Top 5 Airlines for Umrah Travel from the UK in 2025: Comfort, Cost & Convenience Compared
12 Jul, 2025
Planning your Umrah journey from the UK can be overwhelming, especially when choosing the right airline. With so many options available—ranging from budget-friendly to full-service carriers—it’s important to pick a flight that balances comfort, price, convenience, and religious needs.
Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, this guide breaks down the best airlines for Umrah travel from the UK and what makes each one suitable for your spiritual trip.
Why Your Airline from UK for Umrah
Your airline plays a big role in your overall Umrah experience. Think about:
Direct flights vs. layovers (which can be tiring for elderly pilgrims)
Baggage allowances, especially if you’re bringing gifts back home
In-flight comfort, meals, prayer facilities
And of course, ticket price
Let’s explore the top airlines flying from the UK to Saudi Arabia for Umrah in 2025.
Top UK Airlines for Umrah Travel in 2025
Here’s a simplified comparison of the UK’s best airlines for Umrah, including direct options and low-cost carriers:
| Airline | Type | From | To | Average Return Fare | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saudia Airlines | Direct, Full-Service | London, Manchester | Jeddah, Madinah | £300–£600 | Comfortable, meals included, great for families |
| British Airways | Direct, Full-Service | London Heathrow | Jeddah | £400–£600 | High-quality service, loyalty benefits |
| Wizz Air | Direct, Budget | London Gatwick | Jeddah | £190–£250 | Cheapest ticket, great for solo travelers |
| Virgin Atlantic | Indirect via Riyadh | London Heathrow | Riyadh (connect to Jeddah) | £400+ | Premium service, new route, modern aircraft |
| Turkish Airlines | One-stop (Istanbul) | London, Birmingham | Jeddah, Madinah | £350–£550 | Excellent transit experience, meals included |
Direct Umrah flights from UK to Saudi?
Direct Umrah flights from the UK to Saudi Arabia offer a convenient and time-saving option for pilgrims. Major airlines like Saudia, British Airways, and Wizz Air operate non-stop services from London and Manchester to key Saudi cities such as Jeddah and Madinah. These direct flights typically take around 6 to 7 hours, making the journey smoother—especially for elderly travelers or families. Saudia and British Airways provide full-service experiences with meals and baggage included, while Wizz Air offers a budget-friendly alternative. Choosing a direct airline for Umrah from the UK ensures comfort, efficiency, and a stress-free start to your spiritual journey.
Looking for the Cheapest Airline for Umrah from UK?
If you're on a tight budget, Wizz Air is a great choice. The airline launched direct flights from Gatwick to Jeddah with one-way fares as low as £134.99. While it’s a no-frills option (no free luggage or meals), it’s perfect for younger pilgrims or light packers.
What About Full-Service Airlines?
For a smoother, more comfortable journey—especially for elders or families—Saudia Airlines is the top pick. It's the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, and they understand the needs of Umrah travelers. Direct flights, prayer-friendly services, and meal options all make your spiritual trip less stressful.
British Airways also offers direct flights to Jeddah with added comfort and British-style customer service. Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic is a newer player with daily service to Riyadh, from where you can easily connect to Jeddah or Madinah via their partner airline, Saudia.
Choosing an Airline vs. Umrah Packages
Many people book their flights separately, but it’s often easier (and more affordable) to go for Umrah packages from the UK. These packages usually include:
Round-trip flights
Hotel stays near Masjid al-Haram or Masjid al-Nabawi
Visa processing
Ground transport in Saudi Arabia
Some travel agents partner with airlines like Saudia, British Airways, or even Wizz Air to give you better rates in bundled deals. Prices start from around £479 for a basic 3-star Umrah package.
Travel Tips for UK Pilgrims
Book early: Fares are lower 4–8 weeks before departure.
Travel off-season: Outside of Ramadan and school holidays, prices drop.
Check baggage policies: Low-cost airlines charge extra for luggage.
Use trusted travel agents: They often get better bulk rates for Umrah packages.
So, what’s the best airline for Umrah travel from the UK?
On a budget? Choose Wizz Air.
Want a hassle-free, direct experience? Go with Saudia Airlines.
Prefer British service and comfort? Opt for British Airways.
Looking for a new, stylish option? Try Virgin Atlantic via Riyadh.
Want everything handled for you? Book a Umrah package from the UK with flight included.
Whichever airline you choose, may your Umrah journey be safe, peaceful, and spiritually uplifting. ✨