Umrah Package from the USA With Alhamd Travel
The Umrah is the pilgrimage to Makkah, the holy city. Unlike the Hajj, which happens at a specific time, Umrah can be done anytime during the year. It is a way for Muslims to feel closer to Allah, ask for forgiveness, and clean their hearts. This journey brings peace and helps Muslims feel more devoted to their faith. Whether you've traveled previously or this is your first time, Umrah is a life-changing experience.
Planning such a significant experience can feel confusing. However, Alhamd Travel is here to make it easy for you. We offer great Umrah packages from the USA, giving you the best prices and services. No matter which USA city you're leaving from, we offer packages to suit both your needs and price range. With Alhamd Travel, booking your Umrah is simple, so you can concentrate on your spiritual journey.
All You Need to Know about Performing Umrah
Going to Umrah is a very special and important journey for Muslims. To make it easy and meaningful, it's essential to be ready. So, here is a short guide to help you prepare and do everything correctly.
Understanding Ihram
Before entering the holy city of Makkah, you must enter a state called Ihram. This means you have to wear specific clothes and follow some essential rules.
For men, this means wearing two pieces of plain white cloth: one around their waist and the other over their shoulders. Women should wear loose, modest clothing that follows Islamic guidelines, but there's no specific color they must wear.
When you're in this state of Ihram, there are some things you cannot do. You can't cut your hair or nails, use scented products, or have any romantic relationship. Knowing what you can and cannot do while in Ihram is essential to keep it respected.
Key Rituals
When you arrive in Makkah and reach the Haram, your spiritual journey truly starts. So, here's a simple list of the main rituals of Umrah.
- Tawaf: Upon arrival at the Haram, the first significant ritual is Tawaf, which involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. If possible, begin at the black stone (Hajr Aswad) corner of the Kaaba, or raise your hand and say "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar" as you start each circuit. This act of devotion signifies your submission to Allah.
- Sa'i: After you finish Tawaf, you'll do Sa'i. This means you walk back and forth seven times between two hills called Safa and Marwah. This ritual remembers Hajar, who looked for water for her son Ismail. It serves as a reminder to have patience, faith, and believe in Allah's mercy.
- Halq or Taqsir: The last part of Umrah is called Halq for men, where they shave their heads. For both men and women, it's called Taqsir, where they cut a little bit of their hair. This act shows they are humble and starting fresh, meaning they have finished their Umrah.
Types of Umrah Packages
Picking the right Umrah package can make your experience easier and more comfortable. Alhamd Travel offers a variety of packages to suit everyone's needs. So, let's see the different types of Umrah packages we offer.
Economy
Firstly, economy packages are ideal for travelers seeking to focus on their spiritual journey without breaking the bank. They offer a convenient place to stay, basic amenities, and flights from major US cities. Even though they are affordable, they still provide you with whatever you need for a seamless experience.
Luxury
If you want the most comfort and ease, choose a luxury package. It includes staying in 5-star hotels near the Haram, flying with the best airlines, and extra services. With a luxury package, you can focus entirely on your spiritual journey without any other concerns.
Group
Moreover, group packages are great if you like traveling with others. They are cheaper, let you make friends, and help you do the Umrah rituals easily. So, you can share your journey with other pilgrims and feel more supported while in Makkah and Madinah.
Customized
If you want to plan your pilgrimage your way, customized packages let you choose your hotel, airline, meals, and travel dates. They are great for families, older travelers, or anyone who wants a package made just for them.
Family
Family packages are made for families traveling together, including kids and elders. They include hotels suitable for families, easy travel, and help with everything during the journey.
All-Inclusive
Lastly, all-inclusive packages take care of everything for you. They include your flights, hotel, meals, visa, and guided tours. So, you don't need to be concerned about planning anything. This way, you can focus only on your spiritual journey while the experts handle all the arrangements.
Planning Ahead vs. Last-Minute Offers
If you book months in advance, you can get early-bird discounts. That means you pay less and get better choices for hotels and flights. Plus, you have more time to prepare. But if you're flexible with your time, we offer last-minute deals. These are cheaper, but not as customizable. They often include leftover flights or rooms, but still let you perform Umrah.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Package
There are many options for Umrah packages. So, it helps to consider a few essential things before you decide.
Budget
Firstly, your budget is very important when picking an Umrah package. Some packages are simple and cheap, while others are more expensive and luxurious. Think about how much you can spend and what you want included. Sometimes, paying a little more can make your experience much easier and more comfortable. Remember, even cheap packages can be good and provide everything you need for your journey.
Duration
How long your pilgrimage lasts will affect what you do and how you feel during Umrah. Some people choose short durations to focus only on the religious rituals. Others prefer longer packages so they can rest, see the sights, and spend more time in Makkah and Madinah. So, make sure you choose the duration that gives you enough time to perform Umrah without hurrying.
Hotel Preference
Where you stay can make or break your experience. Hotels close to the Haram make it easy to go for prayers and save you from long travel. Some packages also let you book private rooms or family rooms for more comfort and privacy.
Flights
A good Umrah package with flights means your ticket is already booked. You might fly from New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles for your journey. Some packages even let you choose direct flights, making the retreat shorter and easier.
Payment Options
Moreover, always consider the different ways you can pay for the package. At Alhamd Travel, we offer the option to pay in monthly instalments or all at once. This means, regardless of your budget, you can easily pay for the package.
Flexibility
Lastly, life can change suddenly, and plans don't always go as expected. So, choose Umrah packages that are flexible. This means you can change your travel dates easily. Our flexible packages make sure that any unexpected changes don't ruin your plans, so you can focus entirely on your Umrah.
Umrah Packages From Major US Cities
Going for Umrah from the USA is simple with Alhamd Travel. No matter which city you live in, we have packages for you. So, here's a look at options from some big cities in the US.
Umrah from Houston
Flying from Houston? Our Umrah packages from Houston make your experience simple and comfortable. We offer easy one-stop flights and ensure smooth transfers in Saudi Arabia.
Umrah from Chicago
If you are leaving for Umrah from Chicago, Alhamd Travel can assist with your plans. You can take quick flights and stay near the Holy Mosque. We take care of your visa, airport rides, and anything else you need.
Umrah from New York
People in New York can take advantage of our special travel packages designed for those in New York to go on Umrah. They include your flight, hotel, food, and help from guides, making your experience easy and smooth.
Umrah from Washington
Moreover, people travelling from Washington, D.C. can choose our special Umrah packages made to fit their needs and schedule. The packages include convenient flights, hotels close to the Haram, and guides to help you with each step of the rituals.
Umrah from Los Angeles
Lastly, our Umrah packages from Los Angeles make your experience easy and worry-free. We arrange flights with a few stops, choose hotels close to the Haram, and help with your visa.
Best Time to Perform Umrah
You can do Umrah any time, but some months often offer a better experience. So, let's look at the best times for your pilgrimage.
Months After Hajj (Muharram & Rajab)
Firstly, the months right after Hajj, like Muharram and Rajab, are very good for doing Umrah. Fewer people visit during these months, making the holy places less crowded. This makes it easier to pray and do all the rituals.
Spring (February to May)
Moreover, Spring is a very popular time for people from the USA to go for Umrah. The weather in Makkah and Madinah is nice, with cool mornings and evenings, making it easier to walk during the rituals. You can feel peaceful and focus on your prayers without the very hot summer weather.
Autumn (September to November)
Lastly, Autumn is another excellent time for Umrah. There are fewer people than in summer or winter, so it is calmer and easier to focus on your prayers. It is also more comfortable because of the cooler weather. This time is also suitable for saving money, as there are many affordable November Umrah packages available.
Essential Requirements for Umrah From the USA
Before you go on your Umrah from the USA, you need to make sure you have everything ready. This guide will help you know what to do.
Valid Passport
Firstly, your passport is very important. It must remain valid for a minimum of six months after the day you travel. Make sure it has blank pages for visas and stamps. Also, if it is about to expire, renew it early so you don't face problems.
Umrah Visa Requirements
To go for Umrah, you need a special Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia. We can help you get it with our complete packages. We will collect your papers, submit your application, and provide you with the visa once it's approved. However, for that, you will need to provide us with a few essential documents.
- A valid passport
- New passport-size photos
- Papers showing your travel and hotel bookings
Age Restrictions
Saudi Arabia has rules about the age of people going for Umrah. Kids under 18 must go with a parent or guardian. Older people can travel, but they should consider their health and ability to move around. Alhamd Travel can help you understand these age rules and make travel, hotel, and group arrangements easy.
Vaccination
You must get certain vaccines before going to Saudi Arabia. Everyone should get the meningitis (ACWY) vaccine. It's best to get it at least two weeks before your journey. You might need other vaccines depending on your health or new rules. Also, always carry your vaccine papers with you when you travel.
Dress Code
Lastly, it's important to wear the right clothes. Men wear two plain white cloths called the Ihram and should not wear stitched clothes. Women should cover their bodies with loose, modest clothing. Neither men nor women should use perfume or scented products while in Ihram. Also, as you will be walking a lot during Tawaf and Sa'i, wear comfortable shoes.
Getting Your Heart and Mind Ready
Before thinking about bags or tickets, you must consider your intention. This is called "niyyah" in Arabic. It means you're doing this journey for Allah, not for fun or showing off. So sit down, close your eyes, and ask yourself: Why am I going for Umrah? If your answer is to get closer to Allah, you're already on the right path.
Take a moment to ask Allah for forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes. But Umrah is a way to start fresh. Read about Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and how he performed Umrah. It will help you feel more connected and give you confidence.
Also, list all the duas (prayers) you want to say. Some can be for yourself, and some can be for your family or friends. Try to learn the duas that go with each step of the Umrah so you know what to say at the right time. It will make the journey feel even more special.
Get Your Body Ready Too
You will be walking a lot during the Umrah. The Kaaba is big, and going around it seven times (called Tawaf) takes energy. Then there's the walk between Safa and Marwah (called Sa'i). So, a few weeks before your flight, start walking daily. Even 20 minutes a day can help.
Wear shoes that don't hurt your feet. If you take medicine, pack it. The weather in Saudi Arabia can be very hot, so carry sunscreen, water, and simple clothes that keep you cool. Men need to wear two white cloths called the Ihram. Women can wear any modest, loose dress that covers their bodies.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Umrah Package
Here's how you can make the most of it.
- Double-check your passport and visa before your flight.
- Carry a copy of your booking and travel schedule.
- Make a list of duas to read while in Makkah and Madinah.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
- Drink plenty of water because it's hot in Saudi Arabia!
- Keep a small prayer mat and Qur'an with you.
You don't need to stress over flights or hotel bookings. Let Alhamd Travel take care of it. Then you can focus on what matters: your prayers, your connection with Allah, and your spiritual peace.
No matter what type of package you choose, group, private, standard, or all-inclusive, just remember: every step you take towards Makkah brings you closer to your faith.
Why Choose Alhamd Travel for Your Umrah Package?
Booking through us ensures everything is handled correctly.
One-Stop Travel Solution
Booking through us means you're getting everything sorted in one place. All the essentials are handled professionally, from booking flights to hotel stays. No more running between agencies or calling multiple service providers. You make one booking, and we handle the rest.
Stress-Free for First-Timers
Traveling to Umrah for the first time can be overwhelming. There's a lot to figure out, like visa applications, choosing the right hotel near the Haram, and meal options. Alhamd Travel makes this easy. We guide you step by step so you always know what's coming next. We've designed our packages with first-time travelers in mind.
Trusted and Transparent Service
With years of experience, Alhamd Travel has earned the trust of thousands of customers. We don't hide costs or surprise you with hidden fees. Everything in your Umrah package is clearly explained. What you see is what you pay. Our team is always available to answer questions, provide updates, and help you if something unexpected happens.
Flexible Packages for Every Budget
We know that every pilgrim is different. Some people want complete luxury, while others want something affordable and straightforward. We offer various Umrah packages, from basic economy to VIP five-star plans. No matter your budget, we help you get the most value for your money.