• 15 May, 26
• by Muslims Holy Travel

Umrah and Turkey Combo Package: Spirituality Meets Ottoman Heritage

Many people across the world are opting for the combo travel deals that allow them to combine a spiritual experience with a fun and relaxing trip. If you are also someone who is planning to book Umrah and Turkey holiday packages, this write-up is going to predict some highlights of your amazing journey. Pilgrims can perform Umrah in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, followed by an amazing tour to Turkey, where they can come across a perfect mix of Islamic heritage sites and Ottoman history. Stay in touch with us till the end to learn how booking a reliable Umrah and Turkey combo package can help you take advantage of a balanced itinerary with religious and leisure experiences.

Designing an Effective Travel Route

One of the biggest benefits of booking an Umrah and Turkey combo package is that you get a well-designed travel route that makes your journey stress-free. You can either opt for an Umrah first and a tour to Turkey later or vice versa. Most of the pilgrims go for the former option, for which the UK pilgrims need to take a flight from their nearest airport. Pilgrims land in Jeddah or Madinah, after which they complete the rituals of tawaf and sa’i in the House of Allah Almighty.

You are also save yourself from the worry of taking an onward flight to Turkey. The common transit routes may include the Gulf Countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Oman, etc. Your tour ends after taking a departure flight from Turkey to your home country.

Performing Umrah in the Holy Cities

Your spiritual journey takes a dreamy turn when you enter the state of Ihram before stepping into the Territory of Makkah. This way, you are mentally and physically ready to circumambulate the holy Kaaba and walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa to fulfil the process of sa’i. Pilgrims then get out of the state of Ihram by cutting their hair, which is the last step, called Halq or Taqsir. The reason why most of the pilgrims wish to complete the rituals of Umrah before commencing their leisure travel is so that they can freely immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Turkey without worrying about the Umrah logistics.

Stay in Makkah and Madinah

Let us now talk a bit about what your stay looks like in the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah. Booking the reliable combo packages by Muslims Holy Travel allows you to reside in hotels close to the key Islamic sites such as Masjid al Haram and Masjid an Nabawi. Being within walking distance of the Haram allows you to reach the House of Allah Almighty after just walking a few steps. The best part is that you can thus immerse yourself in the rituals immediately without worrying about travel fatigue. Keep in mind that the lodging options range from budget-friendly to luxury or premium. What you need to do is choose the package which aligns with your comfort demands and budget needs. The best part is that most of the combo packages provided by well-known agencies, such as Muslims Holy Travel, also provide expert-guided ziyarah tours, which ultimately elevate your spiritual journey.

Transition from Umrah to Turkey

The second and fun part of your journey starts right after taking a flight from Saudi Arabia to Turkey, which will most probably land at the Istanbul airport. Whether you are travelling with your family, friends, or better half, you can always take advantage of the smooth transfer arrangements. Moreover, a flexible travel schedule makes it easy for you to manage your chores. There are options for direct or connecting flights, which make it easy for you to choose depending on your bank balance and travel interests. A point worth mentioning here is that you get some time to unwind before starting your Turkey journey, so you can make the most out of your combo journey.

Exploring Ottoman Heritage in Istanbul

Exploring the incredible heritage in Istanbul is a dream come true for the curious minds and, particularly, history freaks. Let us take a look at some of the prominent sites in Turkey, visiting which takes your journey to the next level.

Hagia Sophia

Those who love to explore ancient architecture should definitely head towards the Hagia Sophia. This mosque literally stuns the spectator as it reflects the amazing Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Not only this, but this historic monument is a representation of the religious and cultural transformation of Istanbul. Make sure to take a camera with you to capture the beautiful mosaics, tall domes, and Islamic calligraphy carved on the walls.

Blue Mosque

As the name suggests, the Blue mosque is known all over the world for its unique interior, which is made of blue Iznik tiles. This is an active mosque that strongly reflects the Ottoman era through the elements used in its design. This place is best for those who wish to come across a grand-scale Ottoman religious architecture with a spiritual ambience.

Topkapi Palace

What if I tell you that there is a place in Turkey that used to be a home to the Ottoman sultans for more than 400 years? Yes, that’s right! Tourists can explore it by heading towards the Topkapi Palace. You can learn a lot through the relics, imperial treasury, and royal chambers it holds. On top of that, you can also gain insights into the Ottoman court system and governance operation in the old times.

Grand Bazaar

Do not miss including the Grand Bazaar in the list of your must-visit places in Turkey. Not only is this a shopping hub but it also strongly displays the Ottoman trade culture and craftsmanship. However, this spot is more often known for high-quality carpets, jewellery and even spices. It is highly recommended to buy some souvenirs from here to keep a good memory of this combo journey.

Bosphorus Strait Cruise

Opting for a Bosphorus Strait cruise allows you to witness a pristine waterway which divides Asia and Europe. There is an opportunity to get the mesmerising views of the Ottoman palaces, mosques and oceanfront mansions. Not only this, but you can also enjoy fine dining and can relish a soothing sunset with the love of your life.

High-end Lodging in Turkey

Another key feature of an Umrah and Turkey combo package is that it offers an opportunity to stay in the finest 3, 4 or 5-star hotels not only in Saudi Arabia, but also in Turkey. The best part is that you can stay in hotels usually centrally located in the major cities. Moreover, you can take advantage of the high-end facilities such as a private balcony and reliable room service. Guests can also enjoy easy access to famous attractions in the region. Food buffs can savour a bunch of delicious meals in an on-site restaurant. They are thus saved from travelling far from their residence.

Budget and Inclusions of Your Combo Package

If we talk about the inclusions of your respective package, most of the Umrah deals offer the amenity of flights with your desired airfare, hotels at both destinations, and transfers throughout your journey. Furthermore, ziyarah tours in KSA make it possible to explore different religious sites such as the Masjid al-Jin and Mount Uhud within the scheduled tenure. The same is the case for the guided tours in Turkey, which let you know about the significance of the key sites in the country. If we talk about meals, they largely depends on the type of package you are going with. Keep in mind that the cost of your package varies with the amenities included in it.

Visa and Travel Requirements

Figuring out your travel requirements several months before your departure is a smart move. Those who book an Umrah and Turkey combo package should have an Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia and a Turkish visa or e-visa, depending on their nationality. You need to have a passport with at least 6 months of validity and a vaccination certificate for meningococcal meningitis, which is mandatory for entry into Saudi Arabia. Apart from that, make sure that the travel and hotel bookings are confirmed and it is suggested to have your insurance documents to avoid any unforeseen financial loss.

Tips for a Smooth Combo Journey

• The following are some of the tips which are capable of improving your dual-destination trip to a significant extent!
• We recommend completing your Umrah journey before commencing your Turkey tour. This is because prioritising the holy rituals of the Sunnah over the fun part of your itinerary provides mental satisfaction and you feel at peace.
• A golden piece of advice is that one should book their package well in advance. This is a great way of grabbing quality amenities at a reasonable price.
• There should be sufficient space in your baggage for essential travel documents, so that you can take them out conveniently in case of need.
• Taking rest between travelling to different destinations and during the sacred rituals is crucial for keeping your body and mind recharged.
• Respect local customs of your intended place of travel and follow the guidelines of the experts for a truly memorable and hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Wrapping it up, Umrah and Turkey combo package offers a chance to indulge in a unique experience, filled with spiritual fulfilment and cultural enrichment. Muslims get a chance to perform the sacred rituals of the sunnah of Umrah in the most sacred city on this planet. Not only that, but this pilgrimage is followed by a trip to Turkey. Therefore, we can say that these travel deals open doors to experiencing a unique combination of faith and heritage.

What are you waiting for? Take the right step now by booking your favourite Umrah and Turkey combo package with Muslims Holy Travel to relish a well-organised and memorable journey to Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1-    What is included in an Umrah and Turkey combo package?

Some of the inclusions of your Umrah and Turkey combo package are visa processing, flights and accommodation in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Pilgrims can also take advantage of ground transport in both countries, which is super beneficial for kids and the elderly. Tourists can reside in hotels close to the famous attractions in Istanbul, making city tours easier than ever.

2-    How long does an Umrah and Turkey combo trip usually last?

This combo trip generally takes around 10 to 14 days in total. Most of the pilgrims prefer to spend about 5 to 7 days in the holy cities for Umrah and sightseeing. After that, you travel to Turkey and spend around 4 to 6 days there. You can choose a duration of your stay in both countries, depending on your choice and budget. Travellers can pick what suits them best.

3-    Is Turkey a good destination to visit after performing Umrah?

Yes, it is definitely a great idea. Pilgrims may feel tired after performing the hectic rituals, so Turkey is a good place to unwind. There are many Islamic sites and ancient mosques, which you can visit with your near and dear ones.  Moreover, you can also come across stunning views, mountains, and cities. It gives you a perfect blend of learning and adventure, resulting in a memorable trip.

4-    Do I need separate visas for Saudi Arabia and Turkey?

Yes, this is true. You need two different visas. A Saudi Arabia visa is required to successfully perform the rituals of Sunnah. For Turkey, you need to apply for a separate visa or an e-visa. However, you should carefully study the requirements beforehand to choose the accurate type of visa. It is always better to check before booking to avoid any future hurdles.

5-    Which cities in Turkey are usually included in the package?

Most travel deals include Istanbul, which is not only the main city but also has many popular spots. A few packages also include Bursa and Cappadocia. These cities are known for their breathtaking beauty and heritage. In some combo packages, you can also add more cities to expand your exploration.

6-    Are guided tours provided in Turkey?

Yes, guided tours are included most of the time. An expert or multilingual guide takes you to different spots like mosques, markets, and key spots. The guides also shed light on the significant events related to the place you are visiting. Everything is planned in advance by your travel agency, so you can just enjoy your trip without any anxiety.

7-    Can families book Umrah and Turkey combo packages together?

Yes, these combo packages are increasing in popularity among families. From the start to the end of the journey, it is ensured that those coming with their loved ones have a comfortable stay in Saudi Arabia and Turkey. You can choose rooms and plans that suit your family size. Not only this, but parents can also request interconnected rooms to keep an eye on their children. 24-hour security in hotels also ensures optimum safety and comfort.

8-    What is the best time to book an Umrah and Turkey combo package?

It is always a smart move to book in advance. Many Muslims pre-book this dual-destination trip for Ramadan and school holidays, because as time advances, costs can go up and places fill quickly. If you book early, you can get better prices and wider choices. Last but not least, it also gives you peace of mind before your departure.