Umrah Travel Guide for Solo Female Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia’s recent progression in easing restrictions on solo female travelers has ushered in a wave of transformative changes, reflecting a progressive era in its rich history. Now, more than ever, women can experience the spiritual journey of performing Umrah independently without a Mahram.

With the right knowledge and Umrah preparation, you too can seize this blessed opportunity. This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in every step of your journey – from securing an Umrah Visa, to booking your hotel, preparing for Umrah, and many more.

Let’s delve into the detailed world of Umrah travel, tailored especially for solo female pilgrims, to ensure a smooth, spiritually enriching Umrah experience.

Visa and Booking Information

Understanding the visa process is a significant first step in preparing for your Umrah journey. The recent introduction of Saudi Arabia’s eVisa system has made this aspect much simpler, with the Nusuk platform providing a seamless application process.  

The eVisa provides a one-year, multiple-entry permit, allowing tourists to stay in the country for up to 90 days. It’s ideal for tourism activities such as events, family visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj), but doesn’t cover pursuits like studying.

Additionally, international visitors from 63 eligible countries can easily apply for this eVisa through the user-friendly online portal. For more information on Saudi visas, you can check out our post here. 

Once you’re on the Nusuk website, select the ‘Apply for Visa’ option. Follow through and you will be able to find out the eligibility and application process.

For a better understanding, here’s a walkthrough of the process:

• For US, UK, or EU citizens and permanent residents:
  • 4 visa options are available: eVisa Online, Visa on Arrival, Visa through Package, and Transit or Stopover Visa.
  • eVisa Price: SAR 494.21 (Subject to change – refer to the Nusuk website for exact pricing) 
  • Application Fee: Subject to change
  • Medical Insurance Fee: Subject to change
  • Entry: Multiple Entry
  • Validity: The multiple-entry visa is valid for a year from its issue date and allows for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date into Saudi Arabia.
• For GCC residents: 
  • 3 visa options are available: eVisa Online, Visa through Package, Transit or Stopover Visa.
  • eVisa Price: SAR 300 (Subject to change – refer to the Nusuk website for exact pricing)
  • Application Fee: Subject to change
  • Medical Insurance Fees: Not included (price determined based on the provider)
  • Entry: Multiple entry or single entry depending on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Validity: The multiple-entry visa is valid for a year from its issue date and allows for stays of up to 90 days.
• For non-GCC residents and residents outside US, UK, or EU:
  • They do not have the eVisa option. Available options are Visa through Package, Authorized Visa Offices, Embassy or Consulate, and Transit or Stopover Visa.

While Umrahme does not directly offer visa services, we can assist in arranging it for you. Get in touch with us today.  

Download the Nusuk app on your iPhone, Android, or Huawei device to book your Umrah visa, Rawdah visits, and Ziyarah appointments. 

Your All-In-One Umrah Journey with Umrahme

Once you have received your eVisa for Umrah, it’s time to move on to the exciting part–booking your journey. At Umrahme, we offer comprehensive packages covering your hotels, flights, and transfers. Tailor your trip by deciding whether to visit just Makkah or include Madinah in your spiritual journey.

Check out our blog on the best time to visit Makkah and Madinah. 

• Hotels: Whether you seek the magnificence of a 5-star hotel, the comfort of a 4-star stay, or the affordability of 3-star accommodation, our curated options ensure you find the perfect resting place during your pilgrimage.
• Flights: For pilgrims traveling by air, we recommend booking a flight to Jeddah International Airport, as it’s the primary gateway and closest to reaching Makkah. With our wide network of flight partnerships, we guarantee a smooth travel experience to and from the sacred sites.
• Transfers: Say goodbye to the hassle of finding transport during your trip. Our airport transfer, intercity transfer and local transfer services ensure a seamless transition from one place to another.

Every pilgrim’s need is unique, and our goal is to offer tailored packages that suit individual preferences. With Umrahme, not only do you get everything under one roof, but you also secure the best deals available. Unlock massive savings with our best deals – book your Umrah package today!

Best Hotels for Female Solo Travelers Near Masjid al-Haram

Traveling solo means your comfort is key. To ensure a comfortable, enriching, and hassle-free experience, it is recommended to book accommodations close to Masjid al-Haram.  

The ideal choice would be hotels that offer an inspiring Ka’aba view. The added advantage of proximity means you won’t have to worry about commuting back and forth. This makes them perfect for you as a solo traveler, allowing you more time to focus on your spiritual journey. 

The top 5 hotels near Masjid Al Haram with Ka’aba view: 

• Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower 
• Jabal Omar Marriott Hotel Makkah 
• Raffles Makkah Palace Hotel 
• Dar Al Tawhid Intercontinental 
• Hilton Suites Makkah 

For more information on these hotels, you can check out our post here. 

The top 5 hotels near Al-Masjid an-Nabawī in Madinah: 

• The Oberoi Madinah 
• Anwar Al Madinah Movenpick Hotel 
• Dar Al Taqwa Hotel Madinah 
• Shahd Al Madinah 
• Pullman Zamzam Madinah  

Looking for the best places to eat in Makkah? Check out our post Best 10 Restaurants in Makkah 

Umrah Preparation for Ladies 

Once visa and booking details are sorted, it’s time to prepare yourself for the sacred journey ahead.    

Umrah Packing Essentials 

Packing for Umrah requires careful thinking. Here’s a quick list of essentials to pack: 

• Travel documents 
• Ihram clothing 
• Extra clothes 
• Personal hygiene products 
• Medication and First aid kit 
• Comfortable footwear 
• Extra hijabs 
• Electronic devices and accessories 

To help you cover every detail, read our Umrah packing checklist blog, ensuring you’re perfectly prepared for the pilgrimage. 

Keeping Documents Handy 

Always keep your documents such as passport, ID, visa print-out, and hotel reservation handy. It can save a lot of time and hassle during your travel. 

Plan Before Departure 

Before setting off, make sure all preparations are finalized. Consider an early check-in for your flight, double-check your hotel’s check-in and check-out schedules, and keep copies of your visa documents readily accessible. 

Should any issues arise or if you have last-minute inquiries, feel free to reach us via WhatsApp. We’re here to assist and ensure your Umrah journey goes smoothly.

12 Essential Tips for Solo Female Pilgrims Performing Umrah 

Performing Umrah is a blessing and an unforgettable experience. For ladies, apart from the general rituals, certain specifics need to be taken into account. 

1. No mahram needed: The Saudi Arabian government has decreed that female travelers can now enter the kingdom without the accompaniment of a mahram.
2. Ihram attire: As a woman, your Ihram can consist of loose, modest clothing in line with Islamic guidelines. Pack at least two sets of Ihram to ensure you have a spare. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabric, as you will be wearing it throughout your journey.
3. Wearing the Ihram: Wear your Ihram at the airport prior to departure if traveling by air. Ensure to put it on before crossing the designated Miqat. Make sure to do ghusl before leaving home.
4. Performing the Umrah rituals: From performing Tawaf around the Kaaba, completing Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, to shortening the hair, all procedures remain the same for both genders.
   Here’s a list of duas you can recite while performing Umrah – Guide to Umrah Dua, Supplications, and Adhkar.
   Watch the step-by-step Umrah rituals for first–time pilgrims here
5. Prayer place: Women can pray anywhere in the Masjid Al Haram, but for peace and comfort, choose less crowded areas. There are even designated sections for women.
6. Secure your belongings: Keep your valuable belongings in a safe place while performing Umrah. You can keep your passport and extra cash in the safety vault provided by the hotel.
7. Stay hydrated: You can carry an empty disposable water bottle along with you and fill it in with Zamzam water at the Masjid. Keep hydrating yourself while performing Umrah.
8. Stay connected: Carry a local sim card to stay connected. Many remote areas may not have coverage, so inform people about your travel plans.
9. Get your Rawdah permit: If you’re planning to visit Madinah, after Umrah, make sure to book your appointment on the Nusuk app prior to your visit to Rawdah Sharif.
10. Spiritual preparedness: The most essential tip is to prepare your mind, body, and soul for this beautiful spiritual journey. Read ahead to know how you can have a meaningful Umrah and keep the spirit alive.
11. Emergency numbers: Keep a list of emergency numbers. This should include local police, healthcare services, and your country’s embassy number in Saudi Arabia.
    Police: 999
    Ambulance: 997
    For traffic accidents: 993
    Civil defense: 998
    Highway Patrol: 996 
    Tourism call center: 930
12. Understand local customs: Respect Saudi’s culture and traditions. For example, dress code, prayer times when places close, interactions between men and women, etc. 

In conclusion, undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage as a solo female traveler is indeed a unique experience, requiring both preparation and understanding. 

At Umrahme, our carefully tailored packages address your unique needs, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of your journey. We invite you to explore our offerings and secure the best deals available.  

Make this spiritual journey a memory to cherish – book your Umrah package with us today!