Does Hajjplans.com provide Umrah services of their own?
No, Hajjplans.com does not provide Umrah services. We are simply a website that provides and compares various Hajj groups all across North America. The individual is to choose which Umrah group suits his/her needs.

Can Hajjplans.com recommend a certain Umrah group for me?
The duty of Hajjplans.com is to provide a database of different Umrah groups and compare prices, accommodation ratings, experience, etc. for each group. Hajjplans.com does not provide recommendations or hold biases of any particular group. We do, however, plan to launch a group forum on the website so that the general public could share their thoughts and experiences about the various Umrah groups listed.

If I find a better package in a city other than my own, am I able to join that group?
In most cases this is possible. Most groups allow pilgrims from anywhere in the country, but their package includes airfare only from the city of departure as mentioned in their package. Therefore, the travel from your home city to their city would be covered by you. The best course of action in this situation is to contact the Umrah group directly and ask them what arrangements they could set up for you.

Why are some packages under the same name but with different costs?
Most Hajj & Umrah groups have different packages you can choose from. The cost vary depending on a variety of items such as number of nights stayed in both Mecca and Medinah, the hotel ratings of each city, the number of people in the hotels, the airline route, etc. When you click on the package, the details appear and tell you what you get with the package. We recommend you contact the group directly for specific questions about their packages.

I noticed that some Hajj groups with very high prices have the same hotel-star ratings as groups with low prices. How can this be possible?
The costs of packages are not solely dependent upon the hotel ratings, but rather all aspects of arrangements offered. It is possible for a low-cost Hajj group to have 5-star hotels but the duration of stay may be for just a few nights, as opposed to other high-cost groups that have more total nights stayed. Another possibility could be whether or not the low-cost groups include visa processing fees, qurbani fees, and/or any other services which are provided by the high-cost groups. It is highly advised that you check all aspects of what is offered before choosing a group.

After I look at and compare the Hajj groups on Hajjplans.com, what is the next step?
The next step is to simply choose a Hajj group that suits your needs. When you have chosen a group, contact them and fill out the necessary application form(s); some groups may then ask for a payment deposit. Contact the chosen group for more information. We recommend you start the process early to avoid disappointment and rushed procedures.

Can Hajjplans.com assist me in the application process?
Unfortunately, Hajjplans.com does not have any affiliation with any of the Hajj groups listed on our website. It is, therefore, your duty to contact them and get the necessary paper work done; on time.

What are the necessary things I would need to pack for Umrah?
The most agreed upon rule of thumb in regards to packing for Hajj is Pack Light. Hajj groups emphasize this all of the time simply because there is not much you need to take for the actual Hajj days, and for the remainder of your time, a lot of what you need is available in Saudi Arabia at great costs. However, a general list of necessary things to pack is as follows: small Quran, Hajj book, prayer rug, sandals, sleeping bag, medications for diarrhea, cough/cold, fever/headache (in original packages), blanket & sheets, note pad and pen, sunglasses, and a jacket or sweater. If one is flying into Jeddah, they must also have all clothing requirements for the Ihram, including a leather belt with an area to keep money and other things that must be carried. Again, your Hajj group will be able to give more details on this issue.

What else can Hajjplans.com tell me about going for Hajj?
Hajjplans.com makes it easy for you to find the right Hajj & Umrah group that caters to your needs. Keep in mind that going for Umrah from the U.S.A. is not an easy task and requires a lot of patience and perseverance. Make sure you get all of your questions answered from your group leader and be sure to read the Umrah Travel Guide on Hajjplans.com in order to assure you understand all aspects of the journey.