1. Does an individual have to travel to Saudi Arabia with a tailor-made package or group, or can he/she travel individually?

An individual may travel to Saudi Arabia with a group, with a tailor made package or individually. If the individual requires a mahram, both must travel together.

 

  1. What are the benefits of travelling with a group?

The benefits of travelling with a group include the following: 1) It is sometimes cheaper to travel with a group as the costs are divided by the number of people sharing a room 2) HST Tours has a very reputable relationship with agents in Saudi Arabia, and we can get hotel rooms at a competitive rate. This will reduce the package rates as we can bulk buy a large number of rooms 3) There will always be a reliable group leader with you, to guide you through your journey and help with any issues you may encounter.

Please note: If you choose to travel as part of a group, you do not have to stay with the group throughout your trip. You will have the freedom to explore individually.

 

  1. Can a female travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah on her own?

According to Sharia Law a female has to travel with a mahram, who is a close male relative, ie: father, son, grandson, brother, paternal uncle, grandfather, nephew, father in law and son in law. Saudi authorities now allow women over the age of 45 years old to travel in a group without a mahram.

 

  1. Is it possible to change the flight dates?

Once the tickets have been booked, the tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable.

 

 

  1. Can I take a phone with me?

Yes you can take a phone. You can choose to either purchase a sim from Saudi Arabia, or connect to the wifi.

 

  1. What are the charges for children and infants?

This all depends on whether the child(ren) require a separate bed at the hotel(s) or a seat in the transport which we arrange. If no bed or seat is required, then the only charges that will apply will be the ticket and visa charge.

 

  1. Do children have the same luggage limit as adults?

Yes – children who are 2 years or older can take the same amount of luggage as adults.

 

 

  1. Do you provide travel insurance?

No – we do not provide travel insurance. We, at HST Tours, do not accept any form of liability for any events which may occur while travelling with us. However, we do recommend taking out a travel insurance policy.

 

 

  1. Can I get a visa without a package?

No – HST Tours cannot assist in obtaining a visa without the purchase of a Hajj package.

 

  1. Can I purchase Zamzam water to bring back to the UK with me?

Yes – you can purchase 5 litres per person. This can be purchased at the airport. 

 

  1. Will I receive help if I am disabled?

We can arrange a helper to assist you during your tawaf. Please specify this when making your booking.

 

  1. Will I get to choose the hotel of my preference?

HST Tours has links with a number of hotels in Saudi Arabia, which means we will be able to find a hotel that matches your needs and preferences for you to enjoy your stay in. Whether it be a 3*, a 4* or a 5*, we will do our best to book a hotel which suits your budget too. In our group packages, we include hotels which we have chosen to stay in, in Makkah and Madinah. However, if you have your own choice of hotel in mind, this can be arranged for you.**

**subject to availability

 

 

  1. If I encounter any problems when I am in Saudi Arabia, what do I do?

In the unlikely event that you’ll have any problems with transportation, accommodation or flights, we will do our very best to try and resolve the issue immediately. If you are travelling with a group, your group leader(s) will be there at hand to solve any issues. If you are travelling alone, we will provide you with an emergency contact number for one of our agents in Saudi Arabia. This number will be provided on your itinerary sheet. Otherwise, you may contact us at HST Tours in the United Kingdom, by telephone on the office number or mobile, and we will aim to rectify your issue as soon as possible.

 

 

  1. If I’m disappointed with the package I was provided, or the service provided by HST Tours, what can I do?

If for any reason you are unhappy with anything, please get in touch with us. If there’s an issue with the package while you’re in Saudi Arabia, please contact one of our Saudi agents, or contact us in the United Kingdom and we will look to resolve the issue as soon as possible. If these options fail, please contact the Ministry of Hajj who will look into your issue.

 

 

  1. Are Ziyarats included in our package?

Yes – ziyarats in Makkah and Madinah are included in all our packages, whether you choose to travel with a group or individually.

 

  1. If I become ill or injured on my trip, who will take care of me?

If a pilgrim has a minor or serious illness, we at HST Tours will do our best to assist in obtaining medical help. However, we do not and cannot provide personal service. Within the limits of our ability, we will advise and assist if you become seriously ill and/or are hospitalised, within the limits of our ability.

 

  1. How do I carry things with me when I’m in Ihram?

The best method would be to use a tote bag. These bags are small, light and you’re able to carry things around easily. You can put your shoes in the bag while in the masjid, and keep the bag in front of you while praying. You can also wear it on your chest while doing tawaf. It will be easier to carry cash in a money belt which you can wear around your waist. You can also put guide books and handouts in your money belt. 

 

 

  1. Is it possible to book a view with a Haram or a Kaaba view room?

Yes – this is possible and this can be arranged for you. Please specify this when making your booking. If you wish to go as part of a group, sometimes our hotels may not have Kaaba or Haram view rooms available. We will then need to book you into a different hotel and other charges may be applicable.

 

 

  1. Will I have a tour guide when performing Umrah and Hajj?

This depends on what package you have selected. If you have chosen a group package, there will always be a minimum of one group leader with you. If you have chosen to go for a tailor-made package, there will not be a tour guide, however you will still go on ziyarats.

 

  1. Is it possible to stop over in another country after performing Umrah?

Yes – this is possible as some airlines offer multi way destination tickets for a small extra charge. We at HST Tours are able to book your accommodation worldwide. Please specify this when making your booking.

 

  1. Who will have my passport during my Hajj pilgrimage?

Your passport will be in your possession until we reach Saudi Arabia. From Saudi Arabia, throughout the trip, the Saudi authorities will be in possession of your passport.

 

  1. Are we given any sort of ID card to carry around with us whilst on our pilgrimage?

Yes, all our passengers are given ID cards to wear around their necks. You should wear your ID card from your departure in the UK until your departure back from Saudi Arabia. Wearing your ID card is important for many reasons, the main obvious reason being for identification purposes. It is also a good idea to get the business cards for the hotels you’re staying in, and putting them into the lanyard too. So, just in case you lose your way, you can present your card and you’ll be able to get directions to your hotel. 

 

  1. Is Qurbani included in your Hajj packages?

Yes – Qurbani is included in the package.

 

  1. How are the men and women accommodated in Mina during Hajj?

Men and women must stay in separate tents in Mina.

 

  1. Is it possible to make arrangement for Hajj Al-Badal through HST Tours?

Yes – these arrangements can be made. Please specify when making your booking