Complete Umrah & Hajj Guide 2026: Packages, Visa & Planning
Your Sacred Journey Made Simple & Peaceful
Embarking on the pilgrimage to the Holy cities of Makkah al-Mukarramah and Madinah al-Munawwarah is a deeply cherished spiritual milestone. With recent modernizations by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, obtaining visas and booking world-class travel is more transparent than ever.
1. Visa Pathways for Umrah in 2026
Pilgrims have two main visa pathways depending on their nationality and residency:
Instant 1-Year Multiple Entry
Eligible for citizens of over 60 countries, GCC residents, and anyone holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen tourist/business visa. Allows 90 days stay per visit, multiple entries, and permission to perform Umrah throughout the year.
Dedicated Pilgrimage Visa
Available to all nationalities worldwide via authorized Umrah travel operators like MFS Travel. Issued within 24 to 72 hours, valid for 90 days of stay, with full access to Makkah, Madinah, and all other Saudi cities.
2. Package Categories & Estimated Pricing
MFS Travel & Tours curates tailored packages for solo travelers, couples, families, and organized groups. Here is the realistic pricing bracket for 2026 (typically 10 to 14 days split between Makkah and Madinah):
| Package Tier | Hotel Distance to Haram | Estimated Price (per person) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy 3-Star | 400–700m (or 24/7 shuttle) | $750 – $1,100 | Visa, 10-night hotel, shared airport & Ziyarat buses, Ihram kit |
| Executive 4-Star | 150–300m walking distance | $1,250 – $1,750 | Visa, buffet breakfast, Haramain bullet train tickets, private airport transfer |
| VIP Luxury 5-Star | Direct courtyard / Haram View | $2,100 – $3,400 | Clock Tower / Oberoi stays, Haram view suites, private GMC Yukon transport, guide |
3. Ground Logistics: The Haramain High-Speed Train
Gone are the days of 6-hour tedious bus rides between Makkah and Madinah through the desert heat. The ultra-modern Haramain High-Speed Rail connects:
2 Hours 20 Minutes
Operating at 300 km/h, cutting transit time by over 60% with complete air-conditioned comfort.
Jeddah Airport Station
Board directly inside King Abdulaziz International Airport (Terminal 1) straight to Makkah or Madinah.
Economy & Business
Spacious reclining seats, luggage racks, charging ports, and onboard dining café cars.
4. Guided Historical Ziyarat Excursions
Every MFS Travel package includes guided tours to the sacred historic landmarks accompanied by knowledgeable bilingual scholars:
Makkah al-Mukarramah Ziyarat
- • Jabal al-Nour & Cave of Hira: Where the first verses of the Holy Quran were revealed.
- • Jabal Thawr: The cave of sanctuary during the Prophet’s (PBUH) Hijrah.
- • Mina, Arafat & Muzdalifah: The sacred grounds of the Hajj pilgrimage.
- • Jannat al-Mu'alla: Historic resting place of Sayyidah Khadijah (RA).
Madinah al-Munawwarah Ziyarat
- • Masjid Quba: The first mosque built in Islamic history (reward of an Umrah).
- • Mount Uhud & Martyrs Cemetery: Site of the historic Battle of Uhud and Sayyiduna Hamza (RA).
- • Masjid al-Qiblatayn: Where the direction of prayer was shifted towards Makkah.
- • The Seven Mosques (Khandaq): Site of the historic Battle of the Trench.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Umrah Journey with MFS Travel & Tours
Get personalized assistance with Saudi visas, luxury hotels close to Haram, flight bookings, and dedicated ground handling for yourself and your family.