Aqdastravel.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Aqdas Travel positions itself as a comprehensive provider of Hajj and Umrah packages for UK residents. The site highlights various package options, from economy to 5-star, including special Ramadan deals, and emphasizes features like visa assistance, accommodation, flights, and transportation. While the service itself is permissible in Islam and highly encouraged, a strict review of the website’s legitimacy and transparency reveals some areas that could be improved to build greater trust.

Here’s an overall review summary:

Trust Indicators (Online Presence):
- Contact Information: Clear phone numbers (02035041818, 02071678555) and an email address ([email protected]) are provided.
- Physical Address: Missing. A physical office address is a crucial trust signal for a travel agency, especially for significant spiritual journeys like Hajj and Umrah. This absence is a notable red flag.
- ATOL/ABTA Registration: Missing. There is no explicit mention of ATOL or ABTA protection on the homepage. This is a critical legal and consumer protection requirement for UK travel companies offering package holidays, ensuring financial protection if the company ceases trading. Its absence is a serious concern.
- Terms and Conditions/Privacy Policy: Missing from readily visible links on the homepage. While these might exist elsewhere, their prominence on the homepage is essential for transparency.
- Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Mentions “countless satisfied pilgrims” but lacks direct, verifiable testimonials or links to independent review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot).
- Company Registration Details: Missing. No company registration number or registered company name is immediately visible.
Service Offerings:
- Clarity of Packages: Good detail on package types (Economy, 4-star, 5-star, Ramadan), duration (7, 10, 14 days), and inclusions (visa, hotels, flights, transportation).
- Accommodation Proximity: Specifies 200m distance to Masjidil Haram and Nabawi Mosque, which is helpful.
- Guidance and Support: Claims “expert support and guidance” and “highly trained staff” for visa, logistics, and religious guidance.
- Flexibility: Mentions flexible booking, payment options, and instalment plans, which is a positive.

Website Quality & Professionalism:

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Design: Functional but somewhat generic.
Content: Informative and addresses key concerns for pilgrims.
Date Format: Shows “Mon 1446/12/06AH (02-06-2025AD)” which is interesting but not standard for a UK business homepage.

Overall Assessment: While Aqdas Travel offers a highly permissible and spiritually significant service, the lack of critical trust indicators such as ATOL/ABTA protection and a visible physical address significantly undermines its legitimacy and trustworthiness from a consumer protection standpoint. For a journey of this magnitude, financial security and clear legal compliance are paramount. Without these essential elements, booking with this company carries inherent risks.

Best Alternatives for Ethical and Reliable Travel Services (General Travel, focusing on ethical operations and consumer protection):

When it comes to significant travel, especially for spiritual journeys, ensuring financial protection and dealing with reputable, transparent companies is non-negotiable. Here are some categories and examples of well-established, ethical travel providers or platforms in the UK that prioritise consumer safety and often cater to diverse needs, including those seeking spiritual travel:

ABTA & ATOL Protected Travel Agencies
- Key Features: Adherence to strict industry standards, financial protection (if a package holiday is booked), and a code of conduct. These agencies are a gold standard for consumer confidence in the UK.
- Average Price: Varies widely based on destination and package.
- Pros: High level of consumer protection, dispute resolution services, professional advice.
- Cons: Might sometimes be slightly more expensive than unprotected direct bookings (though the security often outweighs this).
Major UK Airlines (e.g., British Airways, Emirates)
- Key Features: Direct flight bookings, often with flexible options. Many airlines also offer package deals, which may include ATOL protection.
- Average Price: Varies by route, class, and booking time.
- Pros: Direct control over flight details, often competitive pricing for flights only, established reputation.
- Cons: Requires separate booking of accommodation and other services, potentially less comprehensive than a full package.
Reputable Hotel Chains (e.g., Premier Inn, Hilton)
- Key Features: Direct hotel bookings, often with loyalty programmes and guaranteed service standards.
- Average Price: Varies significantly by location, brand, and room type.
- Pros: Consistent quality, reliable booking, often good cancellation policies.
- Cons: No flight or transfer inclusion, limited to accommodation.
Well-Known Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) with UK operations (e.g., Expedia UK, Booking.com)
- Key Features: Aggregates flights, hotels, and sometimes car hire; often offers package deals with ATOL protection. Look for explicit ATOL statements.
- Average Price: Generally competitive due to bulk buying power.
- Pros: Convenience of booking multiple components in one place, wide selection, often good deals.
- Cons: Customer service can sometimes be less personal than a traditional travel agent. Always verify ATOL protection for package deals.
Specialist Islamic Travel Agencies (ABTA/ATOL registered)
- Key Features: Expertise in Hajj and Umrah logistics, often including religious guidance, specialised tours, and proximity to holy sites. Crucially, these should always clearly state their ABTA and ATOL protection. Look for agencies explicitly listed on ABTA’s website under Hajj & Umrah.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on package inclusions (star rating of hotels, flight class, duration).
- Pros: Deep understanding of pilgrim needs, comprehensive spiritual support, tailored packages.
- Cons: Limited to specific types of travel, may not always be the cheapest if not carefully compared.
UK Government Foreign Travel Advice Website
- Key Features: Official advice on safety, security, entry requirements, and local laws for countries worldwide. Essential for all travellers.
- Average Price: Free resource.
- Pros: Authoritative, up-to-date, vital for safe travel planning.
- Cons: Not a booking platform, purely informational.
UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL Search
- Key Features: Allows consumers to verify if a travel company holds a valid ATOL licence. This is the ultimate safeguard for flight-inclusive package holidays.
- Average Price: Free resource.
- Pros: Direct verification of financial protection, empowers consumers.
- Cons: Requires the consumer to actively check, not a booking platform.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Table of Contents

Aqdas Travel.co.uk Review & First Look

Based on a direct assessment of its homepage, Aqdas Travel positions itself as a dedicated provider of Hajj and Umrah packages for UK residents. The website clearly outlines its core business: facilitating spiritual journeys to Makkah and Madinah. From a first glance, the site attempts to convey a sense of reliability and comprehensive service, listing various package options from economy to luxury 5-star, catering to different budgets and preferences. They highlight packages for various months and special Ramadan Umrah packages, which is a key draw for many pilgrims.

Initial Impressions of Service Offerings

The site immediately presents information about Hajj and Umrah packages for 2025, offering distinct options based on hotel star ratings (3, 4, and 5-star) and duration (7, 10, 14 nights). This structured approach is helpful for potential customers to quickly grasp the variety of choices. The emphasis on proximity to the holy sites (200m to Masjidil Haram and Nabawi Mosque) is a significant selling point, as easy access to the mosques is a priority for pilgrims.

Transparency and Key Information Accessibility

One of the first things any savvy consumer looks for on a travel website is clear contact information and crucially, regulatory compliance. Aqdas Travel does provide phone numbers and an email address, which is a good start. However, the immediate absence of a physical address or explicit mentions of ATOL or ABTA protection on the homepage is a significant oversight. For such high-value and emotionally significant travel, consumers in the UK expect to see these protective measures prominently displayed. Without them, it raises questions about the financial security and regulatory adherence of the company.

Website Design and User Experience

The website design appears functional and straightforward, prioritising information dissemination over flashy aesthetics. It’s easy enough to navigate through the different package types and monthly options. The use of bullet points and clear headings helps break down the information, making it digestible. However, the sheer volume of repeated package listings (e.g., 3-star Umrah Package (7 Nights) listed multiple times) can feel a bit cluttered and redundant, suggesting an opportunity for more streamlined presentation.

Aqdas Travel.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating any service, especially one as important as pilgrimage travel, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks. For Aqdas Travel, based on its homepage content, there are clear advantages in its service offerings but also significant concerns regarding its operational transparency and consumer protection. Southwoodgardencentre.co.uk Review

Pros of Aqdas Travel.co.uk

Dedicated Hajj & Umrah Focus: The company specialises solely in Hajj and Umrah, suggesting a deep understanding of the unique requirements and spiritual aspects of these journeys. This specialisation can be a major advantage for pilgrims seeking tailored services.
Variety of Packages: Offers a range of packages (Economy, 4-star, 5-star; 7, 10, 14 days) and specific Ramadan Umrah options, catering to diverse budgets and timeframes. This flexibility allows pilgrims to choose what best suits their needs.
Comprehensive Inclusions: Packages are stated to include Umrah Visa, hotels, flights, and transportation, aiming for a hassle-free experience. This ‘all-in-one’ approach is convenient for first-time pilgrims.
Proximity to Holy Sites: Emphasises accommodation within 200m of Masjidil Haram in Makkah and Nabawi Mosque in Madinah, which is a highly desirable feature for pilgrims.
Group and Individual Options: Caters to both individual travellers and groups, with customisation options for families or larger parties, fostering a sense of community for group travellers.
Flexible Payment Plans: Mentions instalment plans for UK residents, making the pilgrimage more financially accessible.
Expert Guidance Claim: States “expert support and guidance” and “highly trained staff” for visa assistance, logistics, accommodation, and religious guidance, which is crucial for a smooth pilgrimage.

Cons of Aqdas Travel.co.uk

Absence of ATOL/ABTA Protection: This is perhaps the most significant drawback. There is no clear, visible mention of ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) or ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) protection on the homepage. For any UK-based travel company selling flight-inclusive package holidays, ATOL protection is legally required and provides financial security to consumers if the company ceases trading. Without this, pilgrims’ investments are at considerable risk.
Lack of Physical Address: No physical office address is provided on the homepage. A tangible business location is a fundamental trust indicator, especially for a travel agency dealing with high-value transactions and spiritual journeys. Its absence can make a company seem less established or legitimate.
Missing Company Registration Details: The homepage does not display any company registration number or clear legal entity name, which is standard practice for legitimate businesses and enhances transparency.
Limited Trust Seals/Certifications: Beyond the basic contact info, there are no visible third-party trust seals, industry awards, or verifiable certifications that would bolster confidence.
No Verifiable Customer Testimonials: While the site mentions “countless satisfied pilgrims,” there are no direct, verifiable testimonials, case studies, or links to independent review platforms (like Trustpilot) to back up these claims.
Redundant Information Presentation: The homepage features multiple identical listings for various packages (e.g., 3-star Umrah Package (7 Nights) appearing several times), which can make the content feel repetitive and less professional.
General Lack of Corporate Information: Beyond the services, there’s little “about us” content, history, or team information that could help build rapport and trust with potential customers.

Aqdas Travel.co.uk Alternatives

Given the critical importance of financial protection and transparency for Hajj and Umrah travel, it’s wise to consider alternatives that offer robust consumer safeguards. When choosing a travel provider for such a significant journey, always prioritise companies that explicitly state their ABTA and ATOL protection.

Here are some categories of highly reliable and ethical alternatives, ensuring your spiritual journey is protected:

1. ABTA & ATOL Registered Hajj & Umrah Specialists

Key Features: These are dedicated agencies that specialise in Hajj and Umrah, but crucially, they are registered with ABTA and hold an ATOL licence. This means your money is protected if the company goes out of business. They offer comprehensive packages, religious guidance, and often have decades of experience.
Pros: Maximum consumer protection, deep expertise in pilgrimage logistics, tailored services, established reputation, often provide scholars and guides.
Cons: Can sometimes be pricier due to the comprehensive services and protection.
Example: You can find a comprehensive list of ABTA and ATOL protected Hajj & Umrah operators directly on the ABTA website. It is highly recommended to check this official source.

2. Major UK Tour Operators with Hajj & Umrah Divisions

Key Features: Some larger, well-established UK tour operators have specific divisions or partnerships dedicated to Hajj and Umrah. They leverage their extensive network and infrastructure to offer competitive packages while providing the backing of a large, reputable company. These will also be ATOL protected.
Pros: Strong financial backing, established customer service systems, often good flight and hotel relationships.
Cons: May not always offer the same level of intimate religious guidance as smaller, dedicated specialists.
Example: While not always publicly advertised on their main sites, it’s worth checking with major operators like TUI or Thomas Cook if they have specialist Hajj/Umrah partners, or searching for their specific pilgrimage offerings.

3. Direct Airlines Offering Flight & Hotel Packages (ATOL Protected)

Key Features: Airlines like Emirates, Saudi Arabian Airlines, or British Airways often offer flight-and-hotel packages. When these packages are bundled together, they should be ATOL protected by the airline’s package holiday arm.
Pros: Direct booking with the airline, potentially good deals on flights, often a large selection of hotels.
Cons: May require more self-organisation for ground transportation and religious guidance.
Example: Check the “Holidays” or “Packages” section on websites like Emirates or Saudi Arabian Airlines.

4. Halal-Friendly Travel Platforms with Verified Providers

Key Features: These platforms curate travel options specifically catering to Muslim travellers, often including halal food options, prayer facilities, and family-friendly environments. They typically partner with various providers, and it’s essential to ensure these underlying providers are ATOL/ABTA protected.
Pros: Tailored to Muslim needs, broader selection of destinations beyond just pilgrimage.
Cons: Requires careful verification of the protection offered by the actual travel provider you book through the platform.
Example: While not exclusively Hajj/Umrah focused, platforms like HalalBooking.com offer a wide range of halal-friendly travel options, and for package deals, they generally work with ATOL-protected partners. Always confirm the specific protection for your booking.

5. Independent Travel Agents (Registered & Protected)

Key Features: Many local, independent travel agents are part of consortia (like Hays Travel) that offer ABTA and ATOL protection. They provide personalised service and can tailor packages to your exact specifications.
Pros: Highly personalised service, expert advice, often a single point of contact for your entire trip.
Cons: Can be more time-consuming to find the right agent; always verify their individual or consortium’s protection.
Example: Search for local, independent travel agents in your area via the ABTA website’s “Find a Travel Agent” tool and confirm their registration status.

When embarking on a spiritual journey of this magnitude, the peace of mind that comes from robust consumer protection is invaluable. Always look for explicit ATOL and ABTA logos and verification of their license numbers.

How to Verify Aqdas Travel.co.uk’s Legitimacy (and any other travel agent)

Verifying the legitimacy of a travel company, especially one offering high-value spiritual journeys like Hajj and Umrah, is paramount. Based on the Aqdas Travel website, several key indicators are missing, making a strong case for rigorous due diligence. Here’s a breakdown of how to verify them and what to look for with any travel agent:

Checking for ATOL Protection

The most critical aspect for any flight-inclusive package holiday sold in the UK is ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) protection. This scheme, run by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), protects you if your travel company goes out of business. Towerhousewares.co.uk Review

What to Look For: A prominent ATOL logo on the website, usually in the footer or on booking pages, along with a unique ATOL licence number (e.g., ATOL 12345).
How to Verify: Even if they display it, always double-check by using the official CAA ATOL search tool. Enter the company name or the ATOL number. If Aqdas Travel claims ATOL protection, their name should appear on this list with a valid licence. If they are not listed, they are not ATOL protected.

Checking for ABTA Membership

While not as legally binding for financial protection as ATOL for flight packages, ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) membership signifies adherence to a code of conduct and provides a complaints and arbitration service.

What to Look For: The ABTA logo and a membership number.
How to Verify: Use the ABTA “Check a Member” tool. Enter the company name or membership number.

Physical Address and Contact Information

Legitimate businesses should have a clear, verifiable physical address.

What to Look For: A full registered office address, not just a P.O. box, typically found in the footer, “Contact Us” page, or “About Us” section.
How to Verify: You can cross-reference the address with Companies House UK records if the company is registered. Google Maps can also give an indication of the type of premises. Aqdas Travel provides phone numbers and email but lacks a physical address on its homepage, which is a significant point of concern.

Company Registration Details

All limited companies in the UK are registered with Companies House.

What to Look For: A company registration number and the full registered company name.
How to Verify: Search for the company name or registration number on the Companies House website. This will show their registration status, filing history, and directors. If Aqdas Travel is a limited company, these details should be easily accessible.

Online Reviews and Reputation

Independent reviews offer insights into other customers’ experiences.

What to Look For: Links to reputable, independent review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or specific Hajj/Umrah forums.
How to Verify: Search for “Aqdas Travel reviews” on Google. Look at the volume, recency, and sentiment of reviews. Be wary of websites with only glowing reviews or no reviews at all. If they mention “countless satisfied pilgrims” but offer no external links, this is a red flag.

Terms and Conditions / Privacy Policy

These legal documents are crucial for understanding your rights, the company’s responsibilities, and how your data is handled. Jkattire.co.uk Review

What to Look For: Clear links to “Terms and Conditions,” “Booking Conditions,” and “Privacy Policy” on the homepage or in the footer.
How to Verify: Read them! Ensure they are comprehensive and clear. The absence or inaccessibility of these documents on the homepage is a major transparency issue.

In summary: While Aqdas Travel focuses on a permissible and important service, the absence of ATOL/ABTA protection details, a physical address, and company registration information on its homepage makes it difficult to verify its legitimacy and financial security. For a journey of this spiritual and financial magnitude, pilgrims should insist on absolute transparency and verifiable consumer protection from their chosen travel provider.

How to Protect Your Pilgrimage Booking

Booking a Hajj or Umrah trip is a significant financial and spiritual commitment. Ensuring your booking is protected is not just about peace of mind; it’s about safeguarding your hard-earned money and ensuring your journey proceeds as planned, or that you’re compensated if it doesn’t. Given the general lack of transparency in some corners of the travel industry, taking proactive steps is vital.

Understanding ATOL and ABTA Protection

ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing): This is your primary shield for flight-inclusive package holidays originating in the UK. Administered by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), ATOL ensures that if your travel company collapses, you won’t be stranded abroad and will receive a refund for elements of your trip that haven’t yet commenced. Always check for the ATOL logo and licence number, and verify it on the CAA website. As of 2023, around 20 million holidaymakers per year benefit from ATOL protection.
ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents): ABTA membership means the travel company has agreed to abide by ABTA’s Code of Conduct, which sets high standards for service. ABTA also provides a scheme for arbitration if you have a complaint, and offers financial protection for non-flight package holidays. While not the same as ATOL, it adds another layer of consumer confidence.

Payment Methods: Opt for Credit Card

Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act: If you pay for goods or services (including holidays) costing over £100 and up to £30,000 using a credit card, the credit card company is jointly and severally liable with the travel provider if something goes wrong (e.g., the company goes bust, or services aren’t delivered as promised). This provides a powerful layer of protection that debit card payments generally do not.
Chargeback Scheme: If you pay by debit card or credit card for transactions under £100 (or if Section 75 doesn’t apply), you may still be able to claim a chargeback through your bank. This is a voluntary scheme by card providers, not a legal right, but it can often recover funds.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Beyond Company Failure: While ATOL protects against company collapse, comprehensive travel insurance covers a much wider range of eventualities:
- Medical Emergencies: Overseas medical treatment can be incredibly expensive.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Due to illness, bereavement, or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Lost or Stolen Luggage: Reimbursement for your belongings.
- Personal Liability: Coverage if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
Specific Hajj/Umrah Coverage: Look for policies that specifically cover the unique aspects of pilgrimage, such as medical emergencies in Saudi Arabia, or disruption to the spiritual itinerary. Some policies even offer coverage for missed prayers or inability to perform rituals due to covered events.

Detailed Documentation

Booking Confirmation: Ensure you receive a detailed booking confirmation that outlines all inclusions (flights, hotels, transfers, visas, religious guidance), dates, and costs.
Invoices: Always get a clear invoice for all payments made.
Visa Proof: Keep copies of all visa applications and approvals.
ATOL Certificate: For ATOL-protected bookings, you should receive an ATOL Certificate. This legally required document confirms your protection and details what parts of your trip are covered. Do not proceed with a booking if you do not receive this certificate for a flight-inclusive package.

Research and Reviews

Independent Review Platforms: Look for reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and specific Hajj/Umrah forums. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback and how the company responds.
Word-of-Mouth: Seek recommendations from friends, family, and community members who have travelled recently with specific agencies. Often, personal experiences provide the most reliable insights.

By diligently following these steps, pilgrims can significantly reduce their risk and embark on their spiritual journey with greater peace of mind, knowing their investment is secure.

Aqdas Travel.co.uk Features (Claimed)

Based on the information presented on the Aqdas Travel website, the company outlines a range of features designed to facilitate the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage for UK residents. These features aim to provide a comprehensive and hassle-free experience, covering various aspects of the journey from planning to execution.

Package Customisation and Options

Aqdas Travel highlights its ability to cater to diverse needs and budgets. Fireprotectionshop.co.uk Review

Tiered Packages: Offers Economy, 4-star, and 5-star options, indicating a range of accommodation and service levels.
Flexible Durations: Provides 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day Umrah packages, allowing pilgrims to choose a duration that fits their schedule.
Ramadan Umrah Packages: Specifically offers packages for the holy month of Ramadan, which is a highly sought-after period for Umrah due to its increased spiritual reward.
Group and Individual Travel: Caters to both individual travellers and groups, with the option for customised group packages for families or fellow pilgrims, emphasizing companionship and shared experiences.

All-Inclusive Services

The website states that their packages are designed to be comprehensive, covering key logistical components of the pilgrimage.

Umrah Visa: Assumes responsibility for arranging the necessary Umrah visa.
Flights: Includes flight bookings as part of the package.
Accommodation: Arranges hotel stays in Makkah and Madinah, specifically mentioning properties within 200m of Masjidil Haram and Nabawi Mosque, which is a significant convenience for pilgrims.
Transportation: Provides transportation services within Saudi Arabia, ensuring seamless transfers between airports, hotels, and sacred sites.

Support and Guidance

Aqdas Travel claims to offer extensive support throughout the pilgrimage.

Expert Guidance: Professes to have a “knowledgeable and expert team” dedicated to providing guidance on all aspects of the journey, from visa assistance to religious rituals.
Highly Trained Staff: Mentions “highly trained staff” available at each step to assist pilgrims, from departure to return.
On-Ground Assistance: Claims company guides will be with pilgrims to assist with arrangements and guide them to various places.

Financial Flexibility and Booking Ease

The company aims to make the booking process convenient and accessible.

Flexible Payment Options: Provides instalment plans to make the pilgrimage financially manageable for UK residents.
User-Friendly Online Platform: States a user-friendly online platform for browsing and selecting preferred packages.
Departures from Multiple UK Cities: Offers services for pilgrims departing from various UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, and Edinburgh.

Spiritual Enrichment and Access

Beyond the logistics, Aqdas Travel touches upon enhancing the spiritual experience.

Access to Sacred Sites: Promises specific access to Masjid Al Haram in Makkah, Masjid-e-Nabvi in Madinah, and other significant landmarks.
Additional Spiritual Activities: Mentions providing “additional spiritual activities” such as Islamic workshops, religious lectures, and community services, to enrich the pilgrim’s understanding and connection with Islam.

These features, if delivered as claimed, would indeed offer a comprehensive and supportive framework for undertaking Hajj and Umrah. However, as noted previously, the absence of key legitimacy indicators like ATOL/ABTA protection makes it difficult to fully assess the reliability of these claimed features. Barnshenn.co.uk Review

Aqdas Travel.co.uk Pricing

While Aqdas Travel’s homepage showcases a variety of package options, it adheres to a common practice in the Hajj and Umrah industry: it does not display explicit pricing for its packages. Instead, the website encourages potential pilgrims to “Inquiry Call” or “contact us” to “get the most reasonable Umrah and Hajj options.”

General Pricing Structure Indicated

Tiered Options: The website clearly states the availability of “Economy, 4-star, and 5-star options,” as well as “luxury Hajj packages to cheap Hajj packages.” This indicates that pricing is segmented based on the quality of accommodation, services, and potentially flight class.
Duration-Based Pricing: Packages are offered for 7, 10, and 14 nights, suggesting that longer stays will correspond to higher prices.
Seasonal Pricing: The emphasis on “Ramadan Umrah Packages” implies a higher price point for travel during this peak, highly sought-after period, compared to off-peak months. The availability of packages for various months (January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November, December) also hints at seasonal fluctuations in cost.
Inclusions: The website mentions that packages “include Umrah Visa, hotels, flights and transportation,” meaning the quoted price (upon inquiry) will likely cover these core components.

Why No Direct Pricing?

There are several reasons why travel agencies, particularly for specialised trips like Hajj and Umrah, often opt not to display direct prices on their public websites:

Dynamic Pricing: Flight and hotel prices are highly dynamic. They change constantly based on demand, availability, time of booking, and global events. A fixed price list would quickly become outdated.
Customisation: Pilgrimage packages are often highly customisable. The exact flight routes, specific hotel choices, room configurations (e.g., quad, triple, double), and inclusion of specific activities can vary significantly, making a one-size-fits-all price difficult.
Market Fluctuations: Currency exchange rates, visa fees, and local service costs in Saudi Arabia can fluctuate, impacting the final package price.
Competitive Reasons: Travel agencies often prefer to provide quotes upon inquiry to engage directly with potential customers and tailor offers based on individual needs and budget, rather than displaying a static price that might not be competitive for every single scenario.
Personalised Service: Encouraging direct contact allows the agency to understand the pilgrim’s specific requirements, answer questions, and build a relationship before offering a quote.

How to Obtain Pricing from Aqdas Travel.co.uk

To get a price from Aqdas Travel, you would need to:

Call them directly: Use the phone numbers provided (02035041818, 02071678555).
Email them: Use [email protected].
Use the “Inquiry Call” or “Quick Call” prompts on the website.

When making an inquiry, be prepared to provide details such as your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, desired package tier (3-star, 4-star, 5-star), and duration.

Recommendation for Consumers: While understandable for the reasons above, the lack of transparent pricing on the homepage means consumers must invest time in an inquiry to understand costs. When inquiring, always ensure you receive a detailed, itemised quote and clarification on all inclusions and exclusions before committing to any booking. And critically, always ensure the quoted package is ATOL protected before making any payment. Cksofasinc.co.uk Review

How to Cancel Aqdas Travel.co.uk Bookings (Based on General Industry Practice)

Since Aqdas Travel.co.uk does not explicitly provide cancellation policies or terms and conditions on its homepage, any discussion on how to cancel a booking must be based on general industry practice for package holidays and spiritual travel, combined with best consumer advice. It is imperative that before booking, you obtain and thoroughly review Aqdas Travel’s specific terms and conditions.

General Steps to Cancel a Travel Booking:

Review the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs): This is the absolute first step. Before you even think about cancelling, you must review the T&Cs provided by Aqdas Travel at the time of booking. These documents legally outline your rights and obligations, including cancellation fees, refund eligibility, and deadlines. Look for clauses related to:
- Cancellation charges (often tiered based on how close to departure you cancel).
- Non-refundable deposits.
- Force majeure clauses (e.g., what happens if travel is impossible due to unforeseen events like pandemics or natural disasters).
- Change fees vs. cancellation fees.
Contact Aqdas Travel Directly and Immediately: As soon as you know you need to cancel, contact them using the provided phone numbers (02035041818, 02071678555) or email ([email protected]).
- Always follow up a phone call with an email to create a written record of your cancellation request, including the date and time.
- State clearly that you wish to cancel your booking and provide your booking reference number and all relevant details.
Understand Cancellation Charges: Most travel agencies impose cancellation charges. These typically increase the closer you get to your departure date because the agency will have already paid for flights, hotels, and other services on your behalf.
- Examples of tiered charges:
  - More than 60 days before departure: Loss of deposit only.
  - 30-59 days before departure: 50% of the total cost.
  - 15-29 days before departure: 75% of the total cost.
  - Less than 14 days before departure or no-show: 100% of the total cost.
- It is crucial to be aware of these potential costs.
Check Your Travel Insurance Policy: Your comprehensive travel insurance (which you should always have for a trip of this nature) might cover your cancellation if the reason for cancellation is covered by your policy (e.g., serious illness, bereavement, redundancy). Gymmaster.co.uk Review
- Contact your insurance provider with your policy number and details of your situation. They will require supporting documentation (e.g., medical certificates).
Seek Confirmation: Ensure you receive written confirmation from Aqdas Travel that your booking has been cancelled and details of any refunds due or cancellation charges applied. Keep this confirmation for your records.

Important Considerations:

Verbal vs. Written: Always get critical agreements, especially cancellations and refunds, in writing.
Disputes: If you believe you have been unfairly charged, or if the company is unresponsive, you would need to refer to their T&Cs and potentially approach ABTA (if they are a member) or the CAA (if your ATOL protection is valid) for guidance or dispute resolution. Since Aqdas Travel’s ATOL/ABTA status is unclear from their homepage, avenues for official dispute resolution might be limited unless verified otherwise.
Force Majeure: In extraordinary circumstances (e.g., pandemics, significant political unrest making travel unsafe), travel advisories from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or official Saudi Arabian bodies may trigger special cancellation or refund policies. Always check FCDO advice for your destination.

Without explicit T&Cs on their website, exercising your right to cancel with Aqdas Travel.co.uk would rely heavily on their internal policies and potentially your credit card’s Section 75 protection if applicable. This lack of transparency is a significant concern for consumers.

FAQ

What is Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

Aqdas Travel.co.uk is a UK-based travel agency that specialises in offering Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage packages to Makkah and Madinah.

What types of packages does Aqdas Travel.co.uk offer?

Aqdas Travel.co.uk offers various packages including Economy, 4-star, and 5-star options, as well as special Ramadan Umrah packages, with durations of 7, 10, and 14 nights.

What is typically included in Aqdas Travel.co.uk packages?

Packages usually include Umrah Visa, flights, hotel accommodation near the holy sites (e.g., 200m from Masjidil Haram), and transportation within Saudi Arabia. Aoskitchens.co.uk Review

Does Aqdas Travel.co.uk offer Hajj packages for 2025?

Yes, the website mentions offering Hajj packages for 2025, alongside their Umrah package offerings.

Are there group travel options available with Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

Yes, Aqdas Travel.co.uk states that it provides customised Umrah packages for families or groups, encouraging group companionship.

Does Aqdas Travel.co.uk offer flexible payment plans?

Yes, the website indicates that they provide flexible payment options, including instalment plans, for residents of the United Kingdom.

What cities in the UK does Aqdas Travel.co.uk serve?

Aqdas Travel.co.uk claims to serve pilgrims from various UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, and Edinburgh.

How close are the hotels in Aqdas Travel.co.uk packages to the holy sites?

The website specifies that their accommodation options in Makkah and Madinah are typically located within 200 metres of Masjidil Haram and Nabawi Mosque, respectively. Vibrantenergymatters.co.uk Review

Does Aqdas Travel.co.uk provide religious guidance during the pilgrimage?

Aqdas Travel.co.uk claims to offer expert support and guidance throughout the journey, including religious guidance from their team and guides.

Can I book a tailored Umrah package based on my budget with Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

Yes, the company states they offer packages designed to cater to various budgets, from budget-friendly to luxury options, allowing customisation.

How can I get a price quote from Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

The website encourages potential customers to call them directly or send an email to obtain specific pricing for their packages.

Is Aqdas Travel.co.uk ATOL protected?

The homepage of Aqdas Travel.co.uk does not explicitly display or mention ATOL protection. It is crucial for customers to verify any ATOL licence directly with the CAA.

Is Aqdas Travel.co.uk ABTA registered?

The homepage of Aqdas Travel.co.uk does not explicitly display or mention ABTA registration. Customers should verify any ABTA membership directly with ABTA. Pianobeats.co.uk Review

Does Aqdas Travel.co.uk have a physical office address listed on their website?

No, a physical office address is not prominently displayed on the homepage of Aqdas Travel.co.uk. Only phone numbers and an email address are provided.

How can I verify the legitimacy of Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

You should check for their ATOL licence number on the CAA website, verify any ABTA membership on the ABTA website, look for a registered company address, and search for independent customer reviews.

What should I do if I need to cancel my booking with Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

You should immediately review the terms and conditions provided at the time of booking, contact Aqdas Travel directly by phone and follow up with an email to request cancellation, and check your travel insurance policy for coverage.

Does Aqdas Travel.co.uk offer additional spiritual activities?

Yes, the website mentions providing additional spiritual activities such as Islamic workshops, religious lectures, and community service projects to enrich the pilgrimage experience.

What documentation is required for the Umrah visa for UK residents according to Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

The website states that UK citizens need to provide verification of Saudi accommodation, confirmed flight details, and passport details for the visa application. Sell.ur.co.uk Review

Can a female travel alone for Umrah with Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

Aqdas Travel.co.uk states that if a female is travelling alone without a Mahram, she should be above 45 years of age, adhering to common Saudi visa regulations.

What is the typical visa processing time mentioned by Aqdas Travel.co.uk?

The website states that a visa is typically given within five working days upon verification and acceptance of submitted applications, with an urgent service available upon special request.