✉ contact@houdasalamtravel.com
en | fr Home Packages About FAQ Contact Houda Connect Book now

Everything you need to know before your Umrah

Find answers to the most common questions below. If yours is not covered, our team is available 7 days a week.

🕌 The pilgrimage
What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah? +
Hajj is the major pilgrimage, a religious obligation once in a lifetime for every Muslim able to undertake it, and it takes place at a fixed time of year (the month of Dhul Hijjah). Umrah is the minor pilgrimage, not obligatory, and can be performed at any time of year.
How long does an Umrah usually last? +
Our Umrah trips generally last between 10 and 14 days. This covers the time spent in Madinah (Ziyarat) and Makkah, including Tawaf, Sa'i and visits to the holy sites.
Can Umrah be performed at any time of year? +
Yes, Umrah can be performed all year round. We do however advise against the Hajj period (the month of Dhul Hijjah), as Makkah is extremely crowded then.
📋 Booking & Payment
How do I make a booking? +
It is straightforward: choose your package on the Packages page, click "Book", complete the online form and pay the 30% deposit. Our team then contacts you within 24 hours to confirm your file.
What are the payment terms? +
A 30% deposit is required at booking to secure your place. The balance is due 30 days before departure. We accept bank transfers and secure online payments.
What is the cancellation policy? +
Cancellation more than 60 days before departure: full refund except the €50 administration fee. Between 30 and 60 days: 50% refunded. Less than 30 days: non-refundable. We recommend taking out cancellation insurance.
📄 Visa & Documents
What does the visa cover? +
We handle the entire Umrah visa process. You simply provide your valid passport (at least 6 months' validity), 2 passport photos, proof of address and your meningitis vaccination certificate.
Which vaccination is compulsory? +
The meningococcal meningitis vaccine (ACYW135) is compulsory to enter Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage. It must be administered at least 10 days before departure.
Does my passport need to be recent? +
Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. Women under 45 must travel with a mahram (male guardian) or as part of an approved organised group, which we provide.
🏨 Accommodation & Travel
Are transfers included from France? +
Yes, our packages include return flights from France as well as transfers between airports and hotels in Madinah and Makkah. Flights from other French cities can be arranged on request.
Are the hotels close to the mosques? +
Yes, all our hotels are chosen for their proximity to the mosques. The Comfort and Prestige packages guarantee hotels less than a 5-minute walk from Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi.
Can I travel alone or with my family? +
Absolutely. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families and groups. Special group rates are available from 5 people. Contact us for a tailored quote.
💼 Choosing your package
How do I choose the right package? +
We suggest choosing according to your budget and priorities. If comfort matters most, go for the Comfort or Prestige package. For a first trip or a tighter budget, the Essential package covers everything you need. Feel free to contact us for free advice.
Are there discounts for children? +
Reduced rates are available for children under 12. Children under 2 travel free (without an allocated seat). Contact us for exact pricing.

Question not listed?

Our team is available 7 days a week to answer any question, by WhatsApp, email or phone.