DIY Travel Adventure: Umrah Plus Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Tabuk, Al Ula, Taif, Egypt or Turkey

When my bestie Hj Toni invited me on a grand adventure next year to celebrate his wife’s retirement, I was thrilled. But then reality hit: traveling with a couple could be... well, let’s just say, a third wheel doesn't always make the tricycle ride smoother. Plus, hotel costs for a solo traveler can add up quickly. So, to save myself from the awkwardness of candlelit dinners for two (plus me) and to make it more cost-effective, I might suggest tagging along with another friend—or better yet, assembling a mini group of travel buddies.

To keep things exciting and DIY-friendly, here’s a travel plan that combines Umrah with a touch of wanderlust. Buckle up; it’s quite the itinerary!

Step 1: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Jeddah via Abu Dhabi

• Airline: Etihad Airways
• Stopover: Take advantage of Etihad’s free 2-night stay in Abu Dhabi! 

While in Abu Dhabi, why not make a day trip to Dubai? It’s just an hour and a half away by car. Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, hop over to the world’s tallest building in Dubai, and maybe even ski indoors in the desert.

Pro tip: Traveling with friends means you’ll have someone to take your photos instead of awkward selfies.

Step 2: Jeddah to Tabuk

• Flight: Flynas to Tabuk
• Stay: 1 night in Tabuk

Tabuk is a perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of Al Ula. With its ancient rock formations and historic sites, it’s a must-see.

Step 3: Tabuk to Al Ula

• Transportation: NWBus

• Stay: 2 nights in Al Ula

  Al Ula is home to breathtaking landscapes and archaeological marvels like Hegra (the Saudi Petra). The ancient tombs, dramatic rock formations, and serene desert landscapes are truly a sight to behold.

  

  Hot Air Balloon Experience:
  While Cappadocia may be the global leader in hot air balloon adventures, Al Ula offers its own magical version. Imagine floating over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, gazing at the sunrise as it lights up the desert. It’s an unforgettable way to see Al Ula’s majestic beauty from above. For those skipping Cappadocia, this is a perfect chance to add a balloon ride to your adventure.

Step 4: Al Ula to Madinah

• Transportation: NWBus

• Stay: 4 nights in Madinah

  Here, the ziarah begins in earnest. Spend time visiting the Prophet’s Mosque, Quba Mosque, and Jannatul Baqi, soaking in the spiritual tranquility of this holy city.

Step 5: Madinah to Makkah

• Transportation: Train or bus

• Stay: 5 nights in Makkah 

  Complete your Umrah in the holiest city for Muslims. The journey from Madinah to Makkah by train is smooth and scenic, perfect for reflecting on your pilgrimage.

Step 6: Makkah to Taif (Optional)

• Transportation: Bus

• Stay: 1 night in Taif

  If time allows, a quick trip to Taif offers cooler weather and beautiful mountain views. End this leg by traveling back to Jeddah for your return flight.

Optional Extended Trips

Option 1: Egypt

• Flight: Flynas - Jeddah to Cairo or Sphinx Airport
• Stay: 1 night in Sphinx, 3 nights in Cairo
  Experience the timeless beauty of the pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Nile River. Then, return to Jeddah for your flight home via Etihad Airways.

Option 2: Turkey

• Flight: Flynas - Jeddah to Istanbul
• Stay in Istanbul: 2 nights
  • Side Trip to Cappadocia: Fly to Cappadocia, stay 1 night, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon experience.
  • Ankara Stay: 1 night before flying back to Jeddah via Flynas.

Finish the journey in Istanbul by soaking up the blend of East and West before heading home with Etihad Airways.

Why This Trip Works for Me (and Maybe You!)

• Diverse Destinations: From Abu Dhabi’s skyscrapers to Al Ula’s ancient history, this itinerary offers something for everyone.
• Cost Efficiency: DIY means finding the best deals on flights (Etihad’s stopover!), transport (NWBus and Flynas), and accommodations.
• Avoiding Awkward Moments: With friends along for the ride, you avoid being the “third wheel” while still enjoying shared costs and group adventures.
• Spiritual and Fun Balance: Umrah is the centerpiece, but adding stops in Egypt or Turkey spices things up with cultural and historical exploration.
• Travel Tech: Apps like Nusuk, Trip.com, and Careem make planning, booking, and navigating easy. While en route, use your phone to recite du’as or the Quran, or plug in our 16GB USB keychain loaded with Quran recitations by Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Awsi and Sheikh Mishary Rashid (English translations included).

16GB USB keychain wth Quran recitations

Final Thoughts

This DIY Umrah Plus adventure is designed to mix spirituality, exploration, and practicality. Whether you choose Egypt, Turkey, or just stick to Saudi Arabia, the journey promises unforgettable memories and moments of spiritual growth.

So, bestie Hj Toni and friends, let’s make this trip happen!  And if anyone else wants to join, the more, the merrier—because traveling with a group is always better than third-wheeling it with a couple!

Ready for takeoff? Let’s start planning! ✈️

Disclaimer

The above itinerary is a proposed DIY (Do-It-Yourself) trip intended for informational and planning purposes only. All arrangements, including visa applications, flight bookings, bus or train tickets, and hotel accommodations, must be undertaken personally by the travelers. Travelers are advised to ensure compliance with all travel regulations and requirements.

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