Layla-tul-qadar, also known as the “Night of Power” brings in immense awards as this time commemorates the night where the Quran was first revealed to the Holy Prophet PBUH. It occurs during the last ten days (Last Ashra) of Ramadan and the awards for praying on this holy night are tremendous. The rewards of praying in this holy night are immense. One can only imagine the countless blessings that Allah showers on that person who is performing Umrah in these blessed nights. Due to this reason, many Muslims around the world look for the Ramadan Umrah Packages, hoping to get the most of these spiritually rewarding days.
So, let’s discuss what makes the Last Umrah package so special, from travel arrangements, accommodations, meals, and other amenities!
Understanding the Last Ashra of Ramadan
The last Ashra of Ramadan delivers a huge number of blessings and awards that one can just fathom. In order to get a better understanding of this we’ve discussed it in this section, why this period holds such a special place in the hearts of Muslims.
The Third Ashra
The last Ashra of Ramadan is known as the Ashra of seeking freedom from hellfire. The last ten days are the most blessed nights where the Quran was first revealed to Muhammad PBUH through angel Jibrael in the odd number of nights in Ramadan.
Spiritual Benefits
Fulfilling Umrah in this Holy month of Ramadan is equal to performing Hajj as narrated by Ibn `Abbas in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. Getting the opportunity for I’tikaf in the Haram is a blessing in itself, keeping yourself secluded from others while praying and reciting the Holy Quran without any disturbances. Seeking Laylat-ul-Qadar in itself is a huge accomplishment but doing that in Makkah and performing the rituals presents you with maximum spiritual rewards and blessings.
What’s Included in Last Ashra Packages?
Wondering what might be included in the Last Ashra Packages? Well, there are multiple things actually, from travel arrangements, accommodations, meals, and other services.
Travel Arrangements
Enjoy convenient round-trip flights from major cities, ensuring a seamless and delay-free journey to Saudi Arabia. There are also options for a direct flight to Saudia or connecting one’s, depending upon your budget and package. Majorly, the Umrah visa processing is done by the travelling agencies when you’ve provided them with the relevant documents, making the process smoother.
Accommodation
Packages are divided according to the budget. The 3-star package is the affordable one out of all, including a stay in a 3-star hotel, where the distance to the Haram is usually a 15-20 minutes’ drive. The 4-star package is an upgrade to the 3-star one. It includes a stay in a 4-star hotel with comfort-oriented services. The distance between the Haram is a 5-minute walk. The 5-star package is the luxurious one, offering a stay in a 5-star hotel with views of the Haram, VIP transport service directly to the Haram. All of the rooms are further segmented into three parts, quad occupancy, where four people can share the room, triple for three people and dual occupancy for two, respectively.
Meals & Catering
The meals included in the Last Ashra (last 10 days of Ramadan) packages vary by travel agent and package type, but typically feature Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast). The specific meal plan often depends on the hotel’s star rating and your package customisation. The iftar arrangements can be made either in the Haram or in the hotel. There are also special Ramadan buffets at certain places where you can enjoy the festivities and delicacies to the fullest.
Additional Services
Other amenities that are included in the package are:
- Ground Transportation: Most of the transportation is done either by air-conditioned bus or a VIP car that will take you to your place of accommodation.
- Ziyarat Tours: An agent is going to be provided who’ll guide you with the Ziyarat, showing the historical sites in the holy places of Makkah and Madinah.
- Customer Support: You can enjoy and relax as there’ll be an agent on standby answering any of your concerns and entertaining you throughout your stay.
- Personalised Services: VIP options can include a personal mutawif (Hajj/Umrah guide), concierge services, and even private medical staff.
Types of Last Ashra Packages Available
There are multiple types of Last Ashra Umrah packages available; you can choose the one that suits you the best.
Budget/Economy Packages
The cheap and budget friendly package where the accommodation provided is in a 3-star hotel, and the service there is satisfactory. You’ll be provided with a shared room with quad occupancy with a basic meal plan that involves suhoor. Your means of transportation would be by bus as part of a group from Makkah to Madinah.
Standard Packages
This is the upgraded version of the budget/economy package. Your stay would be at a 4-star hotel that has a family friendly environment and has better distance to the haram, 5-minute walk. The room where you’ll stay will be good and with either two or three people sharing. You’ll also benefit from upgraded meals, including both suhoor and iftar, as well as semi-private transport that offers a smoother, more comfortable experience than the usual standard service.
Luxury/Premium Packages
The best out of all the packages is this one, the Luxury Package. You stay at a luxurious 5-star hotel where the services given are top-notch without any room for complaints. The haram is just a minute or two away by foot and you are also given the option for a VIP travel service, where a private car will drop you at the door of Haram.
Special Packages
There are also specialised packages that can be useful for certain individuals:
- Family packages: These packages are designed for families with amenities and pricing made for multiple travellers. Agencies offer special options that include hotels with direct Haram views for families with children or elderly members, making easy access for prayers.
- Group packages: The packages often provide cost savings by combining expenses for accommodation, transportation, and guided tours. They can fortify a sense of friendship and unity among pilgrims.
- Ladies-only packages: These tours are specifically for women and are designed to provide a sense of security and focus on the spiritual aspects of Umrah. They often include a female guide who is knowledgeable about the rituals. The atmosphere is supportive and encouraging, allowing women to concentrate on their prayers and spiritual journey.
Conclusion
Hope this guide gives you a great understanding on the last Ashra Umrah packages. The best course of action that you can take is to book the package earlier, securing your benefits before the rest of the pilgrims. Isn’t it lovely, you’ll stay and search for the Night of Power in the holy places of Makkah and Madinah, which deepen your spiritual peace and foster your connection with Allah Almighty.
