How much money to bring on Umrah: your on-site budget

What the package doesn't cover

A serious Umrah program states its inclusions and exclusions. Generally included: flight, hotels, visa, transfers, guidance, and often breakfast. At your expense: other meals, personal spending, some local travel, and purchases.

It's this second budget, rarely anticipated, that creates unpleasant surprises.

Items to plan for

• Meals — lunch and dinner for the whole stay. In Makkah and Madinah, options range from very affordable local eateries to international chains. This is the main item.
• Local transport — even with a nearby hotel, you'll sometimes take a taxi (fatigue, timings, visits around the city).
• Visits — excursions around Makkah or Madinah if not included (what to see in Makkah).
• Zamzam water and gifts — Moroccan custom is to bring something back; also plan the baggage weight.
• Pharmacy and contingencies — a safety reserve is essential.

Currency: three simple rules

1. The currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR). Have some on arrival, for the first taxi or first meal.
2. Exchange both in Morocco and on site, but never everything at once — spread it, and keep part on a usable bank card.
3. Don't rush-exchange the full amount at the airport: rates there are rarely the best.

Also respect Moroccan currency regulations on funds taken abroad; your bank will advise.

A simple way to estimate

Set a realistic daily budget for meals and small costs, multiply by the number of days, add an envelope for gifts and Zamzam, then a safety margin of about 20%. You get a clear figure, with no surprises.

For the trip budget itself (what moves the package price), see Umrah tiers and our budget chapter.

Our transparency

At Wiki Tours International, every offer states clearly what is and isn't included — the basis of an honest budget. A question about your situation? Message us on WhatsApp before booking.

What you don't have to pay for

Many pilgrims carry too much cash because they budget for things already covered — or free:

• Zamzam water is freely available throughout the Masjid al‑Haram and the Prophet's ﷺ Mosque. You only pay if you bring home a sealed container.
• Prayer mats, Qurans and prayer space are provided; nothing to rent.
• Wheelchairs at the Grand Mosque are available free of charge; only a pushed-assistance service is paid.
• Flight, hotel, transfers, visa and guidance are already in our packages: they don't belong in your pocket money.

What genuinely remains yours: meals not included, personal purchases, gifts, and any travel you add outside the program.

The payment rules that protect you

• No online payment. Our booking is confirmed by a written contract signed at the agency, with an official receipt.
• A 50% deposit confirms the place; the balance is due before departure. That lets you spread your budget.
• Never pay into a personal account, whatever the agency. A legitimate payment goes to a company, against a receipt.
• On site, carry small amounts in cash and keep the rest on card: ATMs are plentiful around both Harams.