DIY Umrah: Is It For You? (The Theory)

Cycling on a Careem bike around the vicinity of Masjid Nabawi.

THE INTENTION

For someone who has spent many years helping my travel agency clients promote their Umrah packages, I’ve always wondered: What would it feel like to embark on that sacred journey myself?

So when the time came, I asked myself: Could I actually plan my own Umrah? I mean, we’ve planned so many trips independently as a family—could this really be any different? I started asking around, “Would you ever embark on your first Umrah as a DIY trip?” The response? A resounding no.

IT’S NOT FOR EVERYONE.

Everyone chimed in with the same advice: “Bella, your first Umrah? You better go with an agent and a mutawif (guide).”

But…I couldn’t help but wonder…why?

“You need a Mutawif. Someone to guide you…show you around..”

“Hmm..alright.”

When it came to having a mutawif, I completely understood the importance. The guidance of someone knowledgeable in the rituals is invaluable, especially when you consider the severity of performing the rites incorrectly. Believe me. Nobody wants to pay dum (a compensation or penalty, more on this soon). This wasn’t just another trip—this was a pilgrimage. And a mutawif’s role is to ensure that every step of your Umrah is completed correctly and accepted by Allah. So I get it.  Having a Mutawif to guide you during Umrah was undeniably crucial. This role is invaluable in ensuring that every step, every ritual, is performed correctly. I was truly blessed to have Ustaz Hasan Saifouridzal with us during my first Umrah. Without his guidance, I would have been overwhelmed by the many details and intricacies involved. He made sure we understood the requirements and carried them out properly, providing not just knowledge but also reassurance throughout the journey.

But here’s the thing—the question isn’t whether a Mutawif is necessary. For many, especially first-timers, having a guide is highly recommended and, in some cases, essential. The real question we’re exploring is this: Is DIY Umrah possible? Can you independently plan, organize, and execute your pilgrimage without relying on the structure of a traditional package tour?The idea of forgoing traditional travel packages still lingered in my mind. (There has to be another way…I’ve seen this done…there has to be another way.)

You see, I had spent years managing agencies and was familiar with their packages like the back of my hand. Is it possible to create an itinerary to my specific needs and allowed me to have full control—while managing all the logistics independently? And that was it. That was the a-ha moment.

DIY Umrah meant full, independent control. And to be quite honest it’s quite a paradgim shift to make. While we may still be a small group, there’s no denying that the number of independent travelers like us is growing. It’s a burgeoning community of individuals who crave something different when it comes to their travels—something beyond the one-size-fits-all approach.

BUT WHAT DOES IT REALLY TAKE?

To be honest, embarking on a DIY Umrah is not just about changing how you approach the pilgrimage; it’s a complete mindset shift. It requires courage (literally) and also the ability to have brave conversations with the people around you—family, friends, and even fellow travelers—who may or may not be open to the idea.

The concept of DIY Umrah challenges the traditional norms many of us are used to also. It’s unconventional, and for some, it feels risky or even unnecessary. The thought of planning everything yourself, from logistics to your Umrah itself, can be overwhelming for many, and you might face skepticism or outright resistance. But here’s the thing: those conversations, though difficult, are to me, very important. They help you articulate your reasons, clarify your intentions, and—most importantly—give you the chance to thoughtfully weigh both perspectives.

After all, taking on a DIY Umrah isn’t just about saving money or having flexibility; it’s about stepping into a journey with full awareness and responsibility for every aspect of it.

With that in mind, Alhamdulillah, I am incredibly blessed to share that my very first Umrah in 2022 was completely DIY—and not only that, I successfully repeated the experience in 2024 this time with just Siraj and I. Both journeys were special in their own way, but what truly stood out was the sense of accomplishment (and storytelling that came out of this) that came from planning every aspect myself. (Yes! Believe me when I say, I have quite a knack for this.) From choosing flights and accommodations to the best places for food and deals around Haram, I have them all for you.

This blog has been on my checklist for the longest time, and I’m so excited to finally bring it to life. There’s so much I want to share—far more than any Instagram story could ever capture. My intention for writing this is simple: to empower and inspire you. I want to help as many readers as possible feel confident about the idea of doing Umrah on their own. And most importantly, I want to answer the one burning question that many ask when considering this path: Is DIY Umrah right for me?

Let’s dive in together, and I’ll walk you through the possibilities, challenges, and immense rewards of taking this sacred journey into your own hands. Having researched this extensively and witnessed others embark on this path, I’d like to share my thoughts to help you decide.

What Does DIY Umrah Entail?

“DIY Umrah” means planning the entire pilgrimage independently without relying on an agency. It involves just the follow standard things:

1. Booking Flights: Choosing your departure and return dates, often tying them to affordable fares or personal schedules.

2. Arranging Accommodation: Finding hotels near the Haram in Makkah and Madinah, considering your budget and comfort level.

3. Handling Transport: Navigating between cities, be it by train, taxi, or rental car (this was so fun guys).

4. Visa Application: Coordinating the e-Visa process, ensuring all documentation meets Saudi requirements (easy peasy, lemon squeezy).

While this approach offers flexibility and control, it also demands diligence and time. So, Insya Allah, this blog serves as a helpful starting point, with many more articles I have in store for all of you in the coming weeks. From planning tips to navigating logistics, and even tackling the spiritual aspects of Umrah as a female (Yes. This deserves a blog in itself), my goal is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on this sacred journey—whether you choose to go DIY or not. (Don’t forget to leave me your comments!)

Pros of DIY Umrah

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Agencies often bundle premium services that may not suit everyone’s budget. A significant portion of these costs can usually be attributed to land transportation between cities—those big, air-conditioned tour buses that, let’s face it, are not everyone’s vibe. To be honest, the last time I was on a tour bus was 13 years ago on a group trip to South Korea, and that was both my first and last experience of traveling with strangers in a “rombongan” setup. It’s just not for me anymore, guys.

With DIY Umrah, you gain the ability to control your expenses by tailoring your accommodations and transportation choices to match your budget and preferences. BUT WAIT. Just because you’re booking everything yourself doesn’t mean DIY Umrah will always be cheaper. What you need to understand is that cost-effectiveness can look different for everyone. For example, maybe you’d prefer skipping the hotel’s set meals (breakfast, lunch…and dinner.. I mean, I knew I did not need this) in favor of a shawarma breakfast from the local café down the street. Do that for seven days, and you’ve definitely saved some money.

Or perhaps you don’t mind staying in a slightly further hotel, where a 12-minute walk to Door 27 of the women’s section in Masjid Nabawi becomes part of your daily routine. Again, it’s all about what works for you. Cost-effectiveness is relative—it’s not just about finding the cheapest option but finding what fits your comfort level and expectations.

Ultimately, while DIY Umrah can often be more cost-effective than agency packages, it’s less about the numbers and more about how you define value for yourself. Are you okay with making small sacrifices for a personalized experience, or do you prioritize convenience over cost? The answer is entirely up to you.

2. Flexibility

With DIY Umrah, you set the pace. You! Whether you want to spend a quiet week in Makkah or extend your stay in Madinah, there are no fixed itineraries dictating your experience—and to me, this is a BIG WIN.

Most agencies offer Umrah packages that fall into two categories: Awal Makkah or Awal Madinah. This means you either perform Umrah directly after landing at the airport or ease into your pilgrimage by first visiting the serene city of Madinah to prepare yourself mentally and spiritually. Either way, the packages are typically locked into a 10 day timeframe. Now, what about Ziyarah? Most agencies will include it, sometimes even offering trips to places like Taif in Makkah. But here’s the catch—Ziyarah is almost always limited to a specific schedule. As someone who loves history, this can be quite the downer. If I’m making Ziyarah, I don’t want to rush from one landmark to another. No. No. No. I want to truly experience these sacred places—to immerse myself in our steeped history, take my time to reflect, and really connect with the stories they hold. With DIY Umrah, I get to do exactly that. I can choose when, where, and for how long I want to visit these historical sites, giving me the freedom to savor every moment at my own pace and in my own mental headspace. For me, this flexibility is absolutely priceless and the reason why I am an advocate for DIY Umrah.

3. Tailored Experiences for Ziyarah

As a history enthusiast, this aspect was incredibly important to me. After years of managing travel agencies and reviewing their itineraries, one thing stood out—most lacked comprehensive Ziyarah options. The opportunity to visit and truly immerse myself in our Islamic heritage sites often seemed overlooked or very, very limited.

For my own Umrah, I wanted something different. I envisioned complete freedom to explore these sacred landmarks, whether on foot or by car (as mentioned, this was so fun guys), delving deeper into our history. Ziyarah wasn’t just a nice addition to my journey—it was a top priority on my bucket list. Planning a DIY Umrah gave me the flexibility to ensure these visits were a core part of my experience.

So, if you’re the kind of person who would rather skip the rigidity of someone handing you a pre-set checklist of places to visit—and, let’s be honest, if you decide on the day itself that you’re feeling too tired to join the tour group and would rather recharge in your hotel room—this is exactly why DIY Umrah is such a game-changer.

With DIY Umrah, the schedule is entirely yours to create. You have the freedom to decide when, where, and how you visit historical sites or landmarks, and you can adjust your plans as you go. There’s no pressure to stick to someone else’s timetable, no rushing through places that deserve time for reflection, and no obligation to follow a group’s pace.

It’s this flexibility that makes the experience so personal and rewarding. Whether you want to explore the rich history of Islamic heritage sites or simply take a quiet day to rest and reflect, DIY Umrah gives you the control to tailor your journey to your energy, priorities, and spiritual needs. Did I tell you we added 2 more nights in Jeddah? Wait for that story guys!

Challenges of DIY Umrah

While the idea of planning your own Umrah is exciting and empowering, it’s important to recognize the challenges that come with taking on this responsibility especially if you are traveling with seniors and babies. I want to be very honest with my readers especially since I know the influence of my Instagram stories and how that can easily sway you to only see the good stuff. The planning for your DIY Umrah and the unique needs of each and every family member can add another layer of complexity to an already detailed planning process. DIY Umrah isn’t for everyone, and it requires preparation, adaptability, and patience. If you feel this is for you, read on!

Some of the key challenges you might face:

1. Planning Fatigue

From coordinating travel to securing accommodations, the planning process can feel overwhelming, especially for first-timers who may not understand the terrains of Saudi Arabia. Hello, very big country…hello, very big cities. Saudi Arabia isn’t just a country; it’s vast, with sprawling cities and a transportation system that can be confusing to navigate if you’re unfamiliar with it.

For example, deciding how to travel between Makkah and Madinah—should you take the Haramain train, a private car, or a bus?—can require hours of research and decision-making. Add in time zones, prayer schedules, and meal arrangements, and the logistics can leave you mentally drained before you even begin the journey. While planning gives you control, it also demands time, patience, and the ability to adapt when things don’t go as planned.

While I personally enjoy planning every detail down to the tee, I fully acknowledge that this level of involvement isn’t for everyone. The process can be time-consuming, requiring not just organization but also a willingness to dive deep into research and problem-solving. If the thought of coordinating flights, accommodations, transportation, and everything in between feels overwhelming, DIY Umrah might not be the best fit. And that’s perfectly okay! The beauty of this journey lies in choosing an approach that aligns with your needs, comfort level, and personal circumstances.

2. Unfamiliar Logistics

Language barriers and navigating local customs can pose significant challenges, especially if you’ve never traveled to Saudi Arabia before. I vividly remember being so anxious about the Visas alone. Questions like, Do I get to bring Zam Zam water home on a tourist Visa? Or is an Umrah Visa a better option? What about booking for Raudah—how does that even work? These logistical concerns felt overwhelming and intimidating, especially as a first-timer.

But here’s the thing: these challenges, while daunting at first, are definitely manageable with enough preparation. With research, a bit of patience, and the help of today’s resources—seriously, the amount of TikToks you can find on Umrah prep is Masha ALLAH!—you can arm yourself with all the knowledge you need to navigate these terrains confidently. Plus, there’s no shortage of people you can email or connect with to answer your questions.

To be honest, I used to hear so many stories about Saudi Arabia. Tales of how reclusive, tough, or even rude the society could be. But I quickly realized these were just misconceptions. The more time I spent in the cities, the more I saw how incredibly accommodating and kind the people truly are.

And about language? Believe it or not, many merchants around the Haram area speak fluent Bahasa Indonesia—so much so that I found myself laughing at how all the Arabic lessons I’ve taken seemed completely unnecessary in those moments! But, once you step outside the Haram and into the broader cityscape, you quickly realize how essential basic Arabic can be. Trust me, it’s worth learning a few key phrases to make your journey smoother.

More on the language tips later, but let me just say this: with the right preparation and an open mind, these initial fears and logistical hurdles become part of the adventure. They’re challenges you overcome, not roadblocks that hold you back.

3. Solo Accountability

One of the biggest challenges of DIY Umrah is the potential lack of a safety net. Unlike agency-led trips, where there’s a team to assist you in case of any hiccups, you’re entirely responsible for resolving any issues—whether it’s a missed booking, a delayed flight, or something more serious.

The first time I performed my Umrah, I traveled with seniors—my Baba and Amijaan (father- and mother-in-law)—and let me tell you, the responsibility was immense. My biggest concern was, What if someone falls ill? Where would we go? How would we handle it?

When traveling between cities like Makkah and Madinah, these are the kinds of logistics you absolutely cannot overlook. Understanding where the nearest hospitals are, knowing what kind of medical facilities are available, and being clear about the coverage your travel insurance provides are not just helpful—they’re crucial.

Emergencies can happen anywhere, and when you’re traveling with seniors or children, you need to be extra prepared. A DIY Umrah requires you to think ahead, plan for contingencies, and ensure you have the resources to handle unexpected situations. This level of accountability isn’t for everyone, but if you’re ready to take it on, it’s also incredibly empowering to know you’ve got it all covered.

So, Who is DIY Umrah For?

If you are organized, tech-savvy, and willing to invest time in researching, DIY Umrah can be an empowering experience. It’s ideal for:

• Budget-Conscious Travelers: If affordability is key, DIY allows for financial control. You decide which airline, hotel, transportation is suitable for you.

• Experienced Travelers: If you’ve traveled independently in the past, the logistics may feel manageable.

• Personalized Seekers: If you wish to craft a deeply personal journey, DIY is a perfect fit.

However, if you value convenience, peace of mind, or prefer guidance, an agency-led package might be a better option.

A Journey of the Heart

At its core, Umrah is not just about logistics—it’s about intention (niyyah). Whether you choose DIY or an agency, the ultimate goal is to strengthen your connection with Allah and follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

So, is DIY Umrah for you? That answer lies in your priorities, preferences, and capacity. For me, the idea of crafting a unique, personal experience while honoring our rich Islamic heritage holds immense appeal. However, there’s no wrong choice—what matters is stepping into this journey with sincerity and humility.

Stay tuned for my next blog as I dive deeper into crafting the details of my trip! Feel free to take notes! May Allah SWT grant us all the opportunity to perform Umrah and accept it from us. Ameen.