The Ultimate “Umrah Plus” Guide: How to Combine Istanbul & Makkah from Europe
Introduction For Muslims living in Europe, the journey to the Holy Lands often involves a transit. But what if you could turn that layover into a breathtaking journey through Islamic history?
The “Umrah Plus Turkey” package is becoming the preferred choice for pilgrims departing from London, Frankfurt, Paris, and Amsterdam. By combining the spiritual serenity of Makkah with the rich Ottoman heritage of Istanbul, you create a “2-in-1” spiritual holiday. Here is how Noble Hajj Umrah makes it happen.
Why Choose an “Umrah Plus” Package?
Flying with Turkish Airlines—one of the most frequent carriers from Europe to Jeddah—offers a unique advantage. Instead of rushing through the airport, you can step out and explore.
- Value for Money: You visit two major Islamic destinations for essentially the price of one flight ticket.
- Break the Journey: For families traveling with children or elderly parents from Europe, a 3-day rest in Istanbul breaks up the tiring long-haul travel, making the final leg to Saudi Arabia much easier.
- Historical Context: Visiting the Topkapi Palace (home to Sacred Relics of the Prophet ﷺ) in Istanbul sets a beautiful spiritual foundation before you arrive in Madinah.
The logistics: How We Handle the Details
Many “DIY” travelers hesitate because of the logistics. Do I need two visas? Where do I wear Ihram? As your trusted agency, we handle the complexities:
Visa Management
European citizens often have different visa rules for Turkey and Saudi Arabia. We process your Saudi Umrah Visa and assist with the Turkish E-Visa (if required for your nationality), ensuring a seamless border crossing.
The “Ihram Point” Strategy
The most common question we get: “Where do I wear my Ihram?” When flying from Istanbul to Jeddah, you cross the Miqat in the air. We guide you to wear your Ihram at your hotel in Istanbul or at the airport departure gate, ensuring your intention (Niyyah) is made correctly before the flight enters the prohibited zone.
Sample Itinerary: 12 Days of History & Ibadah
Our most popular Europe-to-Umrah itinerary looks like this:
- Days 1-3 (Istanbul): Arrival from Europe. Ziyarat of Sahaba graves (Eyup Sultan), Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
- Day 4 (Travel): Flight to Madinah.
- Days 5-8 (Madinah): Masjid Al Nabawi and Ziyarats.
- Days 9-12 (Makkah): Performing Umrah and daily prayers in the Haram.
Conclusion: Two Journeys, One Ticket
Why settle for just a transit? Transform your pilgrimage into a comprehensive Islamic tour. Whether you are flying from Germany, the UK, or the Netherlands, the Umrah Plus Turkey package offers the perfect balance of history, comfort, and spirituality.
Contact Noble Hajj Umrah today to customize your multi-destination pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions: Umrah Plus Turkey
Yes, generally. You will need the Saudi Umrah/Tourist Visa for the pilgrimage portion. For the Turkey stopover, it depends on your nationality.
UK & EU Citizens: Many European passport holders are exempt from Turkish visas for short tourist stays or can get an E-Visa in minutes.
Residents (Non-EU Passport): If you hold a Residence Permit (e.g., from Germany or Netherlands) but travel on a non-EU passport, you can usually apply for a Turkish E-Visa online if you have a valid Schengen/USA/UK visa. We assist with both applications at Noble Hajj Umrah.
Since the flight from Istanbul to Jeddah flies over the Miqat, you must be in the state of Ihram before you land.
Our Recommendation: We advise men to shower and wear the Ihram sheets at their hotel in Istanbul or at the Istanbul Airport (IST) prayer rooms before boarding. You make your Niyyah (intention) on the plane when the pilot announces the Miqat zone (usually 30 mins before landing).
If you book a "Stopover" (staying more than 24 hours), you must collect your luggage in Istanbul. This is actually a benefit! It allows you to have your clothes for your few days of tourism. When you return to the airport for the Jeddah flight, you will check them in again.
Often, yes. Turkish Airlines uses the "stopover model" to attract tourists. A flight from London/Amsterdam via Istanbul is frequently cheaper than a direct flight with Saudia or British Airways, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan or December holidays. Plus, you get a "free" holiday destination included in the travel price.
We recommend 3 days and 2 nights. This gives you enough time to visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace (to see the Holy Relics) without getting too tired before your Umrah.
