A Complete Guide to Umrah Packages from the USA

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For millions of Muslims around the world, performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey and a cherished act of worship. While it is not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah holds immense significance in Islam and offers an opportunity to seek closeness to Allah, ask for forgiveness, and renew one’s faith. For Muslims residing in the United States, planning an Umrah trip requires careful preparation, especially when selecting the right travel package that meets individual or family needs. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Umrah packages from the USA, covering types, costs, inclusions, travel tips, and more.

What is Umrah?

Umrah is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah that can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which occurs annually during specific Islamic months. The rituals of Umrah include:

Ihram – Wearing the prescribed attire and making the intention.
Tawaf – Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times.
Sa’i – Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
Halq or Taqsir – Shaving or trimming the hair for men and cutting a small portion for women.

Though shorter and less physically demanding than Hajj, Umrah remains a powerful religious experience that requires spiritual preparation and logistical planning.

Why Choose an Umrah Package from the USA?

Choosing a reliable Umrah package is crucial for ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey. Here’s why travelers from the USA should consider opting for a pre-arranged package:

Visa Processing Assistance
Agencies handle the Umrah copyright process, which can be complex for first-time travelers.
Flight Arrangements
Round-trip airfare from major U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Dallas is included.
Hotel Accommodation
Packages include hotel stays in Makkah and Madinah, often within walking distance of the Haramain.
Local Transportation
Transportation between airports, hotels, and holy sites is arranged, making the trip stress-free.
Group or Private Tours
Pilgrims can choose between joining group tours with religious guides or private/custom packages tailored to their needs.
Added Services
Meals, Ziyarah (visits to historical Islamic sites), and multilingual guides are often included.

Types of Umrah Packages

There are various types of Umrah packages offered by travel agencies in the USA, designed to accommodate different budgets, preferences, and schedules:

1. Economy Umrah Packages

Designed for budget-conscious travelers.
Basic hotels (3-star or equivalent).
Group transportation.
Limited meal options or self-catering.

2. Standard Umrah Packages

Balanced pricing with decent amenities.
4-star hotel accommodations.
Group guidance and transportation.
Some meals included.

3. Luxury Umrah Packages

Premium services for comfort and convenience.
5-star hotel accommodations close to the Haram.
Private transportation (chauffeur-driven or dedicated shuttles).
Full-board meals.
Exclusive Ziyarah tours with Islamic scholars.

4. Custom or Family Packages

Tailored itineraries for families, elderly travelers, or individuals with specific needs.
Flexible departure dates.
Options for longer stays and multi-city tours (e.g., adding trips to Jordan, Turkey, or Egypt).

5. Ramadan Umrah Packages

Special packages for those wishing to perform Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan.
Pricier due to higher demand but spiritually rewarding, especially for those planning to spend Laylat al-Qadr in Makkah.

Estimated Costs of Umrah Packages from the USA

Umrah package prices vary significantly depending on travel season, accommodation type, and package features. As of 2025, approximate prices are:

Economy Package: $2,500 – $3,200 per person
Standard Package: $3,500 – $4,500 per person
Luxury Package: $5,000 – $8,000+ per person
Ramadan Packages: $4,000 – $7,500+ per person

Note: Prices usually include airfare, accommodation, visa processing, and transportation. Meals, guided tours, and travel insurance may be extra or included depending on the package.

Top Departure Cities in the USA for Umrah

Most travel agencies operate out of cities with large Muslim populations and direct or connecting flights to Saudi Arabia:

New York (JFK)
Chicago (ORD)
Houston (IAH)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Dallas (DFW)
Atlanta (ATL)
San Francisco (SFO)

How to Choose the Right Umrah Travel Agency

When selecting an agency, consider the following:

Accreditation: Ensure the agency is licensed and authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Experience: Look for agencies with strong reputations and years of experience in organizing Umrah trips.
Customer Reviews: Read feedback from past pilgrims to assess service quality.
Transparency: Choose an agency that provides a clear itinerary and price breakdown.
Support: Good customer support before, during, and after travel is essential.

Required Documents for Umrah Visa (as of 2025)

Valid U.S. copyright (with at least 6 months validity)
copyright-sized photos
COVID-19 vaccination certificate (may still be required)
Completed copyright form
Proof of relationship for women traveling with a male mahram
For solo women (ages 18+), some agencies can arrange Umrah permits with proper authorization

Note: Saudi Arabia also offers e-Visas and tourist visas that can be used for Umrah under certain conditions. Always confirm with your travel agent.

Important Travel Tips

Health: Get vaccinated as per Saudi health requirements. Carry basic medication and stay hydrated.
Money: Bring a mix of cash and international debit/credit cards. Currency exchange is widely available.
Clothing: Dress modestly and pack appropriately for the weather. Ihram garments can be purchased in the USA or upon arrival.
Spiritual Preparation: Learn about the rites and recommended duas of Umrah. Join pre-departure seminars if offered by your agency.
Language: While Arabic is the main language, English is widely spoken in hotels and among guides.

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A COMPLETE GUIDE TO UMRAH PACKAGES FROM THE USA

A Complete Guide to Umrah Packages from the USA