Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and can be performed throughout the year (except during the Hajj season). A 15‑day package strikes a practical balance between having enough time to perform all rituals—such as Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)—and controlling costs, which makes it an ideal choice for first‑time pilgrims or those who prefer a relaxed pace. Many packages include round‑trip flights from Pakistan, hotel accommodation for around 14 nights, ground transportation, visa processing assistance, and travel insurance. Detailed itineraries sometimes also involve visits to key religious sites (ziyarat) and local guided tours.
Types and Costs of 15‑Day Umrah Packages
Economy Packages
Designed for budget‑conscious pilgrims, these typically start around Rs. 248,800 per person. They provide basic accommodation in hotels with shuttle services and cover the essentials: round‑trip flights, visa, ground transportation, and hotel stays.
Family Packages
For those traveling with family members, packages generally range between Rs. 274,200 and Rs. 319,800 per person. They feature better hotels (often with extra space and comfort) and are designed to accommodate the needs of groups while keeping the cost in check.
Near Haram Packages
These mid‑range packages—starting at roughly Rs. 295,800—offer hotels that are within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the Haram. They strike a balance by offering convenience with moderate pricing.
VIP Packages
Targeted at luxury seekers, VIP packages start around Rs. 408,150 and can go as high as over Rs. 655,750 per person. These include stays in 5‑star hotels right on the Haram boundary along with premium services and private transportation.
Visa Requirements and Process
Essential Documents
To perform Umrah, Pakistani pilgrims must secure a Saudi Umrah visa. The typical requirements include:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the travel date.
- Recent passport‑sized photos on a white background.
- A duly filled visa application form.
- Proof of necessary vaccinations (meningitis and polio certificates) and, in some cases, a Covid‑19 vaccination certificate.
- For women under 45, documentation proving a relationship with a mahram is usually required—unless travelling with an organized group that meets the updated regulatory criteria.
Processing and Fees
Most travel agencies assist with the visa process and emphasize applying at least 2 months in advance to prevent delays. Saudi Umrah visa processing usually takes 5–10 working days, and while some visa categories have a fixed fee (around SAR 680–750, plus a biometric fee), many agencies offer comprehensive packages in which the visa fees are bundled in the overall price. Recent changes and temporary suspensions (for instance, as seen in news updates that mention visa bans on 14 countries including Pakistan until mid‑June 2025) mean it is vital to check the latest advisories
Flight Options and Costs
Flight prices from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia vary widely depending on the airline, class, booking time, and season. Some typical ranges include:
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers fares roughly between Rs. 154,486 to Rs. 270,576.
- Budget airlines like Flynas can offer competitive rates ranging from approximately Rs. 125,841 to Rs. 282,500.
- Premium carriers such as Saudia Airlines and Turkish Airlines tend to be pricier, with direct or one‑stop options available.
Accommodation Choices in Makkah and Madinah
Accommodation is one of the most critical factors that shape the overall Umrah experience:
- In Makkah: Options range from basic economy hotels like Luluat Al Badaie (about 600 meters from Haram) to luxury choices such as the Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel (located right on the Haram boundary).
- In Madinah: Similar tiers exist—from budget options like Rehab Al Madain to mid‑range hotels such as Golden Ergwan and 5‑star properties like Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick.
The proximity to the holy sites and the availability of shuttle services are particularly important. Reviews and ratings on trusted travel platforms help pilgrims choose accommodation that meets both their spiritual needs and comfort preferences.
Optimal Timing for Umrah
Choosing the best time to perform Umrah can greatly affect both the spiritual ambience and the travel cost:
- Off‑Peak Seasons: Months such as Muharram, Shawwal, and Rabi ul Awwal are popular for their relatively lower crowds and better rates.
- Ramadan: While spiritually rewarding, Ramadan packages may be more expensive due to high demand and limited availability.
- Avoiding Extreme Weather: Summer months (June–August) in Saudi Arabia can be extremely hot, which might affect comfort, especially for extended trips.
Packing Essentials and Additional Travel Tips
Must-Haves
- Ihram Clothing: Two white sheets (for men) or simple abaya/hijab attire (for women) essential for entering the state of Ihram.
- Comfortable Footwear: Since pilgrims will be doing a lot of walking, supportive shoes or sandals are recommended.
- Religious Items: Prayer mats, Qur’an, Tasbeeh (prayer beads), and any other items that help you maintain your focus during prayers.
- Health Supplies: Medications, a basic first‑aid kit, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle (often filled with Zamzam water upon arrival).
- Travel Documents: Always secure your passport, visa confirmation, flight tickets, hotel bookings, and emergency cash.
Additional Considerations
- Booking in Advance: For both flights and packages, early booking usually secures better rates and availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Group vs. Individual Packages: Group packages can be more economical due to shared costs and can foster a shared sense of community, whereas individual packages offer more flexibility and privacy.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
A 15‑day Umrah package from Pakistan offers a balanced blend of time, cost, and spiritual depth. Whether you choose an economy, family, near Haram, or VIP package, each option is designed to ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage experience. With comprehensive support—from visa processing, detailed itineraries, and coordinated flights, to choice accommodations and transport arrangements—pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey.
Before booking, it is advisable to:
- Carefully review the package details and inclusions.
- Check the latest visa regulations and any temporary travel advisories.
- Compare flight options and hotel amenities.
Plan your itinerary around favorable travel seasons to maximize comfort and cost savings.