure. Within 60 days, the deposit is non-refundable but the balance is refundable. Within 14 days, package cost is non-refundable but travel insurance may cover qualifying reasons. Full terms are at the bottom of every quote.

Yes — comprehensive cover (medical, baggage, trip cancellation, COVID-related disruption) is included in every package. We will provide your policy number and full document when you receive your itinerary.

Yes. Saudi 4G/5G coverage in Makkah, Madinah, and at the holy sites is excellent. Most UK networks offer affordable add-ons for Saudi Arabia; we provide a guide with your itinerary. Your hotel will also offer Wi-Fi.

We send a personalised packing guide with your itinerary. Essentials: passport, vaccine certificate, ihram (men), modest clothing (women), comfortable walking sandals, prayer mat, water bottle, and a small bag for tawaf. Weather varies hugely by season — we will advise based on your travel dates.

Once your portal opens, you have a named concierge available via in-portal chat and WhatsApp from 9am–9pm, 7 days a week. They handle every question — from "is this passport photo OK?" to "we missed our connection, what now?". You speak to the same person from first quote to return home.