Planning a budget-friendly Umrah doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. With careful planning, the majority of your Umrah expenses—especially flights—can be minimized, allowing you to experience a fulfilling spiritual journey without breaking the bank. One of the best ways to save is by taking advantage of Saudia Airlines' yearly promotions. Last year, Saudia offered up to 50% discounts on international routes for both Business and Guest Class, making it an ideal choice for Malaysian pilgrims traveling from Kuala Lumpur. Here's how you can plan your DIY Umrah for under MYR 4,000, including tips on flights, visas, accommodation, transportation, and more.
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1. Leverage Saudia Airlines’ Yearly Discounts
Every year, Saudia Airlines runs promotional campaigns offering up to 50% discounts on international routes. For example, in 2024, tickets could be booked between August 18 to 31 for travel from September 1 to November 30. This means you can save significantly on your flights, which often make up the largest portion of Umrah expenses.
- Plan and Pray for Promotions: Keep an eye on Saudia Airlines’ official website and social media channels around mid-August for announcements by subscribing to their Newsletter here . Act fast as seats sell out quickly during these offers.
- Travel During Off-Peak Times: Flights are generally cheaper outside peak Umrah seasons, such as Ramadan and school holidays.
- Guest Class Savings: Even if Business Class is discounted, Guest Class offers the most affordable way to travel comfortably while saving money.
Estimated Flight Cost: With discounts, return flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah or Madinah can cost as low as MYR 2,000 – 2,500, leaving ample room in your budget for other expenses.
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2. Visa Application: The Essentials
The Umrah visa is a critical part of your travel, and understanding the process will save you time and money.
- Visa Costs: The current Umrah visa fee is approximately MYR 600 – 700, depending on your agent. Some packages may include this fee, so compare options.
- E-Visa Option: Malaysians are eligible for a Saudi tourist e-visa, which allows for Umrah outside the Hajj season. It’s quick, cost-effective, and can be done online. The E-Visa price is SAR 395 (about MYR470)
Tip: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and your travel insurance includes coverage for medical emergencies in Saudi Arabia.
3. Affordable Accommodation Near the Holy Mosques
Staying close to Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or Masjid Nabawi in Madinah is ideal for convenience, but it can be expensive. Here’s how to save on lodging:
- Book Early: Accommodations near the mosques fill up quickly. Use platforms like Halalbooking.com or Hotellook ( A Platform for comparing hotel prices around the world) to lock in early bird deals.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Look for 3-star hotels or guesthouses within walking distance of the mosques. Prices can range from MYR 100 – 200 per night depending on the season.
- Room Sharing: Traveling solo? Consider sharing a room with fellow pilgrims to split costs.
Estimated Cost for 10 Nights (Quadruple room): MYR 1,600 – 2,500
Estimated Cost person : MYR 400 – 625
4. Getting Around: Transportation Tips
Efficient transportation planning can help you save significantly during your trip:
- Airport Transfers: Opt for shared shuttles or ride-hailing apps like Careem for affordable airport transfers. This is a much better alternative than overpriced taxis.
- Inter-City Travel:
- Jeddah to Madinah: If you’re flying into Jeddah and plan to visit Madinah first, use the Northwest Bus service. It’s affordable, costing around SAR 68.00 (MYR 80), and will drop you at the Al Madinah Jabal Ohud station.
- Madinah to Makkah: From Madinah, take the Haramain Express Train, a high-speed, comfortable, and efficient service. Tickets cost around SAR 224.00 (MYR 270) one way.
- Makkah to Jeddah: To return to Jeddah from Makkah, use the Northwest Bus again for just SAR 30.00 (MYR 36).
Estimated Cost : MYR 386
- Local Transfers Using Careem:
- From Jabal Ohud Bus Station to your hotel in Madinah: SAR 30.00
- From your hotel in Madinah to the train station: SAR 30.00
- From Makkah Train Station to your hotel in Makkah: SAR 30.00
- From your hotel in Makkah to the Northwest Bus station: SAR 30.00
- The approximate total cost for local transfers using Careem is SAR 120.00 (MYR 144) or SAR 30.00 (MYR 36) per person per trip.
Total Estimated Cost :MYR 422
By combining buses, trains, and ride-hailing services like Careem, you can enjoy a smooth and cost-effective journey while keeping your expenses well within budget.
- Local Travel: Most accommodations near the mosques eliminate the need for daily transport.
Tip: Group your Ziarah (visits to religious sites) into one day and hire a guide or shared transport for a cost-effective trip.
5. Budgeting for Food
Food in Saudi Arabia can range from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here’s how to keep costs down:
- Self-Catering: Book accommodations with a kitchenette to prepare simple meals. Grocery stores like Bin Dawood and Albaik outlets are affordable options for staples and halal fast food.
- Budget Meals: Meals at local eateries cost around MYR 30 – 50 per person. Stick to budget-friendly restaurants near the mosque.
- Free Zamzam Water: Stay hydrated by refilling your bottle with Zamzam water, available for free at the mosques.
Estimated Food Cost for 10 Days: MYR 300 – 500
6. Miscellaneous Tips for a Hassle-Free DIY Umrah
- Currency Exchange: Convert MYR to Saudi Riyals (SAR) at favorable rates before departure. Avoid exchanging money at airports where rates are higher.
- Apps for Convenience: Download essential apps like Nusuk, Careem (transport), and Umrah-related apps for guidance.
- Spiritual Preparation: Spend time preparing mentally and spiritually for your journey. Familiarize yourself with the rituals of Umrah to make the most of your experience.
Sample Budget Breakdown (DIY Umrah for Under MYR 4,000)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (MYR) |
| Return Flights | 2,000 – 2,500 |
| Visa Fee | 470 |
| Accommodation | 400 – 625 |
| Food | 300 – 500 |
| Transportation | 400 – 500 |
| Misc (Vaccination, Travel Insurance) | 300 - 500 |
| Total | 3,870 – 5,095 |
Conclusion
A DIY Umrah for less than MYR 4,000 is not just possible—it’s practical with the right planning and discipline. By taking advantage of Saudia Airlines’ yearly discounts, carefully budgeting for essentials like accommodation and transportation, and embracing a thrifty approach to food and travel, you can embark on this spiritual journey without financial stress.
Start planning early, stay vigilant for Saudia’s promotions, and don’t forget to pray for ease and blessings on your journey. With proper preparation, your Umrah can be both spiritually rewarding and financially manageable.
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