Group Umrah has become increasingly popular in recent years among first-timers, budget pilgrims, and those looking for a well-organized pilgrimage experience. Tour operators highlight group Umrah packages as a stress-free and smooth way to perform Umrah without breaking the bank. These deals typically include all the essential amenities that a pilgrim needs. However, with this popularity, a question often comes to mind: is a group Umrah really worth the hype? The answer to this question depends on your preferences. If you are looking for a cost-effective way to perform Umrah within a large group (20 to 30 pilgrims), then these deals are fully worth it. On the other hand, if you prefer a more flexible and personalized journey, Umrah packages for group might not be the best option. These packages usually follow a strict routine in which everyone might not be comfortable. With that being said, let’s evaluate the pros and cons of Umrah group packages to help you decide if it is the right option for you or not.
Benefits of Performing Umrah with a Group
Cost-Effectiveness
The biggest benefit of performing Umrah with a group is that it is pocket-friendly. Group Umrah deals often come with rooms with quad-sharing and shared transport services. This reduces the per head cost of each pilgrim and allows the travel agency to offer deals at lower prices. In this way, pilgrims can find a cheaper deal with more or less the same facilities that are included in luxury Umrah packages. The saved money can be used for various other purposes, such as buying gifts or enjoying better meals.
Organized Schedule
The first Umrah or Hajj can get quite overwhelming, as pilgrims are usually not aware of what to do, where to go, and which places to visit other than the holy mosques. In the best group Umrah deals, pilgrims are given a fixed plan that includes all the aspects of the journey. For example, they give enough time to perform Umrah and arrange for ziyarats to holy places as well. They also take you out for shopping and excursions. In Umrah groups, there are experienced pilgrims as well, who can guide the first-timers on all religious and non-religious matters.
All Amenities Included
The biggest plus point of group Umrah packages is that they come with all the essential amenities like visa processing, flights, hotels, airport-to-hotel transfers & vice versa, on-ground transportation, and the services of the guide. Pilgrims don’t have to worry about anything during their trip, and they can focus fully on worship.
Guidance for Umrah Rituals
The services of an expert guide are usually included in group Umrah packages. Pilgrims on their first Umrah can easily get confused while performing Umrah due to the crowds and everyone doing almost the same thing. In such a situation, if an expert guide is performing Umrah with you, he can make it easier for you to perform Umrah by explaining the rituals right before starting the Umrah. He can also stop you during the Umrah if you are doing something wrong and point you in the right direction.
Life-Long Friendships
While this one is not directly related to performing Umrah, it is worth mentioning. The people you perform Umrah with become just like your family members in no time. As the bond is formed in the house of Allah, it is pure and has no worldly intentions behind it. Many people choose to stay connected with each other even after they return home. Most of the pilgrims in the group come from the same city, so it is easier to meet after some time.
Are There Any Potential Drawbacks of Performing Umrah in a Group?
Now that we know about the benefits of performing Umrah in a group, let’s explore some of its limitations.
Less Flexibility
Group Umrah deals follow a set itinerary and timetable. Pilgrims usually have 1 to 2 days to explore the holy cities on their own. Other than that, they have to follow the group’s timetable. For example, you might want to stay a bit longer in Makkah or Madinah, but you won’t be able to, as the traveling schedule is already decided and declared.
Less Privacy
Everyone has to travel, eat, and pray in a group. If you are traveling with your spouse or you have chosen Umrah as your honeymoon, this might not be the ideal solution. Females might not be too comfortable as well.
How to Choose the Right Group Umrah Package?
Now that you know about the potential benefits and drawbacks of a group Umrah, we hope that you are in a better position to decide if it is the right call for you or not. If you want to book a group Umrah deal, here are some tips to help you select the right one.
- Search for group Umrah deals online or ask your friends or family for recommendations. If you are finding an agency online, make sure you look for at least 5-6 different options.
- Filter out their Umrah packages for groups and check the prices along with the services offered. Don’t just go for the cheapest deal; instead, pick one that offers the best value for money.
- While you are browsing through different deals, don’t forget to ensure that the agency is certified by the Saudi Hajj and Umrah Ministry.
- Also, check its reviews, ratings, and feedback on different platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook.
- Last but not least, bargain before paying in advance, ask about hidden charges, and also read their cancellation policies.
Wrap-up
Group Umrah is definitely a better option for first-timers or those looking to perform pilgrimage without spending too much. Muslims Holy Travel, a leading Umrah tour operator in the UK, offers excellent group Umrah packages at affordable rates. Visit their website now to book a deal as per your budget and preferences.
