Umrah Plus:
Explore Hainan, Chengdu & Dubai with Trip.com from MYR5,350.99
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,
What if your blessed journey for Umrah could also become a gateway to exploring new lands and cultures? A thoughtful approach to planning, leveraging current trends in air travel, can transform this spiritual pilgrimage into a broader "Umrah Plus" experience—enriching your adventure without compromising on its sacred purpose.
Recent shifts in the global aviation industry have created unique opportunities. By understanding these trends and using strategic tools like Trip . com , you can craft an itinerary that includes meaningful stopovers in places like Hainan, Chengdu, or Dubai, all while potentially keeping your total budget in check—with a complete DIY Umrah package potentially starting from an estimated MYR 5,350.99.
This guide humbly explores how these "Plus" options might fit into your spiritual journey, always remembering that the ultimate goal is a focused and peaceful Umrah.
Understanding the Shift: Why Chinese Airlines Are Offering Competitive Fares
A combination of factors has made Chinese airlines a noteworthy option for international travelers, including those headed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
After the pandemic, China's aviation market experienced a significant oversupply of seats coupled with fierce competition. This challenging environment, as reported by Reuters (on 8 August 2025) , meant that major Chinese airlines struggled to return to profitability in the first half of 2025.
For travelers, this dynamic translated into lower fares. Notably:
- Domestic airfares in China were reported to be 10.6% below 2019 levels.
- Outbound international airfares from China were 39% lower year-on-year between January and September.
For Umrah travelers, this translates to lower overall trip costs – especially when booking via platforms like Trip . com that often secure bulk deals or exclusive discounts.
Option 1: The Serene Hainan Route (KUL-HAK-JED)
A search on a platform like Trip . com can reveal interesting routing options. For example, a trip from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Jeddah (JED) in November 2025 via Haikou (HAK) on Hainan Airlines was listed for approximately MYR 2,347 (about ~$500 USD) for a round-trip economy ticket. This fare included a checked baggage allowance (23kg), carry-on baggage, and meals.
Route Details:
- KUL → Haikou → JED
- Return JED → Haikou → KUL
- Transit in Haikou (Outbound: 2h 55m | Return: 11h 30m) – baggage re-check required
The Potential Benefits:
- Cost Savings: This specific fare could represent a significant saving compared to more direct routes or flights on Middle Eastern carriers.
- All-Inclusive Fare: Having checked luggage and meals included provides budget certainty.
- Bonus Glimpse of Hainan: The long layovers (outbound 2h55m; return 11h30m) offer a chance to briefly step out and experience a new culture. Hainan Island is known for its tropical beaches, Chinese culture, and delicious seafood.
Important Considerations:
- Layover Logistics: This particular itinerary requires collecting and re-checking baggage during both transfers in Haikou. This takes time and requires careful planning.
- Visa Requirements: Travelers must check the latest visa regulations for China. Transit rules can change, and some nationalities may qualify for a temporary visa-free transit for stays less than 24 or 144 hours if they meet specific conditions. Always verify this independently before booking.
- Time vs. Savings: The total travel time is long. This is a trade-off between financial savings and personal comfort.
New Package Price
Based on "Your Journey, Your Way: 11 Nights DIY Umrah for RM5,669.99", the new package price via Hainan Airlines would be RM5,350.99, down from the original RM5,669.99.
Option 2: The Chengdu & Dubai Route (A More Complex but Rich Itinerary)
Another strategic approach involves booking separate tickets to create a longer, more exploratory journey. This requires more planning but can offer different rewards.
Leg 1: KUL to DXB via Chengdu (TFU)
- An example search for November 2025 on Sichuan Airlines showed a fare of MYR 1,818 for a round-trip from Kuala Lumpur to Dubai, with a long layover in Chengdu. This fare included baggage and meals, and importantly, did not require re-checking bags during the Chengdu layover.
- Chengdu's Bonus: A long layover here could be a chance to see the city's famous giant pandas, a truly special experience.
Leg 2: DXB to JED (and back)
- A separate round-trip ticket from Dubai to Jeddah on a budget carrier like flynas could cost approximately MYR794. Be aware that such fares often exclude checked baggage and meals.
- Dubai's Bonus: This routing builds in time to explore a small part of this dynamic global city.
Route Details:
- KUL → Chengdu → Dubai → JED
- Return: JED → Dubai → Chengdu → KUL
- Bonus layovers in Chengdu (home of the Giant Panda) and Dubai (iconic skyline, shopping, desert experiences).
The Potential Benefits:
- Two Cultural Experiences: This route offers glimpses of both Chengdu, China, and Dubai, UAE.
- Potential for Savings: While the total airfare (MYR 2,612) might be similar to other options, the value lies in the added experiences.
Important Considerations:
- Booking Complexity: This involves managing two separate airline bookings. If your first flight is delayed and you miss your second flight, the airlines are not responsible.
- Baggage Allowance: The Gulf segment may have strict (and expensive) baggage rules. Packing light or shipping items ahead might be necessary.
- Visa Requirements: This plan requires checking visa rules for both China (for the Chengdu layover) and the United Arab Emirates (for the Dubai stopover). Regulations vary greatly by passport holder.
New Package Price
Based on "Your Journey, Your Way: 11 Nights DIY Umrah for RM5,669.99 ", the new package price via Chengdu & Dubai route above, would be RM 5,615.99 (before hotel adjustments), down from the original RM 5,669.99.
Bonus Experience: Hainan, Chengdu & Dubai Mini-Travel Guide
Hainan – China’s Tropical Gateway
If your itinerary includes a long layover in Haikou, take advantage of the opportunity to explore Hainan, often called “China’s Hawaii.”
- Must-See: Holiday Beach for ocean views, Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark for nature lovers, and Qilou Old Street for historic charm.
- Cuisine: Sample fresh seafood, coconut desserts, and Wenchang chicken rice.
- Travel Tip: Many travelers enjoy visa-free entry for short visits (confirm your eligibility before departure).
Chengdu – The City of Pandas
Chengdu offers a unique cultural and wildlife experience during transit.
- Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: See China’s most famous furry residents in a world-class conservation center.
- Culture & Cuisine: Explore traditional teahouses, vibrant street food, and try Sichuan hotpot for a spicy adventure.
- Extra Charm: Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street showcase Chengdu’s rich history.
Dubai – The City of Wonders
If your route includes a stopover in Dubai, even a short stay offers plenty to see.
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah.
- Cultural Gems: Wander through Al Fahidi Historical District and experience a desert safari if time permits.
- Shopping & Souvenirs: Dubai is a tax-free shopping paradise, perfect for gold, perfumes, and dates.
A Humble Note on Using Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Trip.com
Platforms like Trip . com can be powerful tools for finding these complex, multi-city fares that might be difficult to piece together elsewhere. They aggregate options from numerous airlines, including Chinese carriers looking to fill seats.
Many OTAs also offer optional "flexibility" packages for an additional fee (e.g., MYR 138-178 in the examples above). These can provide peace of mind with benefits like free cancellation or no change fees, which can be valuable for a journey planned far in advance.
Why Trip.com Is Worth Considering
- Global Travel Platform: Part of Trip.com Group (NASDAQ: TCOM), one of the world’s largest travel service providers.
- Trusted & Regulated: Operates under international travel compliance and customer protection policies.
- Competitive Pricing: Often lower than direct airline rates due to bulk seat allocations.
- Extra Features: Flexible booking options, free cancellation (with Air Flexibility), and 24/7 priority support.
Beyond the Flight: Integrating Savings into Your Overall Umrah Budget
The significant savings on airfare—perhaps hundreds of dollars—can be reallocated within your overall pilgrimage budget. This could allow for:
- A hotel closer to the Haram.
- A longer stay in Madinah.
- The ability to give more in charity during your journey.
- Covering the cost of transportation and meals during your bonus layover explorations.
A Final Thought: Intentionality is Key
While saving money and seeing new places are wonderful benefits, the core of your journey remains your Umrah. Choosing a more complex route should be a conscious decision that aligns with your physical energy, time constraints, and spiritual goals.
A humble checklist before you book:
- Visa Status: Have you definitively confirmed the visa/transit requirements for every country you will set foot in?
- Layover Realities: Are you comfortable with long travel days and navigating foreign airports?
- Travel Insurance: Does your policy cover missed connections due to delays on separately booked tickets?
- Spiritual Focus: Will this itinerary enhance or detract from your primary purpose?
- Explore :
May your planning be blessed, your travels be safe, and your pilgrimage be accepted. The effort you put into planning a journey that is both financially wise and spiritually fulfilling is itself an act of devotion.
Wasalaamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Disclaimer: Flight prices, airline routes, baggage policies, and visa regulations are highly dynamic and subject to change at any time. The examples provided were based on a specific search date and are for illustrative purposes only. You must conduct your own thorough research and verify all details directly with airlines and official government immigration websites before booking any travel.
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