Performing the Umrah pilgrimage doesnt always have to be through a travel agent. Many Indonesian pilgrims are starting to choose independent Umrah, which means arranging all the pilgrimage needs themselves, from visas, plane tickets, hotels, to intercity transportation. Besides being more flexible, this method can also reduce costs if you are good at managing schedules and choosing services.

If you plan to perform independent Umrah this year, the following guide will help you from start to finish, complete with cost estimates, how to apply for a visa, hotel recommendations, and an example itinerary.

Independent Umrah means you arrange the entire trip without the help of a travel agent. All needs such as visas, tickets, hotels, and transportation are handled directly by the pilgrims. Although it sounds complicated, the process is actually quite easy if done with careful preparation.

The main steps of independent Umrah include:

The advantages of independent Umrah are flexibility in time, adjustable costs, and a more personal spiritual experience. However, you must also be prepared to arrange everything yourself without an official guide.

The cost of independent Umrah can vary depending on the choice of accommodation, airline, and departure time. However, here is an estimated cost range if you depart from Jakarta in 2025:

Tips for saving: book tickets in advance, take advantage of airline and hotel promotions, and choose to travel outside of peak season (Ramadan and December-January).

To ensure a smooth Umrah trip, make sure all documents and requirements are complete.

Important Note:

- Hotel Booking confirmation with Hotel Confirmation Number (HCN), after confirming your reservation, do contact the hotel (via phone or email) if you wish to obtain the official HCN for your Visa Application.

-Non-HCN required Visas are also applicable at an additional cost from Visa issuance companies.

-Traveloka is not responsible for providing any additional information required for the issuance of travel documents or visas (including but not limited to the hotel confirmation number (HCN), other than the travel information stated on the e-voucher and the product information specified in the relevant Hotel’s terms and conditions. We strongly recommend that you first confirm the applicable visa and/or entry-permit requirements with the relevant embassy or authorized visa provider prior to confirming any booking. Information displayed on the Traveloka Platform for the accommodation products is provided solely for the purpose of facilitating accommodation bookings and does not constitute advice regarding visa, immigration, or other travel document requirements. You are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable entry and visa regulations for your intended travel purposes. We shall not be liable for any consequences for the inability to utilize any accommodation products or related services arising from your failure to obtain the required visa, entry-permit, or other relevant travel authorization.

In addition, also bring backup documents (photocopies of passport, visa, and tickets) as a precaution.

*Vaccination provisions can change at any time.

For Indonesian pilgrims, an Umrah visa can be accessible only through authorized travel agencies or licensed visa-issuance agencies, not through individual applications. Pilgrims must apply through these approved channels and currently cannot submit the visa application on their own. This option is ideal for those who prefer a guided Umrah experience with arrangements handled by a trusted provider.

Information: In addition to the Umrah visa, Indonesian citizens can also use a tourist visa during independent Umrah.

The Tourist Visa offers greater flexibility. Many Muslims take advantage of this visa to perform independent Umrah throughout the year (except during the Hajj season). This visa is ideal for travelers who travel frequently, families who want to combine Umrah with tourism, or those of you who prefer to arrange your own flights and accommodation.

There are many airlines serving the Indonesia-Saudi Arabia route, such as Saudia Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways.

Some popular routes:

Tips for choosing tickets:

Staying at Pullman ZamZam Makkah is a good choice when you are visiting Makkah. Pullman ZamZam Makkah is a hotel with great comfort and excellent service according to most hotel's guests. Get precious and unforgettable moment during your stay at Pullman ZamZam Makkah.

The highest quality service accompanying its extensive facilities will make you get the ultimate umrah experience.

InterContinental Hotels DAR AL TAWHID MAKKAH by IHG, an IHG Hotel is a hotel with great comfort and excellent service according to most hotel's guests.

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel is located in area / city Makkah. Savor your favorite dishes with special cuisines from Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel exclusively for you. Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel is a hotel with great comfort and excellent service according to most hotel's guests.

Staying at Golden Tulip Al Zahabi is a good choice when you are visiting Madinah. With all facilities offered, Golden Tulip Al Zahabi is the right place to stay.

Makarem Ajyad is a hotel is located at Ajyad. Makarem Ajyad is a hotel with great comfort and excellent service according to most hotel's guests. Get precious and unforgettable moment during your stay at Makarem Ajyad.

Also read: Hotels on the Grand Mosque Courtyard, 5 Minutes Away!

After arriving in Saudi Arabia, you can choose several transportation options:

1. Airport Taxi

- Available at King Abdulaziz Airport (Jeddah) and Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (Madinah).

- Fares are around SAR 100–150 to the city center.
- Use official taxis or applications such as Careem.

2. Intercity Bus (SAPTCO)

- Official intercity operator, Makkah–Madinah route is about 6 hours.
- Ticket prices are around SAR 60–80 (Rp250–350 thousand).

3. Haramain High-Speed Train

- The fastest alternative from Madinah to Makkah (only a 2-hour journey).

- Tickets can be booked at www.hhr.sa.

- Prices are around SAR 150–200 per person (Rp600–800 thousand).

Here are the basic umrah procedures you need to understand before you leave:

1. Miqat (Umrah Intention)

- Pilgrims from Madinah usually make their intention at Dzul Hulaifah (Bir Ali).

- Use ihram clothing and the intention: “Labbaik Allahumma Umrah.”

2. Thawaf (Circling the Kabah)

- Perform 7 counter-clockwise rounds.

- Start from the Black Stone and end at the same place.

3. Sai (Running between the Safa and Marwah Hills)

- Perform 7 times (Safa–Marwah is counted as one).

- It is recommended to pray and increase dhikr during sai.

4. Tahallul (Shaving the head)

- For men, it is recommended to shave completely; women should cut a little of their hair.

- After tahallul, you have completed umrah and are free to wear ordinary clothes again.

There’s also an Instant Track that is available every 20 minutes, designed for pilgrims that are already near the mosque. It allows you to book a quick-entry slot if there’s available space.

Tips for entering the Raudhah:

Performing independent umrah 2025 is not difficult as long as it is done with careful planning. By arranging your own visa, tickets, and hotel, you can get a more flexible and efficient spiritual experience.

You can save time and avoid hassle when performing independent umrah by knowing some of the common mistakes that pilgrims often make, as follows:

Performing independent umrah 2025 is no longer difficult, as long as it is done with careful planning. By arranging your own visa, tickets, and hotel, you can get a more flexible and efficient spiritual experience.

Before you leave, make sure you have booked plane tickets and hotel best through trusted platforms like Traveloka, so that your pilgrimage to the Holy Land goes comfortably and smoothly.

*Important note: All the information above is always updated, and the last update was on November 25, 2025. Please use the information above only as a reference.