Help
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers to the questions UK pilgrims ask us most often. Can't find what you need? Message us on WhatsApp - we reply within minutes.
Before You Book
Who is Emigre Travel?+
Emigre Travel is a UK-based, IATA-registered travel agency specialising in Umrah for the British Muslim community. We have been arranging pilgrimages for over 35 years.
How early should I book my Umrah?+
For peak periods (Ramadan, school holidays, year-end), book 8–12 weeks in advance to secure the best fares and hotels. For off-peak months, 4–6 weeks is usually sufficient.
Can I customise a package?+
Absolutely - every itinerary can be adjusted. Speak to our team for tailored departure cities, hotel upgrades, longer stays in Madinah or specific airline preferences.
Do you offer group packages for mosques or families?+
Yes. We run group packages for mosques, families, women-only groups and student groups. Group leaders receive complimentary places on most large bookings.
How do I know my booking is safe?+
We are an IATA-registered UK agency and you receive written confirmation of every element of your package - flights, hotels, visa and transport - immediately after booking.
Visa & Documentation
Is the Umrah visa included in your packages?+
Yes - every package includes Umrah visa application and processing. We handle the entire process on your behalf.
How long does the visa take to process?+
Most Umrah visas are issued within 5–10 working days. Peak season can take a little longer - we recommend providing documents at least 4 weeks before travel.
What documents do I need to provide?+
Passport with at least 6 months validity, two passport photos with a white background, completed application form, and proof of vaccination (where required at time of travel).
Do children need their own visas?+
Yes - every traveller, regardless of age, requires their own Umrah visa. Children must have a valid passport.
Are women still required to travel with a mahram?+
Saudi rules have evolved. Women aged 18+ may now perform Umrah without a mahram under most circumstances. We can confirm your eligibility based on your personal details.
Flights & Travel
Which UK airports do you fly from?+
London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton), Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, East Midlands, and Glasgow. Connecting flights from other cities can be arranged.
How long is the flight from the UK to Saudi Arabia?+
Direct flights from London to Jeddah are around 6–7 hours. One-stop flights via Dubai, Doha or Istanbul typically take 9–11 hours including layover.
Can I select my airline?+
Yes - we work with Saudia, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and others. Tell us your preference and we will price accordingly.
Do I need to enter Ihram before flying?+
Yes - most pilgrims enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat (the boundary near Jeddah). Our team will guide you on when and where to enter Ihram during your journey.
Hotels & Accommodation
How close are the hotels to the Haram?+
Our 5★ hotels are within 50–250m of the Haram. Our 4★ hotels are typically 200–500m away, and our 3★ economy hotels are 400–800m. All distances are walking distance.
Are meals included?+
All packages include daily breakfast on a continental and Asian buffet. Lunch and dinner are not included - food courts and restaurants are available at both hotels and around the Haram.
Can I request a specific room type?+
Yes - single, double, triple, and quad sharing are all available. Single occupancy carries a supplement; family rooms are available on request.
Do hotels accommodate dietary requirements?+
Most hotels offer halal-only food (the standard in Saudi Arabia) and can cater to vegetarian, gluten-free and other requirements with advance notice.
During Umrah
Will there be a scholar with my group?+
Guided and VIP packages include a UK-based scholar throughout. Standard packages have a guide who is available on call for ritual questions.
What if I need medical help in Saudi Arabia?+
Both Makkah and Madinah have excellent medical facilities. Our 24/7 in-journey support team can coordinate care, translation and insurance claims.
Is there support for elderly pilgrims or those with mobility needs?+
Yes - wheelchair hire, electric scooters and porter services can all be arranged at both Haramain. Please notify us in advance so we can prepare.
Can I extend my stay once I am in Saudi Arabia?+
Extensions are possible subject to visa validity and airline availability. Contact our team on WhatsApp at least 5 days before your planned return.
What about Ziyarat (visiting historical sites)?+
Most packages include a guided ziyarat tour of the historical sites in Madinah (Quba, Uhud, Qiblatain). Makkah ziyarat is included with most 4★ and 5★ packages.
Payments & Cancellations
How do I pay?+
We accept secure card payments (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), bank transfers and instalment plans for bookings made 60+ days before departure.
How much deposit is required?+
A non-refundable deposit of £200 per person secures your booking. The balance is due 8 weeks before departure.
Do you offer instalment plans?+
Yes - for bookings 60+ days before travel, you can split the balance into 2–3 monthly instalments at no extra cost.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Cancellation charges depend on how close to departure you cancel. Detailed terms are in your booking confirmation. Travel insurance covering cancellation is strongly recommended.
Can I make changes to my booking after payment?+
Yes - free amendments are available up to 14 days before departure (subject to airline and hotel rules). After this, change fees may apply.
Is travel insurance included?+
No - travel insurance is a separate purchase, but we strongly recommend it. We can refer you to specialist Umrah insurance partners.
What if I need to cancel due to a medical emergency?+
If you have travel insurance with cancellation cover, the insurer typically covers non-refundable costs. We will provide all the documentation you need to claim.