Introduction
Preparing for Umrah is a moment of spiritual excitement and careful planning. When you choose Royal Travel Manchester, you tap into years of experience and personalized service. Whether this is your first pilgrimage or you’re returning, the right travel partner makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire booking Umrah process with Royal Travel Manchester. From selecting the perfect package to receiving your visa, every step is clear and easy to follow. Let’s begin your journey toward a meaningful and stress-free Umrah.
Step-by-Step Process of Booking Umrah with Royal Travel Manchester
1. Research and Choose Your Umrah Package
Understand Package Types
Royal Travel Manchester offers a range of Umrah packages to suit different budgets and preferences:
- Economy Packages: Basic hotels near the Haram, shared transport, and essential services.
- Standard Packages: Mid-range hotels, private transfers, guided tours, and some meals included.
- Premium Packages: 4–5 star hotels, private drivers, full meal plans, and VIP lounge access at airports.
Compare Inclusions and Prices
Before you commit:
- Check hotel star ratings and distance from Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi.
- Review transport arrangements: shared coach or private vehicle.
- Note additional services: Ziyarah tours, guided scholars, and meal plans.
- Look at group size. Smaller groups often enjoy more flexible schedules and personalized care.
Royal Travel Manchester’s website lists all details. Take your time to find the package that fits your spiritual goals and budget.
2. Contact Royal Travel Manchester
Reach Out for a Consultation
Once you narrow your options, contact their team:
- Phone: Call their Manchester office during business hours.
- Email: Send an inquiry with your preferred dates, number of pilgrims, and package choice.
- Live Chat: Use the website’s live chat feature for instant answers.
Ask Key Questions
During your consultation, confirm:
- Package availability on your desired dates.
- Deposit amount and full payment deadlines.
- Cancellation and refund policies.
- Visa processing times and requirements.
- Any special requests (dietary needs, wheelchair access, etc.).
A friendly travel advisor will guide you, ensuring you feel confident before proceeding.
3. Reserve Your Package with a Deposit
Review the Booking Form
Royal Travel Manchester will send a booking form or link. Double-check:
- Your full name as on passport.
- Passport number, expiry date, and nationality.
- Date of birth and contact details.
- Chosen hotel, room type, and package inclusions.
Pay the Deposit
Most packages require a deposit, often 20–30% of the total cost.
- Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit/credit card, or PayPal.
- Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive a receipt and provisional confirmation.
Paying a deposit locks in your package and rate, even if prices rise later.
4. Gather Required Documents
Passport and Photo Requirements
To process your Umrah visa, you need:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your travel dates.
- Two recent passport-sized photos, white background, clear face.
Additional Paperwork
Depending on your nationality, you may need:
- Proof of UK residency or visa status.
- Completed visa application form (Royal Travel Manchester usually handles this).
- Health declaration or vaccination certificates (e.g., for meningitis).
Royal Travel Manchester provides a checklist. Follow it closely to avoid delays.
5. Complete Visa Processing
Submit Documents to Your Agent
Send physical or scanned copies of your passport, photos, and any extras.
Royal Travel Manchester will:
- Submit your application to the Saudi visa authorities.
- Pay the visa processing fees on your behalf.
- Track your application status.
Receive Your Visa
Processing typically takes 5–10 working days. Once approved:
- You’ll receive an electronic visa or a stamped passport.
- Check all details (name spelling, dates, visa type) carefully.
- Inform your travel agent if anything is incorrect.
With your visa in hand, you’re ready to finalize travel arrangements.
6. Book Your Flights
Flight Options
Royal Travel Manchester can book flights as part of your package or advise you:
- Direct Flights: From Manchester to Jeddah or Madinah.
- Connecting Flights: Via major hubs like Dubai or Istanbul, often cheaper.
Timing Considerations
- Aim to arrive at least one day before your first visit to the Haram.
- Factor in rest time after a long flight.
- Choose departure dates at least one day after your final ziyarah to avoid rushing.
Once you provide passport details, your travel advisor will issue your e-tickets.
7. Final Payment and Confirmation
Pay Remaining Balance
Check your booking invoice for the final payment date.
- Use the same payment methods as the deposit.
- Request an official receipt upon completion.
Receive Full Confirmation
After full payment, Royal Travel Manchester will send:
- Final itinerary (flight times, hotel details, transport schedule).
- Emergency contact numbers.
- Guide or group leader information.
Review every detail to ensure accuracy.
8. Pre-Departure Briefing
Attend an Orientation Session
Royal Travel Manchester often holds online or in-person briefings. Topics include:
- Ihram rules and how to enter Ihram.
- Travel tips for airport and hotel.
- Ziyarah schedule and key sites to visit.
- Health and safety advice (hydration, sun protection).
Prepare Your Luggage
Pack essentials:
- Ihram clothing (two white sheets for men; modest attire for women).
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
- Small backpack for daily use (water bottle, snacks, prayer mat).
- Prayer gear: tasbeeh beads, pocket Qur’an, travel prayer rug.
Keep important documents (passport, visa, tickets) in a secure travel pouch.
9. Arrival in Saudi Arabia
Airport Procedures
- Immigration: Present passport and e-visa.
- Baggage: Collect luggage promptly.
- Customs: Declare any items if required.
Your Royal Travel Manchester rep or driver will meet you at the arrivals hall.
Transfer to Hotel
- Enjoy a private or shared transfer to your Makkah or Madinah hotel.
- Your guide will help with check-in and room orientation.
Take time to rest before your first Umrah rituals.
10. Performing Umrah
Entering Ihram
At the prescribed miqat point or your hotel:
- Change into Ihram clothing.
- Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah.
- Recite the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Umrah.”
Tawaf and Sa’i
- Tawaf: Circle the Kaaba seven times, starting at the Black Stone.
- Sa’i: Walk seven times between Safa and Marwah hills.
Your guide will accompany you, offering tips to maintain calm and focus.
Shaving or Trimming Hair
After Sa’i, men shave or trim their hair; women cut a small lock to complete the ritual.
Congratulations—your Umrah is complete! Your guide will explain next steps for Ziyarah visits.
Conclusion
Booking Umrah with Royal Travel Manchester is a smooth, step-by-step process designed to let you focus on your spiritual journey. You begin by choosing the best Umrah package, then reserve your spot with a deposit. Next, you prepare documents, secure your visa, and finalize flights. A pre-departure briefing ensures you travel with confidence. Upon arrival, their team guides you through every moment, from Ihram to Tawaf and Sa’i. By following this clear process, you gain peace of mind and can devote your heart to worship. May your pilgrimage be blessed, and may Royal Travel Manchester make your Umrah experience truly memorable.
