How to Book Private Transfers for Umrah – Costs & Tips
  • blog-date-icon12 Jun, 25
  • blog-user-iconby Muslims Holy Travel

How to Book Private Transfers for Umrah – Costs & Tips

There is no denying the fact that Umrah is one of the holiest worships in Islam. Muslims love to embark on this spiritual journey whenever they can gather resources and find time. Except for the days of Hajj, Umrah is open year-round and it is way more affordable, this is why a large number of pilgrims visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to fulfil their dream.
 
When you arrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there are plenty of things you need to ensure a smooth and hassle-free Umrah experience. Are you planning your Umrah anytime soon? To ensure that your stay is comfortable and stress-free, a private transfer for Umrah is the best option to travel between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah. Having the facility of private transport Umrah during your trip also helps you travel to Masjid al Haram or Masjid e Nabwi from your hotel and visit the holy sites in both cities.

The importance of private transport increases way too much if you are travelling with your family, elderlies or kids. It allows you to manage all the activities at your own pace. While many hotels offer free shuttle services, they have a fixed time and are not as comfortable and convenient as private transport options.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about private transfers for Umrah. We will explain why you need to book a private vehicle, how to book, types of cars available, their cost and some practical booking tips.

Why Should Pilgrims Opt for Private Transfers for Umrah?

Umrah is a physically draining and challenging journey. The rituals like Tawaf and Sai require intense stamina and determination to complete without. In such a situation, pilgrims need a lot of strength before starting the Umrah.

Umrah private transfer can ensure that you don’t get tired while travelling from hotel to mosque or from airport to your hotel. A private taxi for Umrah picks you up from the door of the hotel and drops you at the entrance of Masjid Al Haram before the start of your Umrah. This feature is excellent for pilgrims staying in places that are far away from the central mosque in Makkah. The hotels that are at walking distance to Haram are quite costly, and not everyone can afford them. Hence, in such a situation, private cars or minibuses (for Umrah groups) come in handy.

Muslims Holy Travel provides the best Umrah taxi service in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to ensure a seamless experience. Many of our Umrah packages come with private transport options that offer conveyance as per the pilgrim’s budget and preferences.

Other than the pick-up and drop-off from hotel to mosque, you can also get a private car that takes you from airport to your hotel without any delays. Even if your flight is delayed, the chauffeur will be waiting for you at the airport before your arrival. Our booking agents track your flight in real-time and update our taxi booking partners about the time. In this way, you don’t have to wait at the airport and reach your hotel without getting late.

Types of Private Transfers Available for Umrah Pilgrims

When you reach Saudi Arabia, there are different types of private transfers available as per your requirements. In order to pick the right option, it is important that you know about all of them. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or in a group, we provide transfer options tailored to your exact needs. Let’s check out the different options.

Airport Transfers

There is no airport in Makkah, and Umrah flights usually land at Jeddah or Madinah. Airport transfers are booked to take pilgrims from King Abdul-Aziz International Airport in Jeddah or Prince Mohammad bin Abdul-Aziz Airport in Madinah to their hotels in Makkah or Madinah.

If you haven’t booked a private Umrah transport from Jeddah to Makkah or from Madinah to Makkah, you will have to look for a taxi, negotiate prices, or wait for public transport. All of this can get quite hectic, especially if this is your first Umrah. Private transports are arranged in advance and often include meet-and-greet services for added ease.

City-to-City Transfers

During your Umrah trip, you will need to go from Makkah to Madinah or vice versa. The two cities are approximately 450 kilometres apart, and it almost takes 4 hours and 30 minutes to cover the distance by road. There are plenty of ways to travel from Makkah to Madinah, such as buses, cabs from ride-hailing apps, or shared coasters. Among them, a private car, bus or minivan is the most comfortable and convenient. For example, you can leave during the night, morning, or evening and even make a short stay to freshen up with a cup of Arabic coffee (qahwa).

Intracity Private Transfers

You will also need transport to travel within Makkah and Madinah, other than going to the central mosques in both cities. You can use this option to explore Ziyarat sites, shopping malls or any other area you want to go. Simply tell your requirements to our booking agents, and they’ll take care of everything.

VIP and Luxury Vehicles

Some of our 5-star Umrah packages come with VIP and luxury vehicles such as SUVs, executive sedans, or high-end vans. These are not ordinary cars, as they offer a wide range of amenities, including comfy seats, extra legroom, Wi-Fi, and bottled water. It is a perfect option for those that prefer luxury over budget.

Shared Private Transfers

In our Group Umrah Packages, we offer shared private transfers to the pilgrims. These include buses or coaches, depending on the number of the people in the group. These pre-arranged vehicles are only shared by a particular group, and no outsider can access them. The buses are highly comfortable and come with amenities like Wi-Fi, screens, and bottled water.

Bus or Mini-Vans

If you are going for Umrah with your extended family, our Family Umrah Packages are the perfect option for you. They include a private minivan for one family so you can travel during your Umrah journey without any issues. They also have a large boot space, which allows pilgrims to adjust more luggage compared to a sedan or SUV.

How to Book a Private Transfer for Umrah?

Now that you know about the different types of private transfer options, it is time to learn how you can book such services. Fortunately, for Umrah pilgrims, there are plenty of options to book private transport. Let’s check out all of them so you can pick the right one as per your need.

Option # 1: Through Your Umrah Travel Agency

If you have booked an all-inclusive Umrah package from Muslims Holy Travel, you are already offered on-ground transportation, or you can add it on request. The benefit of this option is reliability and bundled prices. You don’t have to pay anything extra for the transport, as all the services and amenities are included in a single price. If you are running on a tight budget, we have some amazing Cheap Umrah Packages with a private transfer option. In case you are wondering how to book Umrah transport with us, don’t worry; it is a simple process. You just have to mention it at the time of confirmation.

Option # 2: Online Booking Platforms

If you are travelling on your own, then you can book Umrah transport using online booking platforms like Uber, Careem, Bolt, Jeeny and many others. These apps are easy to use and the prices are confirmed beforehand, ensuring that the driver won’t ask for anything extra. For example, if you are looking to book a Jeddah airport to Makkah taxi, simply enter the name of the hotel or the place you want to go, and the ride will arrive at your location in a few minutes. Before starting the ride, don’t forget to check the car’s registration number, make and model with the details provided on the app.

Option # 3: Hotel Concierge or Local Operators

There is another way to book a private taxi for Umrah, and that is using your hotel’s concierge or local operators. Many leading hotels offer Makkah to Madinah private transfer and vice versa. You can request a car from them as per your convenience. However, please note that their rates are quite high compared to the two options listed above.

Other than this, there are many local rent-a-car companies that offer chauffeur-driven cars as per your budget and number of pilgrims. Both of these are great options, but they are extremely costly. You’ll end up paying 20 to 30 pounds extra for the same ride booked through ride-hailing services or a travel agency.

Documents Required for Booking Private Transfers

If you are using the services of our travel agency, you don’t need to provide anything additional, as we already have all your documents. Pilgrims that use other methods like ride-hailing apps or your hotel’s services, they may ask for your passport, visa info, and Umrah permit (if applicable). Other than this, the whole Umrah transfer booking process is quite simple and involves no technicalities.

Common Routes and Cost of Private Transfers

It is very important to understand the pricing structure before booking private Umrah transfers. If you don’t have an idea of estimated prices, you may end up paying more. We don’t want this to happen with you. As a trusted and well-reputed Umrah travel agency operating in the UK, we have always gone an extra mile in helping our Muslim brothers and sisters. Here are the different price estimates that you need to pay if you want to book private Umrah transfers.

Jeddah ↔ Makkah

The Umrah transfer cost from Jeddah’s King Abdul-Aziz International Airport to Makkah or vice versa is around SAR 225 to SAR 500 for a group of up to 6 pilgrims. For sedans, the average price is between SAR 270 and SAR 400, depending on the type of car you book. Large vehicles such as 7-seaters or minivans cost around SAR 430 to SAR 540. If you are lucky, you may find cheap Umrah transfers for SAR 350 for a bigger vehicle with additional luggage space or more seats.

Makkah ↔ Madinah

Makkah and Medina are not close like Jeddah and Makkah, so the prices are usually higher. Plus, the number of people travelling from Makkah to Madinah and vice versa is more than those coming from Jeddah to Makkah; this also inflates the price. For a group of 6 people, you will pay around SAR 500 to SAR 700. Private cars usually cost around SAR 425 for a one-way trip. Coasters and buses with larger capacities usually cost more than SAR 1000.

VIP Transfers

There are many pilgrims that want a much more relaxed and premium experience while travelling between the holy cities. This allows them to arrive fresh and relaxed at their destination and perform Umrah or pray at Masjid e Nabwi immediately after doing check-in at the hotel. Such options include top-tier sedans, SUVs, or even limousines. The prices for such services usually start around SAR 1200 and go up to SAR 1800 depending on the option you book, distance, time of the day, and the number of stops. In general, you will be paying 30% to 50% more than simple cars or SUVs. These private transfers come with various amenities like onboard refreshments, leather seats, Wi-Fi, or a driver that understands your language. VIP transfers are available for all the above-mentioned routes and for travelling inside a particular city as well.

Factors that Affect Transfer Price

The total price you pay for the transfer depends on various factors. It is important to understand these factors so you know how the prices are calculated. Below are the different factors that you need to know.

  • Distance: The distance between the destinations plays an important role in the total cost of transfer. For example, shorter trips like Jeddah to Makkah are cheap compared to the ones from Makkah to Madinah.
  • Vehicle Type: A compact sedan is the most affordable option, while mid-range SUVs or 7 seat vans cost more, and luxury sedans/SUVs are the priciest choice.
  • Seasons: Prices are highest during Ramadan, Hajj, Christmas and school holidays. Expect to pay 20% higher fares in these peak periods.
  • Group Size: The cost per person decreases when you travel in a large group. For example, you will pay around SAR 300 (Jeddah to Makkah) for a sedan with a capacity of four adults. For the same route, a coaster carrying 29 people will cost around SAR 600. This is why group Umrah packages are the most affordable and convenient option for pilgrims on a budget.

Hidden Charges or Extras to Watch Out For

If you have booked your Umrah transfers from Muslims Holy Travel, you don’t need to worry about any additional or hidden charges. The price we communicate to our customers after deciding all the amenities is final. However, some travel agencies and local transport options may include hidden charges that they reveal after you reach your destination. Here are some things to watch out for in this domain.

  • Always ask if there is any extra fee for bulky suitcases or surplus bags. Make sure you ask for luggage limits before booking.
  • Don’t forget to ask if there are any extra charges for booking a car other than standard working hours. These extras are added in the form of late-night or early-morning surcharges.
  • Discuss with your booking company if you want to make extra stops for snacks or ziyarats during your way. If you stop without prior information, you may be required to pay extra for detours.
  • Many travel agencies adjust their timing in case your flight is delayed. However, some of them may add a waiting fee in case your flight is delayed. So, don’t forget to ask this as well.

Best Pickup Locations for Umrah Private Transfers

Selecting the best pickup location for your Umrah transfer services is very important for a smooth experience. If you are going for Umrah for the first time, here are some of the most common points that are the most common options for pilgrims.

Airports

In the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, most private transfer services use the north terminal for the international flights. Once you land there, you will find a driver meeting area just past the customs counter.

The pickup point in Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah, is located just outside the Arrivals Hall. You’ll see countless drivers carrying large name placards. Look for your name, and the driver will take your luggage and place it in the car and take you to your hotel or decided destination. 

Hotels

Most hotels have a dedicated parking area where your driver will contact you. However, some smaller ones don’t have this luxury. If you are living at such a place, your driver will pick you up from a nearby point. The common pickups in Makkah include entrances on Ajyad Street, Al Masfalah, and Umm Al Qura Street.

In Medina, the pickup points are usually arranged from hotel entrances within the Markazia District, the central area around Masjid e Nabwi. The other popular streets include King Faisal Road and Amr Bin Al As Street, where most pilgrim hotels are located.

Shopping Malls & Public Landmarks

If you want on-ground transportation services to explore the city, you can arrange pickup and drop-off points at the popular public landmarks, shopping areas, or ziyarat sites. In Makkah, places like Makkah Mall, Al Aziziyah District, or Hijrah Street are the famous points. Al Noor Mall, Sultana Street, or near Quba Mosque are the most popular pick-up and drop-off locations among pilgrims.

Tips to Save Money on Private Umrah Transfers

Here are some Umrah transport tips that can help you get a better deal.

  • If you are travelling in peak seasons, make sure you book your Umrah package and transfer service at least 4-6 months in advance to avoid hiked prices.
  • Always check reviews, licences, and customer feedback before confirming your booking.
  • Don’t forget to bargain your prices. Travel agencies usually offer a discount of 50 to 100 pounds if you book an all-inclusive deal.
  • Ask for complimentary inclusions like water bottles, Wi-Fi, and snacks.
  • If you are booking a baby seat, make sure it comes at a lower price. This private transfer advice for Umrah will particularly come in handy for families with little kids or toddlers.

Alternatives to Private Transfers

The government of Saudi Arabia is committed to making Umrah a better experience for pilgrims. In the transport sections, they have introduced cheap and comfy services that act as alternatives to private transfers. The most common options are public buses and the Haramain High-Speed Train.

Public Buses (SAPTCO)

The Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) operates a budget-friendly and extensive network of intercity and intracity buses. They offer both regular and VIP buses that travel between major cities such as Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah. A standard bus usually costs SAR 25 – 35 from Jeddah to Makkah and SAR 50 – 70 for VIP services. The prices for Makkah to Madinah are SAR 75 to SAR 120, depending on the type of bus you book.

These buses are well-maintained, air-conditioned, relatively clean, offer reclining seats, and restrooms. The only issue with them is that they are slower and usually crowded during the peak season. In order to use the bus, you have to reach the designated SAPTCO terminals.

Haramain High-Speed Train

Haramain High-Speed Train, or HHR, is one of the most advanced train systems in the world. It takes you from Makkah to Madinah in 2 hours 30 minutes and from Jeddah to Makkah in just 30 to 45 minutes. The ticket prices vary depending on the time of travel and seat type (economy or business class).

Apart from Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, the train also covers King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) and has 5 stations. Two of them are located in Riyadh, while the other three cities have one each. The prices of HHR start from SAR 100 and go up to SAR 500 or higher depending on the distance between the two stops.

Wrap Up

Your search for the “best Umrah packages near me” in the UK ends right here, right now, with Muslims Holy Travel. We are one of the best Umrah tour operators in the UK and offer exceptional Umrah packages at highly affordable prices.

So, if you are looking for a cheap or luxury Umrah deal, we are right here to help you. Simply call us at the provided number or use our “Request for a Quote” section to get an instant estimate as per your requirements. You can also drop us a message on our WhatsApp, and one of our agents will get back to you in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Book a Private Transfer for Umrah with Muslims Holy Travel?

It is a simple process. You can either book your transfer while booking your Umrah package, or you can use our customer support services to confirm the details of your on-ground transportation.

What is the Price of a Private Umrah Transfer From Jeddah to Makkah?

It costs around SAR 225 to SAR 500 for a 6-seater minivan. For sedans, the price is usually between SAR 270 and SAR 400.

Can Pilgrims Pre-book Umrah Transport Service?

Yes. Travel agencies like Muslims Holy Travel offer advanced booking for Umrah transfer services. You can book the services at the time of confirming your Umrah package.

Can I Make Changes or Cancel My Private Umrah Transfer?

Yes. You can make changes to your booking schedule by speaking with our Umrah experts. For cancellation, certain terms and conditions apply, so don’t forget to check them out before moving ahead.

Do You Charge for Extra Luggage?

Standard luggage is included in your package. For extra luggage, we recommend you speak to our customer service representatives.

Are Your Private Umrah Transfers Available Round the Clock?

Yes, we can arrange a transfer from airport to hotel or vice versa at any time of the day. We offer late-night airport pickups and early morning drop-offs.