Umrah FAQ's

Can I travel by myself or must I travel on a group package Umrah?  Top
One may travel on their own or in a group of any size – the only requirement is that all your accommodation and visa must be arranged through an approved agent. (Mian International )

Can I combine my trip with a stopover in another country?  Top
Yes, Many Airlines offer many onward destinations at a small extra charge including destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Far East. Other carriers such as Emirates, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Egypt Air and Pakistan Air line also offer stopovers and onward trips. However you must enter the Kingdom within one month of the visa issue date.

What if I cancel after booking?  Top
Payment is required in full prior to visa authorization application – this is a requirement by the Ministry of Hajj. Refunds on the ground arrangements portion of the payment cannot be given. Depending on the ticket type we may be able to refund the ticket amount less a cancellation charge if allowed by the airline. If the ticket has not yet been issued then there will be no cancellation charge.

Can I change the program once I have booked?  Top
No, this is no longer possible as payment for your package is sent to the Ministry of Hajj prior to visa authorization application and the visa issued according to the program.

What are the charges for children and infants?  Top
If the children require a bed or a seat in the transportation they then pay the full adult charge if 2 young children share one bed they pay 50% of the adult rate plus a service charge. If no bed/seat is required then they pay just the service/visa charge. Airlines typically charge 75-80% of the adult fare for children plus taxes and 10% for infants.

How much time must I allow between booking and date of travel?  Top
An absolute minimum of 7 days must be given to allow for visa authorization, visa processing and the necessary accommodation, flight reservations and confirmations.

What happens if I have a problem having arrived in Saudi Arabia?  Top
In the unlikely event of you having a problem with the accommodation/transportation-booked, we will issue you with a number of emergency contact numbers that you should contact in the first instance-otherwise you may contact us by phone or fax here in the Japan and we will do our utmost to resolve your problem ASAP.

Can I select a hotel of my choice?  Top
You may choose from any hotel from our wide selection of hotels ranging, from 5 stars deluxe to 2 star economy hotels-subjects to availability.

Can I get a visa without booking accommodation?  Top
No, this is no longer possible and is against the law in Saudi Arabia-accommodation must be booked and paid for through the agent.

What if I am unhappy with the package?  Top
In the first instance, you must get in touch with our service provider whilst in Saudi Arabia so that the problem may be resolved immediately, otherwise you may get in touch with us and we will endeavor to investigate and resolve the problem. Finally if all else fails then the Ministry of Hajj can also investigate your complaint.

Will I have a guide for umrah?  Top
On tailor made packages there are no guides, however if you wish to travel on an escorted trip we offer escorted umrah trips in August to coincide with the school holidays and in Ramadan. We also offer a number of Hajj tours including deluxe, short deluxe and a standard cheaper package-all featuring international flights and quality accommodation.

How do I travel between Makkah and Madinah?  Top
The Saudi Arabian Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) offers an hourly service between Makkah and Madinah throughout the day on quality and reliable air conditioned coaches, at an approximate cost of Yen 3000 return. Alternatively you can hire a cab for approximately Yen 8000 one way. The coach stations are located near the Haramayn.

Are Ziyarah trips included?  Top
No, Ziyarah trips may be arranged through a limousine company or any taxi driver locally.

You may only get a visa for umrah if:

• You have an “Japanese Reentry Visa” endorsement on your passport
• You are here to stay with your spouse who is Japanese National
• You are here on a student visa

How many times in a year can I get an umrah visa?  Top
Under the new system there are no restrictions on the number of times that you can apply for an umrah visa as long as the criteria for umrah visa are met.

Can a lady travel by herself?  Top
It is a requirement of the Shariah as well as the Saudi government that a women must travel with a valid Mahram (close male relative) i.e. father, son, brother, grandson, maternal or paternal uncle, grandfather, nephew, father-in-law and son-in-law.

What are the hotel’s check-in and check-out times?  Top
Earliest hotel check-in time is 5pm, and the latest check-out time is also 2pm. We cannot be held liable for accommodation not being available beyond these times. If a flight is arriving earlier than the check-in time on the day of arrival, we advise that accommodation is also booked for the night prior.