Muslims need to perform the holy journey of Umrah. A basic necessity, such as feeding oneself or managing day-to-day tasks within one’s financial capacity, is a common concern for most pilgrims. Here is some good news: If you plan, you can eat well while buying food and tasting Halal food in Makkah and Madinah at reasonable prices.
Explore Local Restaurants
Local restaurants can be compelling for eating local dishes, but availing them does not allow people to break their back to pay money. Fast foods include burgers, mandi, and shawarma, while local dishes include kabsa, rice with meat, and more for affordable prices. It also gives a shot to taste the Saudi flavours in these restaurants. Sometimes, while travelling in Umrah Packages including flights from UK, tourists can visit these attractions, which have much more meaningful sites to see while keeping expenses down.
Tend to Food Courts in Malls
Notably, Makkah and Madinah are among the cities with new-generation shopping centers. In these malls, there are food courts with several stations. They serve foods from various categories, including Middle Eastern, Indian, and fast food. Familiar options include meals such as burgers, pizza, rice, and other dishes, with prices as low as about two thousand shillings.
So, food courts will be a good pick for groups or families. In cases where one is using Ramadan Umrah Packages food courts will be great stops to grab a bite during Suhoor or Iftar without breaking the pocket.
Pack Food from Home
Another way to cut costs during the Umrah trip is to take packed food. Regular food items include fruits, nuts, biscuits, dried fruits, and instant noodles because they weight little. Instant noodles are simple to make by pouring hot water and are freely available in most hotels.
Those who choose December Umrah Packages for the first trip must take snacks because, during prayers or waiting in line, during prayers or waiting in line for various services, they may need help finding food sellers around.
Share Meals with Others
Sharing meals with friends or family is a practical way to reduce food expenses. Many restaurants in Makkah and Madinah serve large portions. Instead of ordering separate dishes, share a meal with someone in your group. This not only reduces costs but also avoids food wastage. Splitting bills is possible when considering Umrah Packages including flights which will help you save money and time when travelling.
Try Buffet Deals
There are always plenty of buffets at fixed prices, especially for families. Buffets often include salads, rice, grilled meat, and desserts. The one criticism you might hear is the cost; however, it isn’t expensive if you consider everything offered in portions. The hotels around the Haram also usually include buffets. If you choose Umrah Packages these buffet options guarantee good, fresh, and healthy meals from the best chefs, all at reasonable prices.
Enjoy Street Food
It is even tasty and cheaper to buy food from the street. Makkah and Madinah have food fountains selling falafel sandwiches, samosas, roasted corn, and fresh juices. These quick bites will suit the pilgrims, as they can sort them out very quickly between the journeys. Those who travel with Ramadan Umrah Packages should expect to taste local food and buy food from stalls during their pilgrimage trip.
Cook Your Meals
One of the greatest ways to save money is to cook your meals if your accommodation comes with a kitchenette. Purchase vegetables, bread, and rice from the local supermarket because they will be fresh. Several grocery stores, like Bin Dawood and Carrefour, have low prices. Cooking food saves money and permits healthier meals to be consumed.
Drink Zamzam Water
Zamzam water is safe and tasty and can be found anywhere in Makkah and Madina. Don’t purchase bottled water; use your bottle to fill it with Zamzam water. There’s no need to go out and buy a new bottle of water when you could refill one you already have.
Check the Special Offers and Discounts
Many restaurants and cafes have their price reduction during specific periods. Get combo meals or search for the “buy one, get one free” type of deals. Food applications such as HungerStation and Talabat also offer discounts so you can eat cheap meals at your accommodation.
Eat at Food Stalls Near the Haram
There are many fast food and other small snack stands all around Haram. This fast food restaurant offers several usual Japanese meals for a moderate price range: fried chicken, rice plates, bread, and tea. These stalls are relevant for providing quick food after prayers or during a break.
Avoid Expensive Restaurants
Restaurants founded in complex hotel facilities offer their dishes more reasonably priced. The food quality is probably good, but the price can be huge. In its place, choose basic meals found in restaurants, food courts, or stalls in Saudi Arabia.
Opt for Simple and Healthy Dishes
Boiled rice with lentils, soups of vegetables, or bread with chickpea dip are easily prepared and cheap. They are lighter meals that do not strain your stomach, especially when Madinah and Makkah prayers require all-day sitting.
Conclusion
It is very manageable to control your spending on food during your Umrah if you plan. Travelling to a new city is always exciting – besides visiting local restaurants, there are several ways to minimize the expenses. Street foods, big groups that order food from nearby restaurants with buffet-style meals, and food courts can offer a mix of food without hurting the wallet. Another small measure to save for is keeping hydrated using only Zamzam water. Targeted passengers who intend to use December Umrah Packages or those planning for the upcoming Umrah Packages 2025 will benefit from the various packages that offer quality at an economical price.
