UK Muslims Have Various Options to Book Their Umrah Packages

by Safeena Rahman Travel Addict

Every year, millions of Muslims from different corners of the globe make their journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from their home countries to perform Umrah. This Islamic pilgrimage is also called the 'lesser pilgrimage' or the 'minor pilgrimage' when compared to Hajj, which is the major pilgrimage for all Muslims. The Hajj is performed in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, while Umrah can be performed at any time during the year. For every financially and physically capable Muslim, the major pilgrimage of Hajj is mandatory. The lesser pilgrimage is not compulsory, but since it is the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), it is held in high regard by the followers of Islam.

Muslims residing in the United Kingdom have to travel a long distance from their place of residence to Makkah, the holy city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to accomplish their minor pilgrimage. This also involves a certain amount of cost, which may not be affordable for some of the Muslims. However, in the past few years, several tour operators or travel companies offering cheap Umrah packages have come up in various parts of the country. They have made it possible for those with limited budgets to fulfil their dream of performing the lesser pilgrimage.

The Muslims living in the UK can save a significant sum by booking any of these Umrah packages several months early. Many of the tour operators providing the religious tours of Hajj and Umrah are often very forthcoming in reducing the cost of their packages if they are booked well in advance. For booking these packages in advance, it is essential that the prospective pilgrims decide on the dates of their departure much earlier. Once they have decided on the dates, they can go ahead and book their desired package.

All those pilgrims wanting to perform their lesser pilgrimage and having no concerns about budgets can book an Umrah package with flights that gives them an accommodation in any of the elegant five-star hotels located close to Masjid al-Haram. Upon booking any of such packages, they would have greater convenience in visiting the holy mosque and can perform all the rituals of Umrah with complete peace of mind. During their stay, they can also visit the important Islamic sites in Makkah and head to the shopping centres to buy some souvenirs.

Many of the tour operators offering the religious tours of Hajj and Umrah have made their presence felt on the internet today in the form of attractive and user-friendly websites. These websites make it easier for Muslims based in the UK to browse through the available packages and choose the one most suitable for their budget. Some of the travel companies also have the packages arranged according to certain holidays of the year, such as Christmas and Easter. As the offices and educational institutions across the UK are closed during these occasions, the prospective pilgrims can book their packages for this time of the year to fulfil their sacred intention of Umrah.

You can read on to get some valuable insights into the benefits of November Umrah packages for Muslims living in the UK.