
DIY Umrah 2026: How to Plan a Luxury Trip for Cheap (Step-by-Step Guide)
DIY Umrah 2026: How to Plan a Luxury Trip for Cheap (Step-by-Step)
Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Gone are the days when you had to book a $2,000 package with a travel agent. In 2026, planning your own Umrah is easier than everβand it can save you 50% or more.
This guide will show you exactly how to book your own flights, hotels, visa, and transport to create a VIP experience on a budget.
Why DIY? The Math Doesn't Lie
- Agency Package (10 Days): $2,200 per person.
- DIY Cost (10 Days): $1,200 per person.
- Savings: $1,000 (per person!).
Plus, you get to choose your own hotels and travel dates. No more "group leader" telling you when to wake up.
Step 1: The Visa (Do This First)
- Cost: ~$120 USD.
- Where: KSA Visa Official Site.
- Tip: If you are from the UK, USA, or EU, get the Tourist eVisa. It's instant.
Step 2: The Flights
- Strategy: Use Google Flights or Skyscanner.
- Tip: Look for "Open Jaw" tickets (Arrive in Jeddah, Depart from Madinah). This saves you the hassle of traveling back to Jeddah for your flight home.
Step 3: The Hotels
- Makkah: Look for hotels in the "Ajyad" or "Ibrahim Al Khalil" areas. They are walkable to the Haram but 40% cheaper than the Clock Tower hotels.
- Madinah: Most hotels in the "Central Area" are good. Just check the reviews.
Step 4: The Transport (The Missing Link)
This is where most DIY pilgrims get stuck. They land at Jeddah and get ripped off by airport taxis.
Don't let a bad taxi ride ruin your perfect DIY trip.
The Solution: Pre-book your transfers with UmrahTransit.
- Jeddah Airport β Makkah Hotel
- Makkah Hotel β Madinah Hotel
- Madinah Hotel β Airport
We provide a Booking Voucher that you can keep on your phone. It's professional, reliable, and cheaper than the airport taxi stand.
β Get Your Transport Voucher Here β
Step 5: The Nusuk App
- Download it: Essential for booking your Rawdah slot in Madinah.
- Book Early: Slots open weekly. Be ready to book as soon as they drop.
Sample DIY Itinerary (10 Days)
- Day 1: Land in Jeddah. Private Transfer to Makkah. Perform Umrah.
- Day 2-5: Makkah (Prayers & Ziyarat).
- Day 6: Private GMC Transfer to Madinah (Morning).
- Day 7-9: Madinah (Rawdah & Ziyarat).
- Day 10: Depart from Madinah Airport.
Total Estimated Cost: $1,200 (including 5-star transport).
Ready to start planning?
Need Safe, Reliable Umrah Transportation?
Book with UmrahTransit for professional, door-to-door transfers between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah. Licensed drivers, modern vehicles, and 24/7 support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to book Umrah without an agent?
Yes, absolutely. Millions of pilgrims do it every year. The visa and hotel booking systems are now fully digital and easy to use.
How do I get from Jeddah to Makkah if I don't have a group bus?
You simply book a private transfer. It's faster, more comfortable, and surprisingly affordable.
Related Articles

Umrah in Rajab 2025/2026: The 'Hidden' Sacred Season (Starts Dec 21) | Complete Guide
π Rajab 2026 starts Dec 21! Discover why this 'hidden' sacred season offers a peaceful, VIP experience for 50% less than Ramadan. Book now!
Read Article β
Makkah & Madinah Ziyarat Taxi Prices 2026: Official Rates vs. Scams
π Don't get ripped off! Official 2026 Ziyarat taxi prices for Makkah & Madinah. Compare street rates vs. fair market prices. Save money & stress.
Read Article β
How to Plan a DIY Umrah in 2026: Step-by-Step (Visa, Flights & Transport)
π οΈ Plan your own Umrah in 2026! Step-by-step guide to booking Visa, Flights, and Transport yourself. Save $500+ per person with this blueprint.
Read Article β