For many Muslims in the UK, especially in the North of England, Manchester is one of the most convenient airports for traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. Choosing the right flight can make your journey smoother and less tiring, allowing you to focus more on your spiritual preparation. Working with the best Umrah travel agency can save you time and money, as they not only arrange packages but also guide you in choosing direct flights that fit your schedule and budget.
Why Choose Direct Flights for Umrah?
Direct flights are always preferable for Umrah pilgrims because they reduce travel time and avoid the stress of long layovers. When you fly non-stop, you arrive quicker, which makes it easier to manage your Ihram, perform the rituals without exhaustion, and save valuable energy for the acts of worship. For elderly pilgrims and families with children, direct flights are especially important for comfort and convenience.
Direct Routes from Manchester to Saudi Arabia
Currently, Manchester Airport offers non-stop flights to Jeddah, which is the gateway to Makkah. The main airline operating this route is Saudia (Saudi Airlines), with flights lasting approximately six and a half hours. From Jeddah, pilgrims can travel directly to Makkah for Umrah.
At the moment, there are no confirmed direct flights from Manchester to Madinah. If you want to land in Madinah first, you may have to take a connecting flight through Riyadh, Istanbul, or Dubai. While this adds extra travel time, many agencies help you arrange the itinerary so you can still comfortably perform your pilgrimage.
Tips for Booking Direct Flights
- Book Early – Umrah flights, especially non-stop ones, get fully booked quickly. It’s best to secure your tickets at least a few months in advance.
- Check Peak and Off-Peak Seasons – Prices rise significantly during Ramadan and school holidays. Traveling off-peak often saves money.
- Choose the Right Airline – Saudia is the main airline for direct flights, but sometimes agencies combine flights with Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, or Emirates (with stopovers). Direct Saudia flights remain the fastest option.
- Travel Packages vs. Flight-Only – Sometimes booking your ticket as part of a full Umrah package is cheaper than buying separately. Agencies often get special group discounts.
- Comfort Matters – If traveling with elderly family members, consider premium economy or business class for extra comfort, especially on the long return journey.
The Benefit of Agency Guidance
Many first-time pilgrims find booking flights confusing because of fluctuating prices and different visa requirements. The best approach is to rely on a trusted travel agency that specializes in Umrah. They understand the timings, the miqat considerations, and how to plan your itinerary so you don’t miss any important steps.
Qibla Travels – A Reliable Partner for Pilgrims
Among UK-based agencies, Qibla Travels has earned a strong reputation for helping pilgrims find the best Umrah options. They not only provide affordable packages but also assist in booking direct flights from Manchester, ensuring a stress-free journey. Their experienced team gives clear guidance on visa processing, flight timing, and transport between airports and holy cities. Many pilgrims prefer Qibla Travels because they combine affordability with reliability, ensuring that every traveler feels supported from the moment they leave Manchester until they complete their Umrah.
